Computational Statistics and Machine Learning MSc

About this programme

The Computational Statistics and Machine Learning MSc brings together vital knowledge in both subjects, enabling you to thrive as an expert in a data-rich world. With opportunities to study modules run in collaboration with the esteemed Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit and Google DeepMind, this is an exceptional place to build your expertise.

While machine learning is continually changing the face of industrial and societal processes, statistics enables machine learning practitioners to analyse, visualise and measure data. 

This programme provides you with an opportunity to gain a deep skill set in both fields to carve out a successful future in further research or as an industry practitioner.

Run in collaboration with UCL Statistical Science, you will benefit from world-class research and teaching talents from across computer science and statistics. You will study a range of modules that enable you to gain an extensive understanding of key elements of machine learning, computer science and statistics.

Why study this programme?

This programme offers you the following benefits and opportunities. 

• Recognition from a top-ranked university: UCL is consistently ranked among the best universities globally (ranked 9th in the QS World University Rankings 2026), providing you with a prestigious qualification that is highly regarded by employers worldwide.
• High-quality education from leading experts: Learn from world-renowned academics who are at the forefront of computer science innovation. UCL Computer Science is recognised for its research excellence, ranked first in England and second in the UK for research power in Computer Science and Informatics in the UK’s most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
• Excellent research and industry links: Coupled with the internationally renowned Gatsby Computational Neuroscience and the Machine Learning Unit, and UCL Statistical Science, the programme draws on world-class research and teaching talents. The centre has excellent links with world-leading companies in internet technology, finance, and related information areas.
• Entrepreneurial and industry partnerships: The programme team takes an experimental approach to their subject, enjoying the challenge and opportunity of entrepreneurial partnerships and placing high value on our extensive range of industrial collaborations.
• Enhanced research skills: The research-based components of the programme will equip you with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, preparing you for potential doctoral studies or research-intensive roles in industry.
• Real-world experience through project work: Apply your knowledge and skills in practical settings with a substantial research or engineering project. Many of these projects are conducted in collaboration with industry partners, giving you valuable hands-on experience and industry insights.
• Strong employability with high employment rates and starting salaries: Our graduates are highly sought after in the job market, thanks to UCL’s strong reputation and the skills gained during the programme. You’ll be well-prepared to enter a variety of high-demand roles in machine learning.

Modules 

Compulsory modules

• Supervised Learning
• MSc Computational Statistics and Machine Learning Project
• Statistical Models and Data Analysis

Optional modules may include: 

• Graphical Models
• Probabilistic and Unsupervised Learning
• Open-Endedness and General Intelligence
• Applied Machine Learning
• Advanced Topics in Machine Learning
• Approximate Inference and Learning in Probabilistic Models
• Statistical Natural Language Processing
• Reinforcement Learning
• Machine Vision
• Machine Learning Seminar
• Bayesian Deep Learning
• Applied Deep Learning

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment, and module content and availability are subject to change.

Who is the programme for?

Entry requirements

This programme is for you if:

• You have a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree (or international qualification of an equivalent standard) in a highly quantitative subject such as computer science, mathematics, electrical engineering, or physical sciences.
• Additionally, you must be comfortable with undergraduate level mathematics, in particular statistics at an intermediate undergraduate level, and be proficient in linear algebra and multivariable calculus. Relevant work experience may also be considered.

Employability 

You will gain a variety of practical and theoretical skills in machine learning and computational statistics, providing multiple options in either research or industry.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in research or academia, the research project forms a useful step towards undertaking a PhD. You will build on your research skills and connections with academics in the field.

Computer Science Postgraduate students earned on average £53,000* per year.  

(*This figure is the mean salary taken from the most recent aggregated Graduate Outcomes Data (2018-2023) for postgraduate taught graduates from UCL Computer Science.)

Career destinations

Graduates from the department’s machine learning programmes have been employed at major tech and finance companies. Others have gone on to pursue further study, for example, at the universities of Cambridge, Helsinki, Chicago, and UCL, or a career in academia.

Future Events 

We do not have any further open events planned for the academic year of 2025/26. 

We plan to run both in-person and online events next academic year. If you would like to receive information about these events and general information from UCL Computer Science, please complete the form below. 

 To see full information about this programme, including its structure, detailed module descriptions, fees and funding, full entry requirements and more, please visit the UCL Graduate Prospectus