(SE) Orebro University School of Business

The programme is focused on the analysis of data with a foundation in statistical theory and gives the students the tools needed to find patterns in large and complex data sets, or for more accurate statistical modelling with the aim of identifying causal relationships. The students get a good foundation for a career in data science and as a statistician where they are well equipped to drive the design of statistical surveys and make their own contributions to statistical method development. The programme is also well-suited for students interested in pursuing a PhD in statistics. 

The training emphasizes the ability to communicate and collaborate, partly to identify the organization's information needs and the prerequisites for the statistical survey or data analysis, partly to be able to clearly communicate the selected approaches and results. 

The programme of study is two years long and leads to a master’s degree. The programme is delivered during four semesters each consisting of 30 ECTS credits of course work. During the first fall semester, the foundation is laid with courses in data visualization, programming in languages such as R and Python, database management and courses in mathematics, probability theory and inference theory. The second (spring) semester begins with courses in econometrics and computational statistics and ends with a thesis (15 ECTS credits).

In the second year, the fall semester consists of courses in machine learning, Bayesian statistics and survey sampling theory as well as 15 ECTS credits of optional courses. During the fourth semester, there is an opportunity to do an internship, alternatively, optional courses are taken. The semester ends with a second thesis (15 ECTS credits). A European Master in Official Statistics can be obtained by taking courses aimed towards official statistics during the third semester, conducting an internship at Statistics Sweden or another statistical agency during the fourth semester and writing a thesis that is relevant to the production of official statistics.