Statistics & Data Science

At UCD, the Statistics & Data Science degree subject goes beyond traditional analytics. Students develop a robust grounding in statistical modeling and mathematical theory, combined with practical experience in computational methods, programming, data analysis, and AI-related techniques. Through the integration of theoretical principles, computational tools, and real-world applications, graduates are equipped not only to apply existing analytical approaches but also to develop innovative data-driven solutions and AI technologies.

Information on pathways, internships and careers is available in the Undergraduate Courses Brochure (PDF).

Statistics & Data Science is offered through the Mathematics stream of the common entry Science course. After meeting the requirements for their preferred stream(s) in first year and studying at least two subjects in second year, students submit their degree subject preferences. While we aim to accommodate student preferences, places can be competitive.

This outlines sample modules for a Statistics & Data Science student at UCD.

First Year

Scientific Enquiry • Introduction to Applied & Computational Mathematics • Calculus in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences • Applications of Differential Equations • Linear Algebra in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences • Statistical Modelling • Mathematical Analysis • Numbers & Functions • Option Modules • Elective Module

Second Year

Current Statistics modules available in Second Year. All modules are subject to change and are not guaranteed.

Computational Science • Calculus of Several Variables • Linear Algebra in the Mathematical Sciences • Introduction to Probability • Modern Regression Analysis • Inferential Statistics • Data Programming with R • + modules for 1 other Science Subject • Elective Modules

Current Statistics modules available in Third and Fourth Year. All modules are subject to change and are not guaranteed.

Third Year

Time Series Analysis • Models - Survival • Models - Stochastic Models • Introduction to Bayesian Analysis • Design of Experiments • Advanced Predictive Analytics • Statistical Machine Learning • Nonparametric Statistics • Option Modules including Actuarial Statistics and Data Programming with Python • Elective Modules

Fourth Year

Research Project in Statistics and Data Science • Bayesian Data Analysis • Multivariate Data Analysis • Survey Sampling • Applied Matrix Theory • Models - Survival • Monte Carlo Inference • Option Modules including Machine Learning & AI and Statistical Network Analysis

Students may apply to study abroad for a trimester in third year in partner institutions internationally.

This degree equips you with the expertise to unlock insights from complex data and drive critical decision-making across a wide range of sectors and provides an excellent foundation for further study, opening pathways to a variety of taught and research postgraduate programmes in statistics, data science, artificial intelligence, and related fields. Graduates are highly sought after in industries such as healthcare, business, biosciences, finance, climate science, economics, sports analytics, education, and government.

Students have the opportunity to complete a Professional Placement module worth 5 credits. This module provides students with an opportunity to undertake a placement in industry (6-10 weeks) in the summer following third year. Students in recent years have completed internships in KPMG, PwC, EY and American Express.

Placements are secured on a competitive basis and are subject to change each year.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET


• Open Learning Entry Route


• Mature Entry Route


• DARE Entry Route


• HEAR Entry Route


• University Access

UCD Science Office

You can contact the UCD Science Office in the following ways:

• Submit your query using our dedicated Contact Form.


• Drop into the office in the UCD O'Brien Centre for Science, Science East, Room E1.09. Our office opening hours are 10am to 4pm (during term time).

UCD gave me the flexibility to see what type of Maths subject I enjoyed the most. I was able to try Physics, Mathematics, Statistics and even Chemistry – before deciding to major in Statistics. I love getting to see Mathematics applied to real-world data and establishing patterns and reasonings behind different outcomes. I am also Secretary of the Trampoline Club, which I joined back in first year and have made some of my closest friends through the club! In my summer of third year, I completed an internship in data analytics and after I graduated, I started work as a data analyst.

Emer, Graduate