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Data Science Personal Statement in 2024 [Sample & Examples]

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Data science is one of the most popular career options for students, especially those pursuing a Bachelor's degree. It is also one of the most sought-after courses in universities today. If you just want some ideas on how to write a data science personal statement, then this article is for you. Also, if you’re someone who is willing to secure a career in the field of data science, then it is recommended that you pursue Data Science Courses that will enable you to learn all aspects and principles of data science. 

What is a Data Science Personal Statement?

In a nutshell, the personal statement for data science is a document that you write to explain why you are interested in pursuing the subject and what you can bring to the table. It should be written in a way that shows your interest in the subject and why you want to study it. You may want to include information about the following in your data science personal statement.  

• What led up to your decision to pursue this field? 
• Why do data scientists matter? What problems need solving by them? What value do they provide society as well as individuals? 
• How will studying this specific field help prepare you for future careers or additional educational opportunities (e-learning programs, etc.)?

You can also include the following:  

• What are your goals for this degree?  
• How will it benefit you?  
• What do you hope to achieve from studying data science?  
• Why is this field important in today’s society?  
• What are the challenges that you see in this field?  
• How will you address those challenges?  
• What do you think the future of data science is?  
• How do you plan on staying relevant as technologies and trends change?

The Importance of Creating a Data Science Personal Statement

Data science personal statement is a formal document that will be used by the company to evaluate your skills. If you are applying for a Data Science job and want to impress the hiring manager, then you must write a strong data science personal statement.

A good personal statement for a master's in data science must be unique, creative, informative and interesting to read. It should describe not only your skills and experience but also showcase your ability to think critically and creatively.

A well-written data science personal statement will help you stand out from other applicants and make yourself an ideal candidate for the job that you want. Here are some useful tips for writing a strong data science personal statement: 

• Be honest and straightforward in your personal statement. 
• Don’t exaggerate or lie about your skills, experience and achievements. If you don’t have any relevant work experience, then focus on other areas where you can showcase your skills, such as volunteering or community projects. 
• Know the company that you are applying to and tailor your personal statement accordingly. A generic resume won’t help if you are applying for a specific job position. Instead, write a customized letter that shows how well-suited you are for this role. 
• Keep it short and sweet. The best personal statements are between a few hundred to a few thousand words long. Don’t try to cram everything in one big paragraph; break it up into smaller sections that will make it easier for readers to digest. 

So now you might have understood how important data analytics personal statements are. To learn how to create a personal statement, it is recommended that you enroll in the Best Data Science Bootcamps . 

Data Science Personal Statement Sample

I am writing this Data Science Personal Statement for the MS in Data Science program at UC Berkeley. My goal is to explain why I want to pursue a career in data science and how my experience as an undergraduate student has prepared me for graduate school. As you can see from my resume, I have had many opportunities to work with large amounts of data through internships and research projects over the course of my academic career. These experiences have given me valuable insight into how large-scale computational problems can be tackled by applying statistical methods under tight deadlines while still maintaining quality control over your results. 

In addition, I have taken classes such as AI/ML Systems Design & Implementation and Machine Learning Algorithms. These classes have helped me develop new ways of approaching problems while also providing an understanding of why certain algorithms work better than others when applied in specific situations. 

I am a Data Science Major at UC Berkeley and have been for two years. In order to graduate with a major in Data Science, you must complete four required classes, one of which is an independent study project. 

I have chosen to take this independent study project in order to gain hands-on experience with a data science problem of my choosing and to learn how to effectively apply machine learning algorithms in the real world. My goal is to create an application that can accurately predict where students need tutoring based on their past grades. This project will require me to use various classes of statistical models, such as regression, decision trees, and neural networks. 

How to Write a Personal Statement for Masters Programme in Data Science?

If you are looking for the best way to write a sample personal statement for a master in data science, you should follow these steps: 

• Step 1: The first step is to find out what courses are available in your area and how long it takes to complete them. You can find this information on websites online. 
• Step 2: Once you have this information, you need to think about how much time you will have available each day. It is important that you do not leave your studies until you finish all of your courses because once you finish your degree program, there will be no more work available for you. Your ability to continue working will depend upon how well your personal statement for data science courses was received by universities and whether or not they offer scholarships for those who want to study abroad or online. 
• Step 3: In order to write a good personal statement for M.Sc data science, you will need to think about why you want to continue your education after completing your bachelor's degree program. This could be because of what happened during college or because of something else entirely (such as family obligations). If it is something that happened during college, then you will need to explain what that event was and how it has affected your desire to continue your education. If it is something that happened outside of college, then you should talk about how that event impacted your academic performance and why you want to continue studying.

Data Science Personal Statement Example 

Following is a data science personal statement example. You can refer to this data science statement of purpose example and keep in mind the necessary points.

Source: personal-statement-examples.com

Tips to Write an Effective Data Science Personal Statement

The following tips will help you write an effective personal statement for a master in data science: 

1. Use a Template

It's best to use a template that has been created by experienced admissions officers and other professionals in the field. This means you can skip the writing process entirely since they've already done most of it for you. 

2. Keep Your Sentences Short and Simple

Your goal should be no more than one or two paragraphs per section (including your application summary), which means keeping your sentences as short as possible without compromising clarity or coherence. If there are too many adjectives or numbers used in an otherwise simple sentence, try replacing them with action verbs like "ran" instead of "ran fast." 

3. Avoid Clichés

In your data science personal statement sample, instead of saying things like "I am dynamic," try saying something more descriptive such as “I am highly dynamic” instead because this shows off how creative your mind works while also showing off how well-rounded personas are important traits needed by anyone working at companies when writing an M.Sc data science personal statement.  

Do’s and Don’ts While Writing Personal Statement

Data science is a booming field with a lot of opportunities. You can work anywhere and make a good salary with this skill. If you think that it’s not for you, then it’s time to think again. The world has changed and so have our needs as individuals. Data science professionals will be needed in the future because of their role in shaping our lives as we know them today. In order to pursue a career in this broad field of data science, it is recommended that you pursue KnowledgeHut to learn its principal aspects and gain in-depth knowledge about data science personal statement. Data Science Courses to learn its principal aspects and gain in-depth knowledge about data science.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Find out what diploma courses are available in your area and how long it takes to complete them. Once you have this information, you need to think about how much time you will have available each day. After evaluating all these things, start writing your personal statement using templates. 

• The reason(s) why you selected this subject(s) 
• Your chosen area of study and how it relates to the current studies 
• Your experiences in relation to your chosen subject(s) 
• What are your interests and responsibilities in relation to the subject you are studying? 
• After university, what's next? 
• A summary of why you will make an excellent student 
• Don’t use quotes 
• Don’t let spelling and grammatical errors spoil your statement. 
• Don’t copy and paste 

During the writing of the letter of intent for the MS in Data Science course, it is important to take into account the basic questions asked by the institution, including what kind of ambitions the prospective candidate has and the inspiration behind those ambitions. If the students do not want to sound conversational in their essays, then they should keep in mind that the tone should be formal instead of informal.

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Sample Personal Statement Data Science and Analytics

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The demand for data science experts is increasing in every industry, not just in technology. Moreover, it is a high-paying job with a guaranteed placement even before graduation. Hence, the competition is also increasing, and with every passing year, the ease of getting into a top data analytics program keeps getting harder. So, start early with your application and make sure you put good time into drafting your perfect application essays.

Here is a sample personal statement of data science professional with two years of experience working in a big data consulting firm. This candidate was able to secure admission into top data science programs like Vanderbilt and CMU. He has graciously shared his successful essay so that prospective applicants can benefit from it.

Related Personal Statements 1) Sample Personal Statement Business Analytics 2) Sample Personal Statement in Advanced Analytics (admitted to NCSU) 3) Sample Personal Statement in Analytics (admitted to Georgia Tech) 4) Sample Personal Statement in Management and Analytics (admitted to LBS)

Sample Personal Statement for Big Data/Data Science/Data Analytics

I want to play a critical role as a big data architect who translates business problems into solvable analytics. In the short run, I want to work for a leading FMCG firm like Unilever, P&G, or Nestle and define procedures and models to determine what IT systems gather and remove information silos across different departments. In the long run, however, I want to extend my expertise in the public sector and advise corporates and governments alike across the globe to solve several social and business problems through big data.

My undergraduate has equipped me with extensive quantitative knowledge and technical experience around different themes in Computer Engineering. I’ve focused most of my studies on GUI in C++, apps and game development, and intensive numerical analysis. This was further honed when I joined Afiniti Experience Ltd as Software Engineer.

I have written scripts using MySQL and MSSQL to process large datasets and troubleshoot and configure the company’s operations. At Afiniti, I have developed a strong skillset in collecting, storing and managing big data. I plan to translate business problems into analytics-driven solutions, which I would embed into business operations. However, I must first curate my leadership skills and polish my skillset in designing computational pipelines for high-dimensional and large-scale complex data.

At Vanderbilt, I want to develop my theoretical basis of operations and decision technologies which ideally dovetails with my career interests of applying quantitative techniques in business operations. Beyond the classroom, I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with Vanderbilt’s influential faculty. The Data Science Institute will allow me to learn data-driven research and train me as a future leader.

In particular, the techniques of Gautam Biswas on learner modeling and adaptivity are foundational for my current work. Moreover, Jeffrey D. Blume’s expertise in statistical inference and methodology for analyzing and interpreting receiver operating characteristic curves will equip me with tools through which I can excel in my future career.

My future aspirations require strong leadership qualities recognized in a data-driven world. For this purpose, I would greatly benefit from Data Science Institute’s capstone development and lead a project from scratch. This will mold my personality into a global leader’s persona.

Lastly, I will exploit the locational advantage of living at Vanderbilt and gain access to multiple fortune 500 companies where I can seek pro bono consulting opportunities and enhance my problem-solving acumen. I am also confident in acquiring the necessary communication skills to present solutions to Product Managers, Sales Associates, Engineers, and Marketing Teams.

To sum up, owing to my aspirations and professional expertise in big data synthesis, I am confident of using the vibrant opportunities at Vanderbilt’s master’s in data science and converting it into an ideal segue for my future career aspirations.

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Data Science Personal Statement Samples with Examples

A data science personal statement is crucial for pursuing a career in the field as it allows individuals to showcase their qualifications, experiences, and aspirations.

It serves as a platform to express their passions and highlight their academic backgrounds, technical skills, and practical experiences. The statement enables individuals to articulate career goals, research interests, and potential contributions. 

In that sense, a personal statement examples are valuable as it offers guidance and examples of successful statements, providing insights into key elements, structure, and content. Samples also inspire and motivate by showcasing possibilities and achievements in the data science field. They help individuals understand how to express their passion, highlight relevant skills, and align career goals. 

If you are a data science enthusiast, consider enrolling in an Advanced Certificate Programme in Data Science to boost your resume.

What is a Data Science Personal Statement?

Data science personal statements are written statements or essays by individuals aiming to pursue courses like a Master of Science in Data Science from LJMU or aspiring to pursue a career in data science. These statements allow applicants to showcase their passion, skills, and experiences related to data science. Personal statements must be submitted as a part of the application process. 

They typically highlight the individual’s motivation for choosing data science, their relevant academic background, technical skills, and any practical experience they have gained. Personal statements also allow applicants to express their career goals, research interests, and how they envision contributing to the field of data science. 

As a student or professional in this field, referring to a data science personal statement sample is crucial in conveying your suitability and enthusiasm to the admissions committee or potential employers.

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Key Elements of a Strong Data Science Personal Statement

The essential components of a compelling personal statement for data science comprise:

• Genuine Passion and Drive: Demonstrating a deep-rooted enthusiasm for data science and a solid motivation to pursue a career in this field.
• Academic Background: Showcasing academic accomplishments relevant to data science, such as degrees, coursework, or research projects in quantitative disciplines.
• Technical Proficiency: Exhibiting expertise in programming languages (like Python or R), statistical analysis, machine learning techniques, data manipulation, and visualisation tools.
• Practical Exposure: Highlighting practical experiences, such as internships, projects, or industry engagements that have honed data science skills.
• Areas of Interest in Research: Creatively ideating your areas of interest in data science, like computer vision, predictive modelling, and natural language processing and discussing research contributions or projects in these domains.
• Analytical Problem-Solving: Demonstrating skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and applying appropriate data science methods to real-world challenges.
• Efficient Collaboration and Communication: Emphasising efficient communication skills, teamwork capabilities, and the ability to convey complex concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Future Aspirations: Outlining long-term career goals in data science and how one envisions utilising this field to impact the industry or domain of their choice.

Example 1: Personal Statement for an Entry-Level Data Science Position

I am eager to apply for this role as I have a degree in Computer Science and a course concentration on statistics and machine learning. Along with a strong base in data analytics, I have commendable analytical skills and an aptitude for problem-solving. I have also taken an active part in multiple relevant projects in which I was required to work with algorithms to derive insights from numerous datasets. 

