Bayesian Philosophy and Methods in Data Science - 2025 entry

Since the 1980s, computational advances and novel algorithms have seen Bayesian methods explode in popularity, today underpinning modern techniques in data science and machine learning with applications across science, social science, the humanities and finance.

This module will introduce Bayesian statistical inference, describing the differences between it and classical approaches to statistics. It will develop Bayesian methods for data analysis and introduce Bayesian simulation, including Markov Chain Monte Carlo and Hamiltonian Monte Carlo. The course balances philosophy, theory, mathematical calculation and analysis of