Statistics

PGDip

  • Entry year 2025
  • Duration Full time 9 months, Part time 2 - 3 years

Overview

Data analysis and statistical models support many aspects of the modern world, from science and technology to finance and business. They allow us to overcome scientific, industrial and social problems and an advanced understanding of them is beneficial in many careers.

Our PGDip in Statistics follows the same taught course structure as our Royal Statistical Society (RSS) accredited master's programme, but without the dissertation component that comprises the final part of the master's year. As with the master's programme, the PGDip combines a blend of theoretical study with real-world application. You will develop advanced statistical skills and knowledge, while having the opportunity to put what you learn into practice and gain valuable, real-world experience. In addition to acquiring advanced technical knowledge, you will also develop project management and communication skills.

A carefully structured approach will enable you to develop and strengthen your essential core skills in both classical and modern statistical methods and inference before progressing to the ore advanced and specialist modules. The specialist modules cover a diverse range of statistical topics reflecting both areas of Departmental research expertise and the requirements of leading employers of statisticians. You will be supported in selecting those specialist modules that best reflect your own interests and career aspirations.

Alongside the technical modules, you will undertake a module to advance key transferable skills in programming and communications. Programming and the confident use of statistical software enables the analysis of large and complex data sets. Communication is an essential skill for all statisticians, who must be able to engage in dialogue with members of the project team, stakeholders and end-users.

You will be based in the School of Mathematical Sciences, where you will have access to specialist software and equipment. You will have the opportunity to engage with academic staff members, all of whom are active statistical researchers, and to participate in departmental research colloquia and seminars should you choose to do so.

Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in Mathematics or Statistics.

We may also consider non-standard applications where you have studied a degree in other quantitative subjects that include courses in probability, statistics, linear algebra, and calculus, or you have a 2:2 honours degree equivalent result combined with extensive relevant experience.

You should clearly be able to demonstrate how your skills have prepared you for relevant discussions and assessments during postgraduate study.

If you have studied outside of the UK, we would advise you to check our list of international qualifications before submitting your application.

English Language Requirements

We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.

We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications.

If your score is below our requirements, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language programmes.

Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email pgadmissions@lancaster.ac.uk

Pre-master’s programmes

Delivered in partnership with INTO Lancaster University, our one-year tailored pre-master’s pathways are designed to improve your subject knowledge and English language skills to the level required by a range of Lancaster University master’s degrees. Visit the INTO Lancaster University website for more details and a list of eligible degrees you can progress onto.

Course structure

You will study a range of modules as part of your course, some examples of which are listed below.

Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, but changes may be necessary, for example as a result of student feedback, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes, and new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.

Core

core modules accordion

Optional

optional modules accordion

Fees and funding

Location Full Time (per year) Part Time (per year)
Home £9,420 £4,710
International £20,200 £10,100

General fees and funding information

Additional fees and funding information accordion

Scholarships and bursaries

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status and course. You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.

If you're considering postgraduate research you should look at our funded PhD opportunities.

Scheme Based on Amount
Based on {{item.eligibility_basis}} Amount {{item.amount}}

We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries.

Postgraduate digital open event - 6 November

Join us online and let us tell you about postgraduate study at Lancaster and how to apply.

Book our online event
 A student sitting in a library using their laptop

Important Information

The information on this site relates primarily to 2025/2026 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information.

Our Students’ Charter

We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. View our Charter and other policies.