Additionally, my internship experience exposed me to real-world challenges, refining my expertise in data cleansing and preprocessing for effective modelling. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic team, leveraging my technical skills and enthusiasm to drive data-informed decision-making and deliver impactful solutions. I believe I am a potential candidate for an entry-level data science role. 

Example 2: Personal Statement for a Data Analyst Role

As an ambitious individual aiming for a data analyst role, I am enthusiastic about applying my analytical abilities and dedication to data-driven insights within a vibrant organisation. Equipped with a degree in statistics and hands-on involvement in data manipulation and visualisation, I have established a strong foundation in data analysis. 

Throughout my academic endeavours, I have refined my aptitude for extracting valuable insights and effectively communicating them to key stakeholders. Moreover, my internship at a well-known company allowed me to apply statistical methodologies to extensive datasets, further augmenting my analytical proficiencies. 

I eagerly look forward to applying my technical acumen and problem-solving prowess to unearth meaningful insights, facilitate data-led decision-making, and contribute to the organisation’s triumphs.

Example 3: Personal Statement for a Data Scientist Position

I am enthusiastic about data science and am beyond elated by its potential to take my area of interest to greater heights. I have cultivated a profound understanding of statistical modelling, machine learning algorithms, and the art of data visualisation required to fulfil my role as a data scientist. I have upskilled myself with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a Master’s in Data Science and hands-on experience in research projects. 

Throughout my academic trajectory, I actively participated in endeavours that harnessed advanced analytics to extract profound insights from expansive datasets. Furthermore, my professional background has honed my collaborative acumen, bolstered my contributions to data-driven initiatives, and engendered actionable recommendations. 

I eagerly anticipate harnessing my expertise in data analysis, programming prowess, and problem-solving aptitude to propel innovation, facilitate data-driven decision-making, and profoundly contribute to the organisation’s achievements as a data scientist.

Example 4: Personal Statement for a Data Engineer Role

As a dedicated advocate of harnessing the transformative potential of data, I am thrilled to pursue a data engineer role where I can utilise my technical aptitude and drive impactful solutions. 

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and professional experience in database management, ETL processes, and data pipeline development. I have established a strong foundation in data engineering principles. Proficient in SQL, Python, and cloud platforms, I can efficiently transform raw data into valuable insights. Throughout my academic journey, I actively participated in projects that involved designing and implementing robust data architectures, optimising query performance, and ensuring data integrity. 

I am eager to contribute my expertise and collaborate with cross-functional teams to construct scalable and reliable data infrastructure that empowers data-driven decision-making.

Example 5: Personal Statement for a Machine Learning Engineer Position

As a passionate advocate of leveraging machine learning to drive innovation, I am excited to pursue a position as a machine learning engineer where I can apply my technical expertise and problem-solving skills to develop cutting-edge solutions. 

I have gained a solid understanding of the field with a strong academic background in computer science and a focus on machine learning algorithms and model development. I have honed my data preprocessing, feature engineering, and model evaluation skills through my project work and internships.

I am eager to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, apply my knowledge in practical settings, and contribute to creating intelligent systems that positively impact industries and society.

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Tips for Writing an Effective Data Science Personal Statement

Here are some tried and tested tips for writing an impactful data science personal statement:

• Clearly express your deep enthusiasm for the field of data science: Begin your statement by articulating your genuine passion and excitement for data science. Elucidate what captivates you about data analysis, machine learning, or any particular aspect of data science that ignites your motivation.
• Emphasise your pertinent academic background: Highlight your educational qualifications, such as degrees, coursework, or certifications, that directly relate to data science. Discuss specific subjects you have studied, projects you have engaged in, and any research experience you have gained.
• Showcase your technical proficiencies: Outline the technical skills you have acquired, including programming languages (Python, R, SQL), statistical analysis, machine learning algorithms, data visualisation, or frameworks for big data processing. Offer concrete and quantifiable examples of how you have applied these skills in practical projects or academic assignments.
• Share your practical experiences: Discuss any internships, industry projects, or research opportunities where you have gained hands-on experience with real-world data and problem-solving. Highlight notable achievements, challenges you have confronted, and strategies to overcome them.
• Demonstrate your problem-solving capabilities: Elaborate on your approach to resolving intricate problems through data-driven methodologies. Expound upon how you analyse data, formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and assess results to extract meaningful insights and make well-informed decisions.
• Establish a connection between your goals and the field: Articulate your career aspirations clearly and explain how embarking on a data science career aligns with those ambitions. Discuss specific areas or industries that interest you, and elucidate how your skills and expertise can contribute to tackling challenges in those domains.
• Highlight your communication and teamwork skills: Acknowledge that data science entails effective communication and collaboration. Showcase instances where you have adeptly conveyed complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders or collaborated within multidisciplinary teams to achieve project objectives.
• Tailor your statement to the specific role or programme: Customise your statement to match the requirements and expectations of the data science position or programme for which you are applying. Conduct thorough research on the organisation or university to grasp their focal points, projects, or faculty expertise, and integrate pertinent details to demonstrate your suitability and alignment.
• Strive for concise and well-structured content: Maintain focus and conciseness throughout your statement, ensuring each sentence contributes value and reinforces your overall message. Employ a logical structure, commencing with an engaging introduction, developing well-articulated body paragraphs, and culminating in a firm conclusion.
• Carefully review and edit: Before submission, meticulously review your personal statement for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Verify consistency in tone, smoothness of flow, and compelling content. Seek feedback from reliable sources, such as mentors or professors, to obtain valuable insights and recommendations for refinement.

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Data science personal statement samples provide invaluable guidance and inspiration for aspiring data scientists. They catalyse self-reflection and help applicants align their own experiences and aspirations with the dynamic field of data science. By studying successful personal statements, you can gain insights into the key elements, structure, and content required to create a compelling personal statement. 

Armed with a professional certification like an Executive PG Programme in Data Science from IIIT Bangalore , you can craft personal statements that effectively convey your unique qualities, setting you apart and increasing your chances of securing admission or job opportunities in the competitive field of data science.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The statement of purpose for data science should encompass the reasons for selecting data science as a specialisation, aspirations for a career in the field, and a strategic plan outlining how the acquired data science education will be utilised to attain those goals.

It is advisable to share pertinent details of employment, internships, work experience, or voluntary engagements, particularly those relevant to the chosen course of study. Establishing a connection between the experiences and the skills or qualities that contribute to a candidate's potential for success is crucial.

The introduction of a personal statement should commence with an explanation of the rationale behind choosing the field of study, summarised in one or two sentences. Be original and avoid clichéd opening sentences, quotes, or overused expressions to maintain a fresh and engaging introduction.

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Personal Statement that got selected to MS in Data Science, University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)

Penn’s Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) in Data Science prepares students for a wide range of data-centric careers, whether in technology and engineering, consulting, science, policy-making, or understanding patterns in literature, art or communications.

It blends leading-edge courses in core topics such as machine learning, big data analytics, and statistics, with a variety of electives and an opportunity to apply these techniques in a domain specialisation – a depth area – of choice.

So, what does it take to get into one of the top 15 programs of the USA in Data Science? I mean, look at it! Wouldn’t you want to spend 2 years here?

So, let’s look at the ‘Personal Statement’ requirements what the UPenn lists out in its Admission Requirements:

• No more than two pages in a readable font/size:
• Why are you interested in this program?
• What have you done that makes you a great candidate?
• How will you benefit from the program?
• How do you plan to contribute to the student community in SEAS while you’re here?
• Why will you succeed in the program?
• What will you do/accomplish once you have completed the program?

As it is amply clear, the AdCom doesn’t want the details of EVERYTHING that you have done in your academic projects. You should answer only these 6 questions, in a way that best justifies your interest in this program. Right?

Here is where the Mridul got it wrong.

About Mridul

Mridul grew up in Mumbai, went to KJ Somaiya College Of Engineering in Mumbai, and had a GPA of 8.46.

He had a GRE score of 322 (167 Q 155 V) and a TOEFL score of 103.

His academic projects reasonably aligned with the research work at UPenn, one of his dream schools.

When he sent us the first draft, it was his entire story of all the things he has done till now. In total, it was 4 PAGES LONG!

So, our first revision was to cut short the massive piece of self-appreciation, to a workable draft of around 1000 words.

Then, we cherry picked some of the most notable projects of Mridul, and tried to address the questions that the AdCom was really looking for.

After 3 rounds of revision, we arrived at the final draft which looked like this:

As it can be seen, each paragraph of Mridul’s Personal Statement, tries to address a question which helps the AdCom to decide if you are the ‘RIGHT FIT’ for the class.

Since there was no hard limitation on the number of words, we stuck to around 1100 words to clearly and concisely tell Mridul’s story to the AdCom.

Mridul was accepted to three graduate programs – University of Pennsylvania (MS in Data Science), University of California Irvine (MS in Computer Science), and CMU (MS in Data Science)

We couldn’t be happier! Like this happy puppy.

Read Shrishti’s application journey to MS in Computer Science, University of Southern California (USC)

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Guide to Writing Data Science Personal Statements

Table of Contents

A  data science personal statement  is an integral part of the application process for aspiring data scientists. It provides recruiters and admissions board representatives insight into a candidate’s motivations, skills, and abilities related to their chosen field of study. 

The statement should demonstrate a clear understanding of the concepts and practices that make up the data science discipline. It showcases an applicant’s technical aptitude and professional experience. A successful personal statement will convey passion for the profession through emotionally resonant language and examples. 

Personal statements are everyday encounters in job applications as well as applications to special programs and postgraduate studies.

While personal statements and resumes both demonstrate an applicant’s qualifications, the former does so in paragraph form. This is crucial because it allows applicants a reasonable degree of creativity to create vivid depictions and powerful messages.

This allows them to not only create a good impression on readers but also to evoke emotions.

The Importance of a Personal Statement

The primary function of a personal statement is to give insight into the type of person you are. It provides recruiters and admissions board officers a glimpse into your qualifications . 

The actual value of a personal statement lies in its exposition. While resumes and summaries give readers the information they need pertaining to your qualifications, personal statements have a more intimate feel.

They read like stories. They take readers on a journey that helps them fully appreciate an applicant’s skills, experience, and character. Personal statements are particularly beneficial because they encourage recruiters and admissions board members to see candidates as more than just their qualifications. They are a way to show evaluators the person behind the application.

But, as good as all these sound, you can reap these benefits only through a compelling personal statement. If you’re unsure of how to write your data science personal statement, heed the following tips.

Tips for Writing a Data Science Personal Statement

Highlight Your Most Relevant Experience

Demonstrate your skills and accomplishments in data science by including concrete examples. Include experiences such as projects you have worked on or organizations/industries in which you have experience. Doing so will help to demonstrate that you possess the necessary qualifications for a successful career in data science. 

Showcase Personal Passion

Showcasing your passion for data science. You can do this by highlighting the personal challenges, successes, and motivations which led to your interest in the field. Explain what inspired you and how this has driven you to pursue further education and, ultimately, a career in data science. 

Be Specific

Make sure that when describing both experiences and achievements, they are as specific as possible.

Doing so will allow an admissions panel to better understand the nature of your work and its relevance to data science. Providing evidence to support statements (e.g., screenshots, code snippets, sample analyses) is also beneficial. 

Use Clear Language

Being clear and concise is essential when writing about complex topics like data science.

Aim to use language which conveys your points without overcomplicating them with jargon or technical terms. This will make it easier for an admissions panel to understand your application, increasing the chances of being accepted onto their program. 

Leverage Emotional Writing

The tone of your statement should reflect a human quality, using emotions and speaking authentically about why data science excites you. If appropriate, include colloquial language throughout; while ensuring it does not detract from the overall clarity of your essay.

Data Science Personal Statement Example

I have been deeply invested in the burgeoning field of data science for almost a decade. My expertise has allowed me to explore its nuances and applications with avid enthusiasm. I utilized my specialized knowledge to contribute significantly to many successful projects. As a result, I have accrued an immense portfolio of experience. My experience ranges from predictive analytics to natural language processing. This sets me apart as a leader in a rapidly-evolving industry.

From analyzing complex datasets to constructing scalable machine learning systems, my tenaciousness drives me to continually seek out dynamic challenges. Although I am thoroughly versed in all theoretical aspects of data science, I thrive on uncovering new possibilities through experimentation and creative problem-solving. I pride myself on being able to translate technical jargon into actionable solutions. 

