Make sense of information

Statistics teaches us how to collect and analyse data to draw conclusions and make decisions in our information-rich world.

Statistics is used in many different fields—from the financial world to marketing campaigns and government policy.

You’ll study both the theory and practice of Statistics to get the knowledge and skills you need to use it in the workplace.

Choose your study path

You can choose Statistics as your major as part of a Bachelor of Science. Statistics can also be useful as a second major or a minor for students studying other subjects. These include:

  • Biology
  • Psychology
  • Finance
  • Economics
  • other social sciences such as Criminology and Education.

Depending on the rest of your degree, you’re likely to focus your study on one of two pathways: Mathematical Statistics or Applied Statistics.

Mathematical Statistics

You’ll focus on the theoretical aspects of statistics. This suits students with a good background in mathematics with calculus.

Applied Statistics

You’ll explore the uses of statistics in practical settings like life sciences or social sciences—such as health, the environment, education, or psychology.

Degree support and advice

We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.

If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser.

If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.

Two students with laptops are being helped by a third person

Study options

Find out how you can study Statistics at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Tohu Paetahi Pūtaiao

Bachelor of Science—BSc

UNDERGRADUATEBACHELOR'S DEGREE
Create a science degree that’s unique to you, your passions, and your career goals. Enjoy study both in and outside the classroom.
Duration
3 years
Location
Kelburn campus, Wellington
Level of study
Undergraduate
Points
360
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2026 – Trimester 3
Apply by
12 Nov 2026
Start study
16 Nov 2026
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
2027 – Trimester 3
Apply by
10 Oct 2027
Start study
15 Nov 2027

Future careers

Statistical analysis and data mining are crucial skills employers need to help them stay competitive.

Statistics graduates are employed across the public and private sectors. They use their skills to monitor and forecast in areas such as:

  • agriculture
  • conservation
  • health
  • criminology
  • education
  • psychology.

More career information

Find out more about careers with statistics.

The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.

Scholarships

You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.

GCSB Women in STEM Scholarship

These scholarships are open to women applicants. They're awarded on academic merit, volunteering work, and commitment to a STEM career.

Find out more about the scholarship

Other scholarships

We have first year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for Mathematics and Statistics

  • Worth: $4,000 (subject to funds available) Closing: 31 October, 2026

    The scholarship is open to full time students enrolled in Mathematics or Physics, who are entering their second or subsequent year or postgraduate study at Te Herenga Waka— Victoria University of Wellington.

  • Worth: $6,000 Closing: 15 March, 2027

    In honour of Jonathan Nicholls (ACC's Head of Actuarial Services who passed away in early 2015), ACC wishes to promote the actuarial profession in much the same way that Jonathan did. ACC is dedicated to supporting Actuarial Science students and others looking to pursue a career in the actuarial profession.

  • Worth: $4,000 (subject to funds available) Closing: 31 March, 2027

    The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.

Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

We also offer specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for Mathematics and Statistics

  • Worth: $4,000 (subject to funds available) Closing: 31 October, 2026

    The scholarship is open to full time students enrolled in Mathematics or Physics, who are entering their second or subsequent year or postgraduate study at Te Herenga Waka— Victoria University of Wellington.

  • Worth: $6,000 Closing: 15 March, 2027

    In honour of Jonathan Nicholls (ACC's Head of Actuarial Services who passed away in early 2015), ACC wishes to promote the actuarial profession in much the same way that Jonathan did. ACC is dedicated to supporting Actuarial Science students and others looking to pursue a career in the actuarial profession.

  • Worth: $4,000 (subject to funds available) Closing: 31 March, 2027

    The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Postgraduate study

If you choose to continue to postgraduate study with us after finishing your degree, you’ll join a talented team of internationally recognised researchers doing innovative work.

If you get good results in your undergraduate study, you could go on to an Honours degree. You could then continue your study with a Master’s degree, or for a PhD if you want to do independent research.

Postgraduate Statistics

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Get help to manage your finances

We can help you:

  • budget your money
  • manage your student loan or allowance
  • work out your accommodation payment schedule.

If you're facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.

You may be eligible for government or community support, too.

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Wellington Global Exchange

If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.

Wellington Global Exchange
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Study Abroad and Exchange Programme

If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here. 

Study Abroad and Exchange

Discover your career pathway with Tahatū