Statistician : Entry requirements

Graduates who have a degree with a quantitative component may have an advantage but those of any discipline are accepted. People from other professions can also apply to work in medical statistics usually after they have taken a Masters degree in the subject.

Examples of quantitative degrees include:

• mathematics;
• economics;
• operational research;
• life or medical science;
• business-related subjects;
• social and political sciences;
• psychology;
• geography.

Competition for statistician posts in the Civil Service can be intense. The Government Statistical Service (GSS) operates three schemes: a Fast Stream Assistant Statistician Recruitment Scheme; a mainstream statistical officer scheme; and a temporary statistical officer scheme on a fixed-term contract. Applicants to these schemes are expected to have a first or second class honours degree in a numerate subject. However, those who do not have a degree but can demonstrate at least two years' experience in a statistics-related field plus continuous professional development (CPD) leading to relevant qualifications, can also apply to the GSS statistical officer (SO) posts.

The Government Statistical Service (GSS) has imposed a ban on the recruitment of statistical officers (SOs) and temporary statistical officers (TSOs), although applications for TSOs will be filed away for consideration when the recruitment freeze is lifted. It is unknown how long the ban will be in force but it looks set to be for the foreseeable future. Recruitment to the Fast Stream Assistant Statistician Recruitment Scheme continues to operate as normal.

An MSc in medical statistics may offer a competitive advantage. In the National Health Service (NHS) the availability is often affected by changes in government priorities. People holding MSc degrees in statistics are also much sought after by employers in the pharmaceutical industry. The industry does recruit at degree level, but companies often then expect the employee to obtain an MSc by part-time study or distance learning and may sometimes sponsor the course. Some MSc courses are extension courses, designed for graduates who wish to specialise in particular areas. Others are conversion courses, designed for graduates of other disciplines, as well as people from other professions, as a means of gaining entry to the profession. Holders of PhDs are also in great demand and a PhD would often be necessary in university teaching and research roles.

Alternative qualifications such as a foundation degree, HND or Graduate Diploma in Statistics awarded by the Royal Statistical Society (RSS) may be acceptable.

It is also possible to qualify for entry through the RSS qualifications: the Ordinary Certificate; the Higher Certificate; and the Graduate Diploma, which is the equivalent of a good honours degree. Candidates who successfully complete the Graduate Diploma are automatically eligible for the status of graduate statistician and after five years' suitable professional training and experience they may apply to be a chartered statistician. These examinations may be of particular interest to people seeking a career change.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• computer literacy;
• analytical ability and communication skills;
• a clear understanding of statistical terms and concepts;
• an ability to work alone as well as in teams;
• the ability to work with data and people at all levels within a range of organisations.

The choice of final year dissertation can be significant. These projects can provide a way of making useful contacts within the profession and acquiring knowledge, which would be of great value in the labour market.

Joining the RSS or Statisticians in the Pharmaceutical Industry (PSI) provides access to events, training, and informative newsletters featuring job listings.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.