A personal statement is a short paragraph that outlines a candidate’s skills, experiences, and motivation . It is an essential document because it allows applicants to connect with readers and establish a good impression. Remember our simple tips. While they won’t make you an expert overnight, they will help you cement good writing habits that will serve you well in the future.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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How To Write An Appealing Personal Statement For Masters Programme In Data Science

Illustration by How To Write An Appealing Personal Statement For Masters Programme In Data Science

• Published on July 31, 2020
• by Sejuti Das

Besides submitting test scores, recommendation letters, and an undergraduate transcript, one essential requirement of applying to a data science masters programme is the application essay — aka personal statement. The personal statement is where applicants need to convince the professors their ability and worth of getting selected in the master programme . 

In fact, many a time, a personal statement acts as a deciding factor for getting chosen for a prestigious masters programme in the field of data science . Thus, one needs to be extremely cautious while writing a personal statement for their master’s application. Not only does it help the university authorities determine the sincere interest of the applicant to enrol for the course, but also provide a chance to the students to stand out of the crowd highlighting their skills and relevancy.

Having said that, data scientists are experts in mathematics, but writing might not always be their expertise , and a personal statement is usually longer than you think and requires to be well crafted in order to grab the attention of professors and administrators. So, if decided to pursue higher studies in the data science field and have narrowed down universities to apply, this article can help you write a winning personal statement required to apply for the data science masters’ programme.

Also Read: The 10 Most Promising Data Science Masters Programs In US

Planning Is The Key: Highlight The Reason To Study Data Science Masters

Although it is stated as ‘personal,’ a personal statement doesn’t require applicants to share the intimate details of their life; instead, it needs to highlight the intention of the applicant for the particular master’s programme. To avoid any confusion or mistakes, the first step to write a personal statement for a data science masters programme is to brainstorm around it and plan it before actually starting to write. It is critical to make notes and use bullet points when planning, which can later be referred to while writing the personal statement. One should research thoroughly about the course requirements and the university, and prepare a list of their achievements and goals that can come handy while writing the essay. 

Most universities expect their applicants to adhere to a specific word limit for the personal statement, and thus a good brainstorming will help applicants to keep their essay relevant and to the point. Planning will help in setting the context, creating a structure and forming a narrative of the piece that is critical for drafting a compelling statement.

Also Read: What Not To Include In Your Data Science Resume

Have A Killer Intro & A Concise Conclusion: Relevant To The Passion For The Field

An attention-grabbing intro and a hard-hitting conclusion are again critical for writing a compelling personal statement. The first paragraph can create the first impression of the applicant in front of the professors, and a sharp end will help them remember that candidate among the crowd. The readers of the personal statement are the experts from the data science industry and academics; thus, they expect the writeup to be extremely intriguing in terms of content. 

Personal statements are usually lengthy but require to be extremely clear in sending out the message. Rather than starting the essay with some cliches, data science applicants should begin their personal statement highlighting their passion for the stream and their domain proficiency. And to have a definite ending, these data scientists must ensure to convey their genuine interest in pursuing the master’s programme, and how their skills are relevant to the stream.

Also Read: Tips And Templates For A Data Scientist Resume

Be A Good Story Teller: Highlight Experiences & Skill Sets

Thirdly, data science applicants must showcase their skill sets and experience in their personal statements without repeating the information that is already mentioned in their application form. And that’s why it is critical to be a good storyteller with their statement, where applicants can highlight their skills by talking about a particular data science research project that helped in solving real-life problems. One can also point out their experiences, knowledge, and quantify their expertise in the field that can help them in pursuing further studies.

The job of the personal statement is to let the administrators and professors know the abilities of the applicants to be qualified for the master’s programme. Data scientists can also mention their thesis, publications, journals or any relevant activities that can help them in getting selected. A well crafted personal statement avoids clichés, jargons, and too many details, and should be presented formally with a clear narrative.

Also Read: How To Create A Compelling Cover Letter To Land A Data Science Job

Focus On Your Domain & The Programme

Unlike undergraduate courses, masters programmes are more specific as well as require applicants to understand the domain they are pursuing. Consequently, while writing a personal statement, one needs to sync their interest according to the requirement of the programme and emphasise on the specific skills that match the area of expertise. One can also network with relevant faculty members and seniors to get a better understanding of the requirements of the program.

Many universities are also working on several ongoing data science projects, citing one of them corresponding to the interest, can also be a great addition to the personal statement. Furthermore, applicants can also write about what inspired them to pursue this particular domain and how their work will contribute to the field. One can also share their personal experiences and how that has helped in pursuing this course.

Also Read: What Data Science Graduates Need To Do To Get Hired During Covid-19

Don’t Be Generic: Customise The Write Up For The Course

Lastly, it is critical that the essay is unique and thus requires to be customised according to the university and its requirements. Applicants don’t have to start from scratch every time they are applying to a university, but they must ensure that they still provide a unique draft personal statement to each application. Professors and administrators read thousands of personal statements in a day, and therefore to be unique, applicants cannot pick up generic content to build their essay.

Applicants can also make the personal statement unique by adding up personal experiences relevant to the field, which will not only make the read interesting but also will allow the readers to empathise with the applicant. One can also add up a few of their failures to make it sound genuine as well as relatable. Usually, masters programmes don’t conduct face to face interviews; thus, personal statement plays a vital role in the applicants’ admission process.

Also Read: 10 Commonly Asked Puzzles In A Data Science Interview

Other Things To Keep In Mind

• Personal statements are not university applications, so don’t be repetitive.
• Highlight why this university is the right choice for the career you are planning to pursue.
• Although it’s the life experiences one shares in their personal statements, it indeed requires to be professional and to the point. 
• Avoid grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

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Writing Personal Statements for Graduate School

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Personal Statements

Preparing a well-written and effective personal statement (sometimes referred to as statements of purpose or personal essays) that clearly articulates your preparation, goals, and motivation for pursuing that specific graduate degree is critically important. You will need to spend a considerable amount of time and effort in crafting these statements. The focus, structure, and length of personal statements vary from program to program. Some will have prompts or questions you need to answer, while others will leave the topic open-ended. The length varies widely as well. Read instructions carefully and make sure to adhere to all parameters laid out in the application guidelines.

Clear writing is the result of clear thinking. The first and most important task is to decide on a message. Consider carefully which two or three points you wish to impress upon the reader, remembering that your audience is composed of academics who are experts in their fields. Your statement should show that you are able to think logically and express your thoughts in a clear and concise manner. Remember that the reader already has a record of your activities and your transcript; avoid simply restating your resume and transcript. Writing your statement will take time; start early and give yourself more than enough time for revisions. If no prompts are given, you can use the questions below to begin brainstorming content to include in your statement.

• What experiences and academic preparation do you have that are relevant to the degree you’re seeking?
• Why are you choosing to pursue a graduate degree at this time?
• Why do you want to pursue this particular degree and how will this degree and the specific program fit into your career plans and your long-term goals?
• What specific topics are you aiming to explore and what does the current literature say about those topics?

After you’ve written a first draft, start the work of editing, refining, simplifying, and polishing. Provide specific examples that will help illustrate your points and convey your interests, intentions, and motivations. Is any section, sentence, or word superfluous, ambiguous, apologetic, or awkward? Are your verbs strong and active? Have you removed most of the qualifiers? Are you sure that each activity or interest you mention supports one of your main ideas? Spelling and grammatical errors are inexcusable. Don’t rely on spell-check to catch all errors; read your statement aloud and have it reviewed by multiple people whose opinion you trust. If possible, have your statement reviewed by a writing tutor. For individual assistance with writing your personal statement, consult with the writing tutor in your residential college  or the Writing Center within the Yale Center for Teaching and Learning .

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Data Science MSc personal statement

• Reading time: 3 minutes
• Price: Free download
• Published: 13th September 2019
• Word count: 616 words
• File format: Text

Like the vast and ever-expanding universe, the big data fields are in a perpetual expansion mode. Both fascinate me. The sheer volume and complexity of data being generated in today’s world present unprecedented opportunities for exploration and analysis. Harnessing the power of data can lead to groundbreaking discoveries, transformative insights, and innovative solutions to some of the most pressing challenges we face.

My education has provided me with a strong foundation to navigate this data-driven landscape. Through my coursework in computer science, I have gained a deep understanding of algorithms, data structures, and programming languages, all of which are crucial components in extracting meaningful information from large datasets. This knowledge has not only enabled me to work comfortably with computers and numbers but has also fostered my passion for leveraging data to uncover valuable insights.

Building on my educational foundation, my work experience in the field of technology and business management has allowed me to put theory into practice. I have had the opportunity to work on large-scale, data-intensive projects that have exposed me to the challenges faced by various industries and governments. The experience has strengthened my ability to analyze complex datasets, identify patterns, and derive actionable intelligence that can drive informed decision-making.

In this era of big data, organizations have come to realize the importance of transitioning from traditional methods to data-driven approaches. It is now essential to understand and process all aspects of data and analyze it effectively to arrive at optimal choices for decision-making. This realization has sparked a surge in demand for professionals who possess the skills and expertise to transform raw data into meaningful insights. I have been fortunate enough to develop hands-on experience with programming languages like SQL and JSON, as well as data visualization tools like Excel and Tableau. These practical experiences have allowed me to deepen my understanding of data analysis techniques and strengthen my ability to communicate complex information visually.

Furthermore, my passion for big data extends beyond technical proficiency. I am captivated by the immense potential of predictive analytics and artificial intelligence (AI). The ability to leverage advanced algorithms and machine learning models to uncover hidden patterns, forecast trends, and make data-driven predictions holds tremendous promise for addressing complex challenges across industries. By exploring these fields, I aim to contribute to the development and application of AI techniques that can empower organizations and individuals to make informed decisions and drive positive change.

As I look ahead, my goal is to be a Data Scientist and contribute to an organization’s data-driven decision-making processes. I am particularly excited about the prospect of applying my skills and knowledge to real-world scenarios, where I can utilize data to uncover insights and create innovative solutions. Ultimately, I envision establishing my own enterprise that focuses on mentoring and guiding the next generation of data scientists, fostering a community of individuals dedicated to using data for social good and addressing pressing challenges.

The MSc Data Science program with an industry placement at Essex University aligns perfectly with my aspirations. Its comprehensive curriculum and emphasis on practical application will provide me with the theoretical foundation and hands-on experience necessary to excel in the field. I am eager to immerse myself in an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking, where I can learn from esteemed faculty and engage with like-minded peers.

In conclusion, my passion for big data, combined with my educational background and industry experience, fuels my desire to pursue the MSc Data Science program at Essex University. By expanding my knowledge, developing advanced analytical skills, and immersing myself in real-world applications, I am confident that I will be well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the world of data science .

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• Postgraduate Personal Statements

Written by Ben Taylor

Once you’ve found the perfect Masters programme, the next step is to begin the application process. You’ll usually have to write a postgraduate personal statement that highlights your strengths, skills and experience, giving you the perfect opportunity to sell yourself and to show the admissions tutor that you’ll thrive at their university.

This page provides some practical tips on writing a successful personal statement for a Masters application, from the typical structure to avoidable mistakes – along with some examples of what to do and what not to do! We’ve also included links to several postgraduate personal statement examples in subjects including Business, Psychology and International Relations.

On this page

What is a masters personal statement.

If you’re applying for a Masters, it’s likely that you’ve already written a personal statement for a Bachelors degree and will have a good idea of how one works. Normally, a Masters personal statement won’t be wildly different to what you wrote back then.

You should say why you’re applying for this particular course and institution , talking about what makes it such an appealing place to study. Perhaps there’s a member of staff who you’re especially excited about working with, or a unique element of the curriculum that jumps out at you.

Demonstrate how and why you are invested in your subject. It’s important to mention your academic and employment history, explaining its impact on your choice of a postgraduate course.

What should I include in a Masters personal statement?

Give examples of some of the skills and experience you’ve developed at university or at work, and how they’ll help you succeed with a Masters degree. These could include:

• Time management
• Communication
• Internships
• Public engagement
• Conference attendance
• Relevant extracurricular activities

Your personal statement is an opportunity to write about your future career goals, and how you think this Masters will help you achieve them. You can also discuss preliminary ideas you might have for your Masters dissertation , giving the admissions tutor an indication of the specialist knowledge you have in your discipline.

If there are any significant gaps in your education or employment, you should offer a brief explanation of those extenuating situations (for example, illness or a gap year). Don’t dwell on any unfortunate circumstances though – always strike a positive, optimistic tone.

In most (but not all) cases, you’ll apply directly to the university for a Masters rather than through a centralised system like UCAS. This means you can tailor each personal statement to the institution and programme in question (rather than submitting a single personal statement for five courses, like at undergraduate level in the UK).

You don’t necessarily have to a completely new personal statement for each Masters programme you apply to (there will usually be a degree of overlap between them), but it’s worth putting the extra effort in to make sure your application doesn’t seem like a generic copy-and-paste job to the admissions tutor reading it. You can do this by mentioning the university and department by name, and by providing specific examples of their syllabus that you find intriguing. Pay attention to what makes this particular Masters unique and refer to this in your statement.

How long should a Masters personal statement be?

When writing a postgraduate personal statement, you should aim for a word count of around 500 words (one A4 side of text). Some universities will have more specific requirements, however – for example, they might ask you to submit your personal statement via a form on their website with a character limit.

The relatively short nature of a Masters personal statement means that you should focus on being as succinct as possible, getting straight to the point and avoiding unnecessary detail.

Frequently asked questions about Masters applications

If you have any other questions or concerns about applying for a Masters, our FAQ page features lots of useful information on the application process and beyond. Find out more .

How should I write a personal statement?

How you write your personal statement is just as important as the content; a clear, structured statement is proof of your ability to communicate effectively.

These are some of the most essential attributes of a successful postgraduate personal statement:

• Positive, enthusiastic language
• Professional tone of voice
• Compelling evidence to back up your claims
• Concise and clear sentences

Meanwhile, this is a list of the tendencies to avoid in your personal statement:

• Clichés – think of a way to put it that the admissions tutor won’t have seen lots of times before!
• Waffle – don’t use meandering, vague sentences
• Poor spelling and grammar – check, check and check again, running it past someone with a trustworthy pair of eyes

Don't : After falling in love with the Artemis Fowl series as a young child I have been driven to pursue the study of literature and I think your Masters would be the perfect place for me to continue my journey, given it’s world-leading status and your outstanding academic staff who’s expertise is aligned with my own personal interest in novels and poetry.

Do : Since graduating in 2015 with a First in Advertising from the University of Ogdenville, I’ve been working full-time as a copywriter for Hutz&co (one of Shelbyville’s largest marketing agencies). I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the company, learning a great deal about the importance of clear, compelling language. I’ve honed the communication skills I developed at university and feel well-equipped to continue my studies at North Haverbrook University.

Don’t make the mistake of using your undergraduate personal statement as a template for your Masters application. A Masters is a big step up from your undergraduate degree, and the admissions tutor will be looking for evidence that you’ve developed academically since then. Find out more about the differences between undergraduate and postgraduate courses .

Always give yourself enough time to complete your personal statement (and the application process in general) well before the deadline — don’t leave things to the last minute! It’s crucial to get another pair of eyes on your statement, so ask a friend or relative to proofread the text. It’s also worth checking if you have access to a careers adviser through your current (or previous) university who can help you with the application.

How should I structure a personal statement?

By carefully structuring your personal statement, you’ll present the admissions tutor with a logical and easy-to-follow text that shows exactly why you’re a perfect fit for a Masters. Make sure there’s a clear thread of argument linking each paragraph – avoid jumping from topic to topic.

Jot down a short plan before you begin working on the statement (don’t make it up as you go along!). In general, you should aim to write around five or six paragraphs, covering three broad categories:

• An attention-grabbing introduction that sums up your academic and employment background. Don’t be tempted to use a gimmicky inspirational quote or cheesy opener, you’ll stand out for all the wrong reasons!
• An engaging middle section that expands on your interests and provides concrete evidence of your strengths and skills.
• A concise conclusion that draws together the most important elements of your application and will leave a lasting, positive impression of your motivation for study on this particular Masters programme.

Bear in mind that admissions tutors will be reading dozens (if not hundreds) of personal statements. They’ll appreciate a well-organised, methodical text that signposts all the significant parts of your experience and skills.

Postgraduate personal statement examples

We’ve written a selection of postgraduate personal statement samples for several popular subjects.

If you’re working on a personal statement for your Masters application, hopefully they’ll give you some inspiration – but don’t forget that they’re certainly not a substitute for your own unique experiences and background!

• Business Studies
• Computer Science
• Data Science
• Engineering
• Forensic Psychology
• Graphic Design
• International Relations
• Library Science
• Public Administration
• Public Health

Want more advice on postgraduate applications?

Check out our full guide to applying for a Masters or visit our pages on entry requirements and postgraduate references .

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Thinking of applying for a Masters? Our guide explains the process, personal statements, references and deadlines for Masters applications.

The main requirement to apply for a Masters is usually a Bachelors degree in a relevant subject. Our guide explains the admissions requirements for postgraduate courses.

You may need a language certificate to apply for a Masters abroad. A range of tests are accepted in different countries around the world.

Applying for a Masters can feel a bit daunting. Here is a checklist of all the things you need to do to make sure you have everything covered in your Masters application.

Masters programmes are delivered in English at universities around the world, but you may need to submit a test score if this isn't your first language. Common tests include the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Cambridge English.

Find out more about how different graduate entry tests for Masters degrees work, with information on the GMAT, GRE and other admissions exams.

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Helping you get to where you want to be when you graduate

Top tips: personal statements for postgraduate study

So you’ve made the decision to apply for a postgraduate course and have researched the course and the university, what’s next .

A personal statement is your opportunity to showcase what you have to offer and convince the admissions tutor(s) that you have the motivation, relevant knowledge , and academic capability to successfully complete the course and reflect well on the institution.

Remember, when you have finished the first draft you can have it reviewed with one of our advisers via our Careers information and advice appointments . These can be booked via mycareer .

Best of luck!

Jenny Livesey, Careers Adviser

Before you begin

• Check whether the University admissions team has written instructions on what to include, word count, etc
• Unless there are contrary instructions, we recommend you write about 500 words, which equates to approximately 1 A4 page.

A personal statement should address these questions:

Why do you want to study this subject.

Begin your personal statement with some concise motivations . Be careful not to waste space here on general comments that anyone could make, such as that you are “hard-working” or “enthusiastic”. Both these characteristics should not need to be stated so instead spend some time reflecting on phrases that are more personal to why you are applying.

Think about specific experiences that have motivated you. Perhaps an inspirational talk you attended, a debate in the field that excites you, or the chance to make a real difference to the world. Remember, don’t just make claims either – ensure your motivations are always demonstrated by brief evidence . Here is an example of this and clearly reflects this applicant’s passion for the subject.

Example: My passion for transport planning was sparked when I attended a talk by John Nash at the Bristol Festival of Ideas in 2016. Inspired by the concept of modal shift as a means of reducing traffic congestion and therefore environmental pollution, I joined the Transport Planning Society and developed my understanding through their policy reports and attending regional events every month. I am now seeking to develop my knowledge through a Master’s in Transport.

Why have you chosen this specific course, at this specific institution?

Reflect on why you’re applying for this course and this institution. Consider what attracted you to it in the first place, and what continues to inspire you about it?

For the course, think about what makes it unique compared to other universities to show you understand what it’s about. What excites you about the units? The course structure. Perhaps you will get to study abroad? Or maybe it’s the reputation of the course within the field?

When it comes to the institution, avoid general statements like ‘you’re an internationally renowned university’, unfortunately, this will show a lack of research and imagination. Instead, choose something specific about the institution you’ve discovered when researching it. Is there an academic you’d love to work with? Do they have strong links with industry? State-of-the-art facilities?

Example: I am applying to the University of Bristol as I was inspired by the ground-breaking research led by Professor Joan Bateman into the impact of music on children’s development. I drew on the project’s unique interdisciplinary methodology combining musicology and psychology in my undergraduate dissertation and would relish the opportunity to contribute to the development of this research.

What are your plans?

Show the admissions tutor that you’re not just doing further study because you can’t think of anything else to do. Even if you have not fully planned your next career steps, a broad statement will suffice. The example here is very focused, however, it is also acceptable to cite a love of learning , passion for the subject, and developing further knowledge as your reason for applying for the course.

Example: As I aim to become an accountant, I am particularly attracted to your programme for two reasons: first, it offers the accreditation needed; and second the extensive practical experience opportunities will allow me to develop good practice in advance of joining the work force and enhance my employability.

Are you academically capable of taking this course?

Admissions tutors will be looking for evidence of academic capability as well as motivation. Show that you understand what’s required to take your subject further, and that you have been developing this knowledge within and outside of your degree.

A good place to start is a dissertation or extended project, as this will show your passion for a certain area and requires the development of advanced knowledge or skills. You should also think about relevant units you’ve taken, projects you’ve been part of any technical skills you’ve developed, and any prizes or scholarships you’ve won.

Example: Attending the weekly seminar series run by the Department of Classics developed my knowledge of Latin and its reception. In my third year I took two optional units on Latin language and founded a Latin reading group for non-classicists. As a result, my Latin is now B1 standard. These language skills will allow me to engage with primary material and contribute to class discussion.

Do you have any relevant work experience?

Key skills for postgraduate study can be demonstrated by a wide range of work experience. In some cases, relevant work experience might be obvious, but even work experience that seems irrelevant provides you with transferable skills . Consider what you’ve been doing outside of your degree and reflect on the skills you have been developing.

For more tips, do’s, and don’ts, visit the Further Study page of our website and have a look at Prospects postgraduate personal statement guide .

Adapted from an original blog post by Dr Tracy Johnson

How to write a personal statement

How to approach writing your personal statement for graduate applications.

If you’re applying for a grad course that requires a personal statement (sometimes also called a ‘statement of purpose’), it can be difficult to know where to start and what to include. Read on for tips from some of our masters’ students about their process and what they found helpful.

1. Before you start

The academic work is the most important reason why we’re here, but that also translates into work experiences, internships, volunteering. I think a big part of the personal statement is crafting that narrative of academic self that fits alongside your professional experiences, to give that greater picture of who you are as an academic. Lauren (MSc Modern Middle Eastern Studies)

Start by thinking about the skills, knowledge and interests you’ve acquired over time and how the course at Oxford will take them forward.

Your statement is the story you want to tell about yourself and your academic work to the department you are applying to.

Most of your application and its supporting documents communicate plain facts about your academic career so far. Your personal statement is your best opportunity to put these facts into context and show assessors how you’ve progressed and excelled.

Make sure you highlight evidence of your achievements (a high grade in a relevant area, an award or scholarship, a research internship).

Presenting yourself

When I was writing my personal statement, I went onto my course website. I looked at what they emphasised and what kind of students they were looking for, and I wrote about my experiences based on that. Kayla (MSc in Clinical Embryology)

Make it easy for an assessor to see how you meet the entry requirements for the course (you can find these on each course page ).

Don’t make any assumptions about what Oxford is looking for!

Get to know your department

You want to study this particular subject and you want to study at Oxford (you’re applying here, so we know that!) but why is Oxford the right place for you to study this subject? What interests or qualities of the academic department and its staff make it attractive to you?

Use your academic department’s website for an overview of their research, academic staff and course information (you'll find a link to the department's own website on each course page ).

I said, ‘why do I actually want to be here? What is it about being at Oxford that’s going to get me to what I want to do? Sarah (Bachelor of Civil Law)

Talk it out

Talking to others about your statement can be a great way to gather your ideas and decide how you’d like to approach it. Sarah even managed to get benefit out of this approach by herself:

“I spent a lot of time talking out loud. My written process was actually very vocal, so I did a lot of talking about myself in my room.”

2. The writing process

Know your format.

Make sure you’ve read all the guidance on the How to Apply section of your course page , so you know what’s needed in terms of the word count of the final statement, what it should cover and what it will be assessed for. This should help you to visualise roughly what you want to end up with at the end of the process.

Make a start

When it comes to writing your personal statement, just getting started can be the hardest part.

One good way to get around writer’s block is to just put it all down on the page, like Mayur.

First - write down anything and everything. In the first round, I was just dumping everything - whatever I’ve done, anything close to computer science, that was on my personal statement. Mayur (MSc Computer Science)

You’ll be editing later anyway so don’t let the blank page intimidate you - try writing a little under each of the following headings to get started:

• areas of the course at Oxford that are the most interesting to you
• which areas you’ve already studied or had some experience in
• what you hope to use your Oxford course experience for afterwards.

3. Finishing up

Get some feedback.

Once you’ve got a draft of about the right length, ask for feedback on what you’ve written. It might take several drafts to get it right.

This could involve getting in touch with some of your undergraduate professors to ask them to read your draft and find any areas which needed strengthening.

You could also show it to people who know you well, like family or friends.

Because they’re the first people to say, ‘Who is that person?’ You want the people around you to recognise that it really sounds like you. It can be scary telling family and friends you’re applying for Oxford, because it makes it real, but be brave enough to share it and get feedback on it. Sarah (Bachelor of Law)

Be yourself

Finally - be genuine and be yourself. Make sure your personal statement represents you, not your idea about what Oxford might be looking for.

We have thousands of students arriving every year from a huge range of subjects, backgrounds, institutions and countries (you can hear from a few more of them in our My Oxford interviews).

Get moving on your application today

To find out more about supporting documents and everything else you need to apply, read your course page and visit our Application Guide .

Applicant advice hub

This content was previously available through our  Applicant advice hub . The hub contained links to articles hosted on our  Graduate Study at Oxford Medium channel . We've moved the articles that support the application process into this new section of our website.

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Gre prep online guides and tips, 3 successful graduate school personal statement examples.

Looking for grad school personal statement examples? Look no further! In this total guide to graduate school personal statement examples, we’ll discuss why you need a personal statement for grad school and what makes a good one. Then we’ll provide three graduate school personal statement samples from our grad school experts. After that, we’ll do a deep dive on one of our personal statement for graduate school examples. Finally, we’ll wrap up with a list of other grad school personal statements you can find online.

Why Do You Need a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a chance for admissions committees to get to know you: your goals and passions, what you’ll bring to the program, and what you’re hoping to get out of the program.  You need to sell the admissions committee on what makes you a worthwhile applicant. The personal statement is a good chance to highlight significant things about you that don’t appear elsewhere on your application.

A personal statement is slightly different from a statement of purpose (also known as a letter of intent). A statement of purpose/letter of intent tends to be more tightly focused on your academic or professional credentials and your future research and/or professional interests.

While a personal statement also addresses your academic experiences and goals, you have more leeway to be a little more, well, personal. In a personal statement, it’s often appropriate to include information on significant life experiences or challenges that aren’t necessarily directly relevant to your field of interest.

Some programs ask for both a personal statement and a statement of purpose/letter of intent. In this case, the personal statement is likely to be much more tightly focused on your life experience and personality assets while the statement of purpose will focus in much more on your academic/research experiences and goals.

However, there’s not always a hard-and-fast demarcation between a personal statement and a statement of purpose. The two statement types should address a lot of the same themes, especially as relates to your future goals and the valuable assets you bring to the program. Some programs will ask for a personal statement but the prompt will be focused primarily on your research and professional experiences and interests. Some will ask for a statement of purpose but the prompt will be more focused on your general life experiences.

When in doubt, give the program what they are asking for in the prompt and don’t get too hung up on whether they call it a personal statement or statement of purpose. You can always call the admissions office to get more clarification on what they want you to address in your admissions essay.

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What Makes a Good Grad School Personal Statement?

A great graduate school personal statement can come in many forms and styles. However, strong grad school personal statement examples all share the same following elements:

A Clear Narrative

Above all, a good personal statement communicates clear messages about what makes you a strong applicant who is likely to have success in graduate school. So to that extent, think about a couple of key points that you want to communicate about yourself and then drill down on how you can best communicate those points. (Your key points should of course be related to what you can bring to the field and to the program specifically).

You can also decide whether to address things like setbacks or gaps in your application as part of your narrative. Have a low GPA for a couple semesters due to a health issue? Been out of a job for a while taking care of a family member? If you do decide to explain an issue like this, make sure that the overall arc is more about demonstrating positive qualities like resilience and diligence than about providing excuses.

Specific Examples

A great statement of purpose uses specific examples to illustrate its key messages. This can include anecdotes that demonstrate particular traits or even references to scholars and works that have influenced your academic trajectory to show that you are familiar and insightful about the relevant literature in your field.

Just saying “I love plants,” is pretty vague. Describing how you worked in a plant lab during undergrad and then went home and carefully cultivated your own greenhouse where you cross-bred new flower colors by hand is much more specific and vivid, which makes for better evidence.

A strong personal statement will describe why you are a good fit for the program, and why the program is a good fit for you. It’s important to identify specific things about the program that appeal to you, and how you’ll take advantage of those opportunities. It’s also a good idea to talk about specific professors you might be interested in working with. This shows that you are informed about and genuinely invested in the program.

Strong Writing

Even quantitative and science disciplines typically require some writing, so it’s important that your personal statement shows strong writing skills. Make sure that you are communicating clearly and that you don’t have any grammar and spelling errors. It’s helpful to get other people to read your statement and provide feedback. Plan on going through multiple drafts.

Another important thing here is to avoid cliches and gimmicks. Don’t deploy overused phrases and openings like “ever since I was a child.” Don’t structure your statement in a gimmicky way (i.e., writing a faux legal brief about yourself for a law school statement of purpose). The first will make your writing banal; the second is likely to make you stand out in a bad way.

Appropriate Boundaries

While you can be more personal in a personal statement than in a statement of purpose, it’s important to maintain appropriate boundaries in your writing. Don’t overshare anything too personal about relationships, bodily functions, or illegal activities. Similarly, don’t share anything that makes it seem like you may be out of control, unstable, or an otherwise risky investment. The personal statement is not a confessional booth. If you share inappropriately, you may seem like you have bad judgment, which is a huge red flag to admissions committees.

You should also be careful with how you deploy humor and jokes. Your statement doesn’t have to be totally joyless and serious, but bear in mind that the person reading the statement may not have the same sense of humor as you do. When in doubt, err towards the side of being as inoffensive as possible.

Just as being too intimate in your statement can hurt you, it’s also important not to be overly formal or staid. You should be professional, but conversational.

Graduate School Personal Statement Examples

Our graduate school experts have been kind enough to provide some successful grad school personal statement examples. We’ll provide three examples here, along with brief analysis of what makes each one successful.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 1

PDF of Sample Personal Statement 1 – Japanese Studies

For this Japanese Studies master’s degree, the applicant had to provide a statement of purpose outlining her academic goals and experience with Japanese and a separate personal statement describing her personal relationship with Japanese Studies and what led her to pursue a master’s degree.

Here’s what’s successful about this personal statement:

• An attention-grabbing beginning: The applicant begins with the statement that Japanese has never come easily to her and that it’s a brutal language to learn. Seeing as how this is an application for a Japanese Studies program, this is an intriguing beginning that makes the reader want to keep going.
• A compelling narrative: From this attention-grabbing beginning, the applicant builds a well-structured and dramatic narrative tracking her engagement with the Japanese language over time. The clear turning point is her experience studying abroad, leading to a resolution in which she has clarity about her plans. Seeing as how the applicant wants to be a translator of Japanese literature, the tight narrative structure here is a great way to show her writing skills.
• Specific examples that show important traits: The applicant clearly communicates both a deep passion for Japanese through examples of her continued engagement with Japanese and her determination and work ethic by highlighting the challenges she’s faced (and overcome) in her study of the language. This gives the impression that she is an engaged and dedicated student.

Overall, this is a very strong statement both in terms of style and content. It flows well, is memorable, and communicates that the applicant would make the most of the graduate school experience.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 2

PDF of Sample Graduate School Personal Statement 2 – Musical Composition

This personal statement for a Music Composition master’s degree discusses the factors that motivate the applicant to pursue graduate study.

Here’s what works well in this statement:

• The applicant provides two clear reasons motivating the student to pursue graduate study: her experiences with music growing up, and her family’s musical history. She then supports those two reasons with examples and analysis.
• The description of her ancestors’ engagement with music is very compelling and memorable. The applicant paints her own involvement with music as almost inevitable based on her family’s long history with musical pursuits.
• The applicant gives thoughtful analysis of the advantages she has been afforded that have allowed her to study music so extensively. We get the sense that she is insightful and empathetic—qualities that would add greatly to any academic community.

This is a strong, serviceable personal statement. And in truth, given that this for a masters in music composition, other elements of the application (like work samples) are probably the most important.  However, here are two small changes I would make to improve it:

• I would probably to split the massive second paragraph into 2-3 separate paragraphs. I might use one paragraph to orient the reader to the family’s musical history, one paragraph to discuss Giacomo and Antonio, and one paragraph to discuss how the family has influenced the applicant. As it stands, it’s a little unwieldy and the second paragraph doesn’t have a super-clear focus even though it’s all loosely related to the applicant’s family history with music.
• I would also slightly shorten the anecdote about the applicant’s ancestors and expand more on how this family history has motivated the applicant’s interest in music. In what specific ways has her ancestors’ perseverance inspired her? Did she think about them during hard practice sessions? Is she interested in composing music in a style they might have played? More specific examples here would lend greater depth and clarity to the statement.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 3

PDF of Sample Graduate School Personal Statement 3 – Public Health

This is my successful personal statement for Columbia’s Master’s program in Public Health. We’ll do a deep dive on this statement paragraph-by-paragraph in the next section, but I’ll highlight a couple of things that work in this statement here:

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• This statement is clearly organized. Almost every paragraph has a distinct focus and message, and when I move on to a new idea, I move on to a new paragraph with a logical transitions.
• This statement covers a lot of ground in a pretty short space. I discuss my family history, my goals, my educational background, and my professional background. But because the paragraphs are organized and I use specific examples, it doesn’t feel too vague or scattered.
• In addition to including information about my personal motivations, like my family, I also include some analysis about tailoring health interventions with my example of the Zande. This is a good way to show off what kinds of insights I might bring to the program based on my academic background.

Grad School Personal Statement Example: Deep Dive

Now let’s do a deep dive, paragraph-by-paragraph, on one of these sample graduate school personal statements. We’ll use my personal statement that I used when I applied to Columbia’s public health program.

Paragraph One: For twenty-three years, my grandmother (a Veterinarian and an Epidemiologist) ran the Communicable Disease Department of a mid-sized urban public health department. The stories of Grandma Betty doggedly tracking down the named sexual partners of the infected are part of our family lore. Grandma Betty would persuade people to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases, encourage safer sexual practices, document the spread of infection and strive to contain and prevent it. Indeed, due to the large gay population in the city where she worked, Grandma Betty was at the forefront of the AIDS crises, and her analysis contributed greatly towards understanding how the disease was contracted and spread. My grandmother has always been a huge inspiration to me, and the reason why a career in public health was always on my radar.

This is an attention-grabbing opening anecdote that avoids most of the usual cliches about childhood dreams and proclivities. This story also subtly shows that I have a sense of public health history, given the significance of the AIDs crisis for public health as a field.

It’s good that I connect this family history to my own interests. However, if I were to revise this paragraph again, I might cut down on some of the detail because when it comes down to it, this story isn’t really about me. It’s important that even (sparingly used) anecdotes about other people ultimately reveal something about you in a personal statement.

Paragraph Two: Recent years have cemented that interest. In January 2012, my parents adopted my little brother Fred from China. Doctors in America subsequently diagnosed Fred with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). My parents were told that if Fred’s condition had been discovered in China, the (very poor) orphanage in which he spent the first 8+ years of his life would have recognized his DMD as a death sentence and denied him sustenance to hasten his demise.

Here’s another compelling anecdote to help explain my interest in public health. This is an appropriately personal detail for a personal statement—it’s a serious thing about my immediate family, but it doesn’t disclose anything that the admissions committee might find concerning or inappropriate.

If I were to take another pass through this paragraph, the main thing I would change is the last phrase. “Denied him sustenance to hasten his demise” is a little flowery. “Denied him food to hasten his death” is actually more powerful because it’s clearer and more direct.

Paragraph Three: It is not right that some people have access to the best doctors and treatment while others have no medical care. I want to pursue an MPH in Sociomedical Sciences at Columbia because studying social factors in health, with a particular focus on socio-health inequities, will prepare me to address these inequities. The interdisciplinary approach of the program appeals to me greatly as I believe interdisciplinary approaches are the most effective way to develop meaningful solutions to complex problems.

In this paragraph I make a neat and clear transition from discussing what sparked my interest in public health and health equity to what I am interested in about Columbia specifically: the interdisciplinary focus of the program, and how that focus will prepare me to solve complex health problems. This paragraph also serves as a good pivot point to start discussing my academic and professional background.

Paragraph Four: My undergraduate education has prepared me well for my chosen career. Understanding the underlying structure of a group’s culture is essential to successfully communicating with the group. In studying folklore and mythology, I’ve learned how to parse the unspoken structures of folk groups, and how those structures can be used to build bridges of understanding. For example, in a culture where most illnesses are believed to be caused by witchcraft, as is the case for the Zande people of central Africa, any successful health intervention or education program would of necessity take into account their very real belief in witchcraft.

In this paragraph, I link my undergraduate education and the skills I learned there to public health. The (very brief) analysis of tailoring health interventions to the Zande is a good way to show insight and show off the competencies I would bring to the program.

Paragraph Five: I now work in the healthcare industry for one of the largest providers of health benefits in the world. In addition to reigniting my passion for data and quantitative analytics, working for this company has immersed me in the business side of healthcare, a critical component of public health.

This brief paragraph highlights my relevant work experience in the healthcare industry. It also allows me to mention my work with data and quantitative analytics, which isn’t necessarily obvious from my academic background, which was primarily based in the social sciences.

Paragraph Six: I intend to pursue a PhD in order to become an expert in how social factors affect health, particularly as related to gender and sexuality. I intend to pursue a certificate in Sexuality, Sexual Health, and Reproduction. Working together with other experts to create effective interventions across cultures and societies, I want to help transform health landscapes both in America and abroad.

This final paragraph is about my future plans and intentions. Unfortunately, it’s a little disjointed, primarily because I discuss goals of pursuing a PhD before I talk about what certificate I want to pursue within the MPH program! Switching those two sentences and discussing my certificate goals within the MPH and then mentioning my PhD plans would make a lot more sense.

I also start two sentences in a row with “I intend,” which is repetitive.

The final sentence is a little bit generic; I might tailor it to specifically discuss a gender and sexual health issue, since that is the primary area of interest I’ve identified.

This was a successful personal statement; I got into (and attended!) the program. It has strong examples, clear organization, and outlines what interests me about the program (its interdisciplinary focus) and what competencies I would bring (a background in cultural analysis and experience with the business side of healthcare). However, a few slight tweaks would elevate this statement to the next level.

Graduate School Personal Statement Examples You Can Find Online

So you need more samples for your personal statement for graduate school? Examples are everywhere on the internet, but they aren’t all of equal quality.

Most of examples are posted as part of writing guides published online by educational institutions. We’ve rounded up some of the best ones here if you are looking for more personal statement examples for graduate school.

Penn State Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School

This selection of ten short personal statements for graduate school and fellowship programs offers an interesting mix of approaches. Some focus more on personal adversity while others focus more closely on professional work within the field.

The writing in some of these statements is a little dry, and most deploy at least a few cliches. However, these are generally strong, serviceable statements that communicate clearly why the student is interested in the field, their skills and competencies, and what about the specific program appeals to them.

Cal State Sample Graduate School Personal Statements

These are good examples of personal statements for graduate school where students deploy lots of very vivid imagery and illustrative anecdotes of life experiences. There are also helpful comments about what works in each of these essays.

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However, all of these statements are definitely pushing the boundaries of acceptable length, as all are above 1000 and one is almost 1500 words! Many programs limit you to 500 words; if you don’t have a limit, you should try to keep it to two single-spaced pages at most (which is about 1000 words).

University of Chicago Personal Statement for Graduate School Examples

These examples of successful essays to the University of Chicago law school cover a wide range of life experiences and topics. The writing in all is very vivid, and all communicate clear messages about the students’ strengths and competencies.

Note, however, that these are all essays that specifically worked for University of Chicago law school. That does not mean that they would work everywhere. In fact, one major thing to note is that many of these responses, while well-written and vivid, barely address the students’ interest in law school at all! This is something that might not work well for most graduate programs.

Wheaton College Personal Statement for Graduate School Sample 10

This successful essay for law school from a Wheaton College undergraduate does a great job tracking the student’s interest in the law in a compelling and personal way. Wheaton offers other graduate school personal statement examples, but this one offers the most persuasive case for the students’ competencies. The student accomplishes this by using clear, well-elaborated examples, showing strong and vivid writing, and highlighting positive qualities like an interest in justice and empathy without seeming grandiose or out of touch.

Wheaton College Personal Statement for Graduate School Sample 1

Based on the background information provided at the bottom of the essay, this essay was apparently successful for this applicant. However, I’ve actually included this essay because it demonstrates an extremely risky approach. While this personal statement is strikingly written and the story is very memorable, it could definitely communicate the wrong message to some admissions committees. The student’s decision not to report the drill sergeant may read incredibly poorly to some admissions committees. They may wonder if the student’s failure to report the sergeant’s violence will ultimately expose more soldiers-in-training to the same kinds of abuses. This incident perhaps reads especially poorly in light of the fact that the military has such a notable problem with violence against women being covered up and otherwise mishandled

It’s actually hard to get a complete picture of the student’s true motivations from this essay, and what we have might raise real questions about the student’s character to some admissions committees. This student took a risk and it paid off, but it could have just as easily backfired spectacularly.

Key Takeaways: Graduate School Personal Statement Examples

In this guide, we discussed why you need a personal statement and how it differs from a statement of purpose. (It’s more personal!)

We also discussed what you’ll find in a strong sample personal statement for graduate school:

• A clear narrative about the applicant and why they are qualified for graduate study.
• Specific examples to support that narrative.
• Compelling reasons why the applicant and the program are a good fit for each other.
• Strong writing, including clear organization and error-free, cliche-free language.
• Appropriate boundaries—sharing without over-sharing.

Then, we provided three strong graduate school personal statement examples for different fields, along with analysis. We did a deep-dive on the third statement.

Finally, we provided a list of other sample grad school personal statements online.

What’s Next?

Want more advice on writing a personal statement ? See our guide.

Writing a graduate school statement of purpose? See our statement of purpose samples  and a nine-step process for writing the best statement of purpose possible .

If you’re writing a graduate school CV or resume, see our how-to guide to writing a CV , a how-to guide to writing a resume , our list of sample resumes and CVs , resume and CV templates , and a special guide for writing resume objectives .

Need stellar graduate school recommendation letters ? See our guide.

See our 29 tips for successfully applying to graduate school .

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Author: Ellen McCammon

Ellen is a public health graduate student and education expert. She has extensive experience mentoring students of all ages to reach their goals and in-depth knowledge on a variety of health topics. View all posts by Ellen McCammon

Writing your personal statement

A personal statement is your chance to tell us what motivates you and why you’re suitable for your chosen programme.

Please note

you cannot amend your personal statement once you have submitted your application

Where to put a personal statement

You can type your personal statement in the online application form (3,000-character limit, including spaces) or upload it as a separate document. If you upload your personal statement, you can go over 3,000 characters but it cannot be longer than two sides of A4 paper (size 12 font and single spaced).

You should consider the following questions when writing your personal statement

• Why do you want to undertake the programme or research?
• What are your academic interests?
• Why do you wish to study at UCL?
• What educational experience do you have?
• Do you have any relevant work experience?
• Have you completed any extracurricular or voluntary activities relevant to the programme?
• What are your career aspirations?

Some programmes ask for programme-specific information in your personal statement. Check your programme in the Graduate Prospectus for details.

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M.S. in Data Science

The m.s. in data science allows students to apply data science techniques to their field of interest..

Ours is one of the most highly-rated and sought-after advanced data science programs in the world.

Program Highlights

Columbia data science students have the opportunity to conduct original research, produce a capstone project , and interact with our industry partners and world-class faculty.

This program is jointly offered in collaboration with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Statistics, and The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science’s Department of Computer Science and Department of Industrial Engineering and Operations Research.

Some students are primarily concerned about data ethics, others are excited about data science as a new evolution in knowledge, but all are interested in how data science is changing our everyday lives.

Where are columbia data science graduates now*.

  *A partial list as of May 2022

Computer Science

Prerequisites: Students are expected to have solid programming experience in Python or with an equivalent programming language. This class is intended to be accessible for students who do not necessarily have a background in databases, operating systems or distributed systems. The goal of this class is to provide data scientists and engineers that work with big data a better understanding of the foundations of how the systems they will be using are built. It will also give them a better understanding of the real-world performance, availability and scalability challenges when using and deploying these systems at scale. In the course we will cover foundational ideas in designing these systems, while focusing on specific popular systems that students are likely to encounter at work or when doing research. 

Spring Semester: 3 credits

COMS 4721 is a graduate-level introduction to machine learning. The course covers basic statistical principles of supervised machine learning, as well as some common algorithmic paradigms. Additional topics, such as representation learning and online learning, may be covered if time permits.

Prerequisites: Background in linear algebra and probability and statistics.

Methods for organizing data, e.g. hashing, trees, queues, lists, priority queues. Streaming algorithms for computing statistics on the data. Sorting and searching. Basic graph models and algorithms for searching, shortest paths, and matching. Dynamic programming. Linear and convex programming. Floating point arithmetic, stability of numerical algorithms, Eigenvalues, singular values, PCA, gradient descent, stochastic gradient descent, and block coordinate descent. Conjugate gradient, Newton and quasi-Newton methods. Large scale applications from signal processing, collaborative filtering, recommendations systems, etc.

Prerequisites: basic knowledge in programming (e.g., at the level of COMS W1007), a basic grounding in calculus and linear algebra.

Engineering

Prerequisites: CSOR W4246 Algorithms for Data Science, STAT W4105 Probability, COMS W4121 Computer Systems for Data Science, or equivalent as approved by faculty advisor. Co-requisites: to be completed alongside or after: STAT W4702 Statistical Inference and Modeling, COMS W4721 Machine Learning for Data Science, STAT W4701 Exploratory Data Analysis and Visualization, or equivalent as approved by faculty advisor.

This course provides a unique opportunity for students in the M.S. in Data Science program to apply their knowledge of the foundations, theory and methods of data science to address data science problems in industry, government and the non-profit sector. The course activities focus on a semester-length data science project sponsored by a faculty member or local organization. The project synthesizes the statistical, computational, engineering challenges and social issues involved in solving complex real-world problems.

Fall and Spring Semesters: 3 credits

This course covers the following topics: Fundamentals of probability theory and statistical inference used in data science; Probabilistic models, random variables, useful distributions, expectations, law of large numbers, central limit theorem; Statistical inference; point and confidence interval estimation, hypothesis tests, linear regression.

Prerequisite: Calculus.

Prerequisite: Programming, fundamentals of data visualization, layered grammar of graphics, perception of discrete and continuous variables, introduction to Mondran, mosaic pots, parallel coordinate plots, introduction to ggobi, linked pots, brushing, dynamic graphics, model visualization, clustering and classification.

Course covers fundamentals of statistical inference and testing, and gives an introduction to statistical modeling. The first half of the course will be focused on inference and testing, covering topics such as maximum likelihood estimates, hypothesis testing, likelihood ratio test, Bayesian inference, etc. The second half of the course will provide introduction to statistical modeling via introductory lectures on linear regression models, generalized linear regression models, nonparametric regression, and statistical computing. Throughout the course, real-data examples will be used in lecture discussion and homework problems.

Prerequisites: Working knowledge of calculus and linear algebra (vectors and matrices) and STAT GR5203 or equivalent.

In addition to the 21 credits of core classes, M.S. in Data Science students are required to complete a minimum of nine (9) credits of electives. In addition to the DSI elective courses, MS students are encouraged to explore courses offered across the university and take advantage of the expertise in a wide range of disciplines at Columbia. Prior to registration, students receive advisement to determine if a course of interest is relevant and meets the criteria of a 4000-level or higher, technical course completed for a letter grade. You are welcome to explore the  Columbia Directory of Classes  for possible courses.

The following courses are examples of classes that MS students have used for elective credit. Elective courses and schedules are dependent on faculty availability and may vary each semester. Past course offerings are not guaranteed to be offered in the future.

Please note that many departments, including DSI, give registration priority to their students. Space permitting, courses are then opened up to students outside the department.

This class offers a hands-on approach to machine learning and data science. The class discusses the application of machine learning methods like SVMs, Random Forests, Gradient Boosting and neural networks on real world dataset, including data preparation, model selection and evaluation. This class complements COMS W4721 in that it relies entirely on available open source implementations in scikit-learn and tensor flow for all implementations. Apart from applying models, we will also discuss software development tools and practices relevant to productionizing machine learning models.

This course provides a practical, hands-on introduction to Deep Learning. We aim to help students understand the fundamentals of neural networks (DNNs, CNNs, and RNNs), and prepare students to successfully apply them in practice. This course will be taught using open-source software, including TensorFlow 2.0. In addition to covering the fundamental methods, we will discuss the rapidly developing space of frameworks and applications, including deep learning on the web. This course includes an emphasis on fairness and testing, and teaches best practices with these in mind.

Data scientists often have to answer questions that will lead to decisions about actions a company might take. Often, they will be able to run an experiment, and see the effect the decision might have by testing it first.  Other times, they will only have observational data at their disposal. In both cases, they need to infer the causal effect of an action on some outcomes of interest. Causal inference is an essential skill for a data scientist. Without a proper understanding, potential biases as large as 1000% have been observed in practice! This course will cover the basics of the potential outcomes framework, the Pearlian framework, and a collection of methods for observational and experimental causal inference. We’ll use examples from industry applications throughout the course, especially focused on web applications.

“Data analytics pipeline” focuses on the intersection between data science, data engineering, and agile product development. In this course you’ll learn some common data generating processes, how the data is transported to be stored, how analytics and compute capabilities are built on top of that storage, and how production machine learning and modeling platforms can be built in that context. There is a strong focus on good architecture design patterns, and practical implementation considerations that focus on delivering results over building perfect systems

This course is designed as an introduction to elements that constitutes the skill set of a data scientist. The course will focus on the utility of these elements in common tasks of a data scientist, rather than their theoretical formulation and properties. The course provides a foundation of basic theory and methodology with applied examples to analyze large engineering, business, and social data for data science problems. Hands-on experiments with R or Python will be emphasized.

The world is full of noise and uncertainty. To make sense of it, we collect data and ask questions. Is there a tumor in this x-ray scan? What affects the quality of my manufacturing plant? How old is this planet I see through the telescope? Does this drug actually work? To pose and answer such questions, data scientists must iterate through a cycle: probabilistically model a system, infer hidden patterns from data, and evaluate how well our model describes reality. By the end of this course, you will learn how to use probabilistic programming to effectively iterate through this cycle. Specifically, you will master modeling real-world phenomena using probability models, using advanced algorithms to infer hidden patterns from data, and evaluating the effectiveness of your analysis. You will learn to use (and perhaps even contribute to) Edward throughout this course.

This applied Natural Language Processing course will focus on computational methods for extracting social and interactional meaning from large volumes of text and speech (both traditional media and social media). Topics will include:

• Sentiment Analysis: automatic detection of people’s sentiment towards a topic, event, product, or persons. Practical applications in various domains will be discussed (e.g., predicting stock market prices, or presidential elections)
• Emotion and Mood Analysis: automatic detection of people’s emotions (angry, sad, happy) by analyzing various media such as books, emails, lyrics, online discussion forums. Practical applications in various domains (such as predicting depression, categorization of songs)
• Belief Analysis and Hedging: automatic detection of people’s beliefs (committed belief and non-committed beliefs) from social media. Analysis of the use of hedging as a communicative device in various media: online discussions, scientific writing or legal discussions.
• Deception Detection (e.g., detecting fake reviews online, or deceptive speech in court proceedings)
• Argumentation Mining: automatic detection of arguments from text, such as online discussion or persuasive essays. Practical application for various domains (e.g., political, legal or education (e.g., improving students’ skills in writing persuasive essays)
• Social Power: automatic detection of power structure in organizations by analyzing people’s communications such as emails.
• Extracting Social Networks from text, such as networks of characters from novels, or networks from social media (e.g., people holding particular opinions, or network of friends).
• Personality and Interpersonal Stance

Contact DSI at [email protected] for more information about this course.

Personalization is a key tool for enhancing customer experience across industries, thereby driving user loyalty and customer value. It is therefore no surprise that creating and enhancing personalization systems is also increasingly one of the core responsibilities of data science teams, and a key focus for many of the machine learning algorithms in the sector. This course will focus on common personalization algorithms and theory, including behavior-based and content-based recommendation, commonly encountered issues in scaling and cold-starts, and state of the art research. It will also look at how businesses use, and misuse, these techniques in real world applications.

The vast proliferation of data and increasing technological complexities continue to transform the way industries operate and compete. Over the last two years, 90 percent of the data in the world has been created as a result of the creation of 2.5 quintillion bytes of data on a daily basis. Commonly referred to as big data, this rapid growth and storage creates opportunities for collection, processing and analysis of structured and unstructured data. Financial services, in particular, have widely adopted big data analytics to inform better investment decisions with consistent returns. In conjunction with big data, algorithmic trading uses vast historical data with complex mathematical models to maximize portfolio returns. The continued adoption of big data will inevitably transform the landscape of financial services. However, along with its apparent benefits, significant challenges remain in regards to big data’s ability to capture the mounting volume of data. The increasing volume of market data poses a big challenge for financial institutions. Along with vast historical data, banking and capital markets need to actively manage ticker data. Likewise, investment banks and asset management firms use voluminous data to make sound investment decisions. Insurance and retirement firms can access past policy and claims information for active risk management. The course will be a mix of Theory and practice with real big data cases in finance. We will invite guest lecturers mostly for real Big Data Finance Applications. We will give MATLAB, R, or Python examples.

The course focuses on translating technical expertise into work-place solutions by teaching students to: (1) identify relevant shortfalls in traditional processes; (2) precisely match datasets and machine learning features to overcome these shortfalls; (3) narrowly define value to fit work place processes, analytical framework, and bottom line.  Each class will be structured as an actual end-to-end work-place project and use concrete examples to teach students to design, build and deliver solutions that integrate these considerations. A combination of assignments, presentation, and research paper will be sued to evaluation students’ progress in bridging technical and applied solutions with evaluation criteria matching those of a work-place project.

Images are everywhere. How to deal with image data, especially with big data, is an urgent problem for data analysts.  Machine learning has proven to be a powerful technology to process and analyze such big data.  The course will discuss how machine learning methods are use in the field of image analysis, including biometrics (iris and face recognition), natural images (object identification/recognition), brain images (encoding and decoding), and handwritten digit recognition.  Students will learn how to sue traditional machine learning methods in image data processing and analysis, and develop techniques to improve these methods.  The aim of this course is to prepare students with basis knowledge and skills to explore opportunities using machine learning in the field of image analysis.

Cross-Registration

• Instructions for Non-Data Science Students Please note that Data Science students have priority registration, so enrollment will be dependent on the space available after our student registration. Non-Data Science students will be able to register/join a waitlist via SSOL starting  August 29th  for  Fall 2023 .  Please be sure to obtain your program advisor approval before enrolling.  The Fall 2023 Change of Program Period is Tuesday, September 5, 2023 through Friday, September 15, 2023

I wanted to be at an institution that would truly challange me and put me at the forefront of growing areas of research in data science. Columbia promised the most rigorous and innovative curriculum on the planet...I knew the educational experience here would be like no other.

Kevin Womack

Class of 2021

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Capstone Projects

All of our students complete capstone projects with industry affiliates and thought leaders.

• How To Write Your Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate study

• Qualification types
• What are the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement?
• Why study postgraduate?

What's on this page?

What is a personal statement, preparing to write your personal statement, opening your personal statement, work experience and future plans, ending your personal statement.

Your postgraduate personal statement is your chance to get noticed for your expertise and experience you’ve gathered. It’s an important part of the application process as it allows you to talk about yourself and your passions and prove the value you can bring to your chosen university.

In this article, we’re going to talk you through how to write a postgraduate personal statement that stands out and gives you the best chance of being offered a place on the master’s programme you’re applying for. 

Shona Barrie – Director of Admissions, University of Stirling

You’ll have already written a personal statement for your undergraduate study, so you’ll know the importance of preparation. There are two things to think about when you’re planning:

• The practical and factual information you need to get across.
• Then, the more emotional, human parts of you that make you different to everyone else. 

Before you start writing, take some time to think about the key things you’d want your chosen university to know about you, and get them down on paper.

Questions to focus your mind

• Why have you chosen this master’s programme?
• Why are you passionate about this subject matter? 
• How has your undergraduate study influenced your decision to apply?
• Have you got any work experience that might help you?
• What life experiences have you had that you could talk about?
• What achievements can you talk about to support your application?
• Why do you want to study at this particular university?
• What plans and ambitions do you have for your future career?

Three top tips

Be specific.

Remember that a postgraduate personal statement needs you to talk specifically about the university you’ve chosen.

Demonstrate experience

Universities will be looking for postgraduate students who are able to demonstrate expertise in a particular subject – so include that.

Show what you've learnt

Tell the university about your university life as an undergraduate and include any clubs or societies you were involved in.

Admissions tutors will be reading a lot of personal statements so it’s important to grab their attention right from the start. 

You can find a full guide on How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber but here are the main things for you to think about. 

• Don’t overthink the opening . Just start by showing your enthusiasm for the subject, showcasing your knowledge and understanding, and sharing your ambitions of what you want to achieve.
• Avoid cliches . Remember, this opening part is simply about introducing yourself, so let the admissions tutor reading your personal statement get to know you. 
• Keep it relevant and simple . You’re limited on how much you can include so avoid long-winded explanations. Why use 50 words when ten can make your point?

Talking about the course

Now you’re ready to start talking about the course and subject you’re applying for.

There are four main areas you’ll need to cover in this section of your personal statement. 

• Why are you applying for this master’s?  Think about your undergraduate study and how this master’s will develop your expertise further. Do you have career aspirations this course will help you achieve?
• Why does the subject interest you? This is your chance to show your passion and really demonstrate who you are. If you have work or volunteering experiences related to the subject, include them here.
• Why do you think you’ll be an asset to the university?  Your personal and practical skills combined together create a unique picture of who you are and why you’ll be a successful postgraduate student, so include both. 
• How does your previous undergraduate study relate to the course? Showcase your enthusiasm for your current study and take the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and knowledge now, and how you want to build on that. 

Next, you’ll need to write about your personal skills and achievements.

Universities like to know the abilities you have that’ll help you on the course, or generally with life at university. Don’t forget to include evidence to back up why you’re so passionate about the programme you’ve chosen.

Your personal skills and achievements

Be bold and talk about the achievements you’re proud of., include positions of responsibility you hold, or have held, both in and out of school., what are the things that make you interesting, special, or unique .

Your work experience and future plans are important to include in your personal statement. You should share details of jobs, placements, work experience, or voluntary work, particularly if it's relevant to your course. 

• Try to link any experience to skills or qualities that’ll make you successful on your course.
• If you know what you’d like to do after as a career, explain how you plan to use the knowledge and experience you’ll gain.

It’s always good to connect the beginning of your statement to the end and a great way to reinforce what you said at the start. You want to see the ending as your chance to end in a way that’ll make the university remember you. 

This final part of your personal statement should emphasise the great points you’ve already made and answer the question of why you should be offered a place on the course. 

Read our full guide on How to finish your statement the right way .

Aakriti Labra – MSc Occupational and Organisational Psychology, University of Surrey

Now you’ve written your postgraduate personal statement, you’ll need to do a couple of final things before you submit it. 

• Have you proofread your personal statement? Don’t just rely on spellcheckers. We’d recommend reading it out loud as that’s a great way to spot any errors as well as checking it sounds like you. 
• Have you asked for feedback? Ask friends, family or your undergraduate university tutors to have a read through your personal statement and take their feedback on board.
• Check out our personal statement dos and don'ts Have a look at the common pitfalls against your final draft to make sure you haven't made any obvious errors!

Postgraduate

More advice.

Use the UCAS’ personal statement tool alongside this guide to help you structure your ideas.

Do you want to understand the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement? Take a look at our guide here.

Why study a postgraduate course? Find out here.  

What funding is there for postgraduate courses?  

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Five reasons to sign up to the ucas newsletter, how to find a job, student finance for postgraduate loans.

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Postgraduate Personal Statement Examples

What is a postgraduate personal statement?

A postgraduate personal statement is a piece of creative writing that should tell the universities you are applying to all about your strengths and where you see yourself in the future.

It should give admissions tutors a good idea of who you are and why you would make a valuable candidate for their course.

Remember that a postgraduate course is a higher level of study than an undergraduate degree, so be prepared to share your knowledge and expertise in your chosen subject.

How do I write a postgraduate personal statement?

We always recommend starting your postgraduate personal statement by brainstorming ideas. Your notes should cover the following:

• achievements
• academic results
• part-time or Saturday jobs
• volunteering
• wider reading
• extracurricular activities

as well as anything else you can think of that is relevant to the course you are applying for.

Take a look through our collection of postgraduate personal statement examples above to give yourself an idea of what a successful statement looks like.

Once you have put together an initial draft, it's a good idea to ask for feedback from family, friends and tutors. They will be able to look at your statement objectively and suggest ways it could be improved.

Incorporate their comments, and ask for further feedback. Don't worry if you have to do this three or four times - it's important you get your statement as perfect as possible before sending it off on your UCAS form.

What should I include in my postgraduate personal statement?

• Look at the content of the course and make sure your statement addresses the specific apect(s) you are interested in.
• Talk about your motivations for wanting to study the course and mention any projects you've completed, awards you've received or other achievements.
• Demonstrate important skillls that are required for a postgraduate course, e.g. problem-solving, teamwork, analytical, communication etc. Talk about how you have developed these, either at school/college, at your job or during hobbies or other activities.
• Most applicants spend the opening of their statement talking about why they want to study a postgraduate course in their subject, e.g. to improve their career prospects, or as a stepping stone to a PhD.
• Don’t include any over-used phrases or quotes in your statement that university admissions tutors will have seen and heard before.
• Now is also not the time for jokes or humour - it often doesn't work well and admissions tutors might not be impressed!
• Pay attention to detail and use good vocabulary and grammar throughout.
• Try to keep the tone positive and enthusiastic - tutors want to see passionate students that will be a valuable asset to their department.
• Start writing your personal statement as soon as you know which course you want to apply for and which universities you want to approach.

For more help and advice on what to write in your postgraduate personal statement, please see:

• Personal Statement Editing Services
• Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
• Analysis Of A Personal Statement
• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
• Personal Statement FAQs
• Personal Statement Timeline
• 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
• What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

How long is a postgraduate personal statement?

A postgraduate personal statement is normally around 500 words long, which is roughly one side of A4. Some universities may require more, such as up two sides. Other institutions also set a character limit instead of a specific word count, so check the guidelines before you start writing.

Postgraduate personal statements shouldn't include personal information that is already elsewhere on your UCAS form. Instead, focus on why you want to study a particular postgraduate course and your potential to successfully complete your studies.

How do I structure my postgraduate personal statement?

Your Masters personal statement should have a clear, logical structure, where the paragraphs flow coherently from one to the next.

For the opening paragraph, you should try to grab the admission tutor's attention with an positive and passionate introduction that tells admission tutors why you want to study this course.

Your middle paragraphs should tell the reader all about your knowledge and skills and demonstrate why this course is the next step for you.

Around half of the main body should focus on you and your interests, and the other half about the course content and where you hope it will take you in the future.

Your conclusion should round off your statement by explaining why you are a great candidate. Most students aim to write between four and six paragraphs in total, although remember not to waffle - every word needs to count!

It's a good idea to mention any potential red flags, such as a gap in your education history, or low grades at school or college, and explain the reasons why as positively as possible.

For example, talk about how you plan to increase your wider reading to make up for your lower than expected exam results, or how you spent a year out from education volunteering at a local animal centre.

Most postgraduate applications are submitted online via the UCAS Postgraduate service or directly through the university's website. If you are doing the latter, make sure it is formatted correctly before submitting it.

How do I begin my postgraduate personal statement?

The first rule here is not to include any typically over-used phrases such as "since a young age" or "I have always wanted to be a...".

Remember that admission tutors read hundreds of statements every week, so you need to cut to the chase and grab their attention straight away.

Looking through some of our postgraduate personal staetment examples will inspire you, and help give you an idea of what makes a good opening sentence.

How do I conclude my postgraduate personal statement?

Your conclusion is just as important as your opening, so it's worth spending as much time as you can rounding your statement off with something memorable.

Talk about your ambitions and how you hope your postgraduate course will allow you to achive your career ambitions.

The end of your statement should also include a concise summary of why you are a good fit for the course.

Keep it succinct and on point, and think about why you will be a valuable asset to the university. After all, you are up against many other candidates, so why should the tutors offer you a place over them?

Once you've completed an initial draft, including an opening, middle and end, make sure you pass it on to family, friends or anyone else that can provide feedback.

You can then incorporate any suggestions or comments to try and improve it.

Be aware that it will probably take at least three or four rounds of revisions before you have a final, polished draft.

If you follow these tips your personal statement should leave a lasting impression.

Where can I find more information about postgraduate personal statements and applying for a course?

There are lots of great resources out there with tips and advice on postgraduate university personal statements and UCAS applications, including:

• Should I apply for a postgraduate course?
• Types of postgraduate course
• Writing a postgraduate personal statement
• Benefits of postgraduate study
• Postgraduate entry requirements
• Research vs Taught Masters
• Taught Masters
• Research Masters
• UCAS Postgraduate Applications
• FindAMasters

Related resources

How to write a masters statement.

Find out more

Masters Personal Statement Tips

Should I Do A Masters?

Types Of Postgraduate Degree

Research Vs Taught Masters

Choosing A Postgrad University

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7 Ways To Fail A Graduate Interview

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Welcome from the Government Chief Scientific Adviser

Welcome to our guide on government science systems. Here you will find more information about the role that science and technology play in government and ideas for how you can use your expertise to make an impact on national priorities. This can range from responding to one of the government’s areas of research interest to undertaking an internship, fellowship or apprenticeship. Perhaps you are open to a more formal commitment by becoming a member of one of our expert advisory committees or applying to work in a government department? Whatever stage of your career, I encourage you to explore the various opportunities and get involved. 

Professor Dame Angela McLean Government Chief Scientific Adviser

Some of the ways in which academics and other experts can engage with government 

There are lots of ways you can engage with government depending on the stage you are at in your career, the depth of your expertise, and the breadth of your experience. Different routes may appeal to you, depending on the time you have available and the level of formal commitment you are able to make.

Government Office for Science 

The Government Office for Science advises the Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet to ensure that government policies and decisions are informed by the best scientific evidence and strategic long-term thinking. We routinely work with universities, learned societies and research institutes. We offer various placements, welcome interest in secondments, and our roles are advertised on Civil Service Jobs. You can find out more here .

STEM apprenticeships

Within government science and engineering, there are more than 40 STEM -related apprenticeships available, from a level 2 in engineering through to a level 7 research scientist apprenticeship. Participating in a STEM apprenticeship is not merely a training activity; it is a transformative journey towards personal and professional growth regardless of your career stage. It allows you to progress your skills and expand your knowledge while contributing to the development of those skills within your own team and department. Vacancies for apprenticeships in science or engineering are available on  Civil Service Jobs . To find out more, contact the GSE Profession .

Science and Engineering Fast Stream 

Society faces many challenges which science can help solve. The Civil Service needs highly talented, versatile, and numerate science and engineering leaders to deliver on exciting and challenging work that will make a difference to the lives of people across the UK. 

You may be a science or engineering postgraduate straight out of university, an experienced postgraduate academic, a seasoned industry professional or an existing civil servant with a technical background. Join the Science and Engineering Fast Stream and you will become part of a modern, vibrant and active community of professionals with one goal in common: to give back to the communities they serve. 

Find out more here.   

Government Science & Engineering ( GSE ) Profession 

The GSE Profession is a diverse cross-government group of people who are connected to science and engineering either by their role, skillset or interests. The profession has around 10,000 members across the civil, public and crown services and aims to help everyone embed science and engineering in government decision-making and increase the capability of scientists and engineers across government. 

Departments advertise these science and engineering roles on the Civil Service Jobs portal . For more information, visit the GSE blog . 

UKRI Internships 

As part of UK Research and Innovation’s ( UKRI ) postgraduate training portfolio, the UKRI Policy Internships scheme provides an opportunity for UKRI -funded doctoral students to undertake a three-month placement at one of a selected group of influential policy organisations. 

The placements involve carrying out research, drafting briefing and background papers, and organising workshops and meetings. The intention of the scheme is to embed students in an environment where they can engage with the process of converting research outputs into policy.  

Currently, the scheme supports on average 125 internships per year across all host partners. More information here . 

STEM Futures 

STEM Futures is a partnership of organisations across industry, academia, and the public sector. It provides interchange opportunities like shadowing, placements and mentoring, both inside and outside of government, with a view to building civil servants’ knowledge in specific STEM areas, enabling them to learn directly from experts from various backgrounds. Want to get involved? Learn more here . 

DSIT Expert Exchange 

The Expert Exchange has been set up to overhaul the way secondees are brought into government, in order to bring cutting-edge expertise from UK academia and industry to drive momentum on some of the most important research and technologies of the future, from quantum and data science to semiconductors and life sciences. It also aims to cement the links between the science, tech and research sectors, and government, as the secondees gain first-hand experience of working within a government department on placements of up to 9 months. Initially working with the Royal Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering to identify high-performing, mid-career academics and engineers, the Expert Exchange will embed science and tech sector experts into DSIT policy. More information here . 

UKRI Policy Fellowships 

Policy fellowships are aimed at early- to mid-career academics. UKRI provides funding to eligible academics for an 18-month fellowship embedded in a UK or devolved government host organisation to collaborate on research activity to address pressing national and global challenges. The scheme aims to enable researchers and policymakers to collaborate and build relationships that are rich, deep and can be sustained. More information here . Some universities run their own schemes – please check with your organisation. 

Areas of Research Interest 

Areas of Research Interest ( ARIs ) are documents produced and published by UK Government departments, agencies, and arm’s-length bodies. This document is used to articulate the topics and research questions where evidence, collaboration, and/or further research could be valuable to departments. ARIs are a catalyst for engagement between policy officials, analysts, scientific advisors, and high-quality UK research and innovations. Could your expertise or research contribute to departmental objectives and benefit society? You can find out by visiting the searchable ARI database , which is an A to Z of all published ARIs . You can find more information on the ARI process and objectives here . 

Advisory groups and networks of experts  

Some government departments set up ad-hoc groups of experts. Participants are usually engaged for a time-limited period to provide expertise and advice to inform a specific policy area or area of research interest. One example is the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies . The Government Office for Science has also developed a network of global Science and Technology experts from across sectors and welcomes active engagement and knowledge-sharing on themes relevant to the UK S&T agenda. We produce a range of publications and undertake a range of activities from roundtables and surveys to interviews, peer review and occasionally through a time-limited secondment to a project. If you would like to be a part of the Government Office for Science’s network of experts, please get in touch with your contact details and subject area in which you have expertise: [email protected] . 

Scientific Advisory Committees and Councils ( SACs ) 

Scientific Advisory Councils and Committees ( SACs ) help government departments (and their arm’s-length bodies) to access, interpret and understand the full range of relevant scientific information, and to make judgements about its relevance, potential and application. SACs give advice on a very wide range of issues, spanning everything from the food we grow and eat, to the quality of our environment, the safety of our roads and transport, and the design of the buildings we live and work in. Find out more about how Science Advisory Committees work here . Membership of a SAC is usually through an open public appointment, with opportunities advertised here . 

MAP of SACs and ALBs  

Council for Science & Technology ( CST ) 

The Council for Science and Technology ( CST ) is the government’s most senior expert committee on science and technology. CST advises the Prime Minister on science and technology policy issues across government. The Council is supported by a secretariat in the Government Office for Science. The Council’s work programme, advice and meeting summaries are published on gov.uk . 

Chief Scientific Advisers ( CSAs ) Network 

The network of Departmental CSAs works together under the leadership of the Government Chief Scientific Adviser to support each other and resolve cross-departmental issues. The network advises on all aspects of policy on science and technology. A Chief Scientific Adviser leads their department’s science system, including overseeing science advice for policymaking and building their department’s ability to access expertise. Current members of the network of CSAs are listed here and appointments are openly advertised. 

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Unlocking the transformative potential of data science in improving maternal, newborn and child health in Africa: A scoping review protocol

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• ORCID record for Akuze Joseph Waiswa
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• ORCID record for Bancy Ngatia
• ORCID record for Samson Yahannes Amare
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ABSTRACT Introduction: Application of data science in Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) across Africa is variable with limited documentation. Despite efforts to reduce preventable MNCH morbidity and mortality, progress remains slow. Accurate data is crucial for holding countries accountable, tracking progress towards realisation of SDG3 targets on MNCH, and guiding interventions. Data science can improve data availability, quality, healthcare provision, and decision-making for MNCH programs. We aim to map and synthesise use cases of data science in MNCH across Africa. Methods and Analysis: We will develop a conceptual framework encompassing seven domains: Infrastructure and Systemic Challenges, Data Acquisition, Data Quality, Governance, Regulatory Dynamics and Policy, Technological Innovations and Digital Health, Capacity Development, Human Capital, Collaborative and Strategic Frameworks, data analysis, visualization, dissemination and Recommendations for Implementation and Scaling. A scoping review methodology will be used including literature searches in seven databases, grey literature sources and data extraction from the Digital Health Initiatives database. Three reviewers will screen articles and extract data. We will synthesise and present data narratively, and use tables, figures, and maps. Our structured search strategy across academic databases and grey literature sources will find relevant studies on data science in MNCH in Africa. Ethics and dissemination: This scoping review require no formal ethics, because no primary data will be collected. Findings will showcase gaps, opportunities, advances, innovations, implementation, areas needing additional research and propose next steps for integration of data science in MNCH programs in Africa. The findings' implications will be examined in relation to possible methods for enhancing data science in MNCH settings, such as community, and clinical settings, monitoring and evaluation. This study will illuminate data science applications in addressing MNCH issues and provide a holistic view of areas where gaps exist and where there are opportunities to leverage and tap into what already exists. The work will be relevant for stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers in the MNCH field to inform planning. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conferences, policy briefs, blogs, and social media platforms in Africa. Keywords: Data Science, Maternal Health, Newborn and Perinatal Health, Child Health, Africa

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Clinical Protocols

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/8PYNC

Funding Statement

This study did not receive any funding

Author Declarations

I confirm all relevant ethical guidelines have been followed, and any necessary IRB and/or ethics committee approvals have been obtained.

I confirm that all necessary patient/participant consent has been obtained and the appropriate institutional forms have been archived, and that any patient/participant/sample identifiers included were not known to anyone (e.g., hospital staff, patients or participants themselves) outside the research group so cannot be used to identify individuals.

I understand that all clinical trials and any other prospective interventional studies must be registered with an ICMJE-approved registry, such as ClinicalTrials.gov. I confirm that any such study reported in the manuscript has been registered and the trial registration ID is provided (note: if posting a prospective study registered retrospectively, please provide a statement in the trial ID field explaining why the study was not registered in advance).

I have followed all appropriate research reporting guidelines, such as any relevant EQUATOR Network research reporting checklist(s) and other pertinent material, if applicable.

Data Availability

No underlying data is associated with this article

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Supplementary Material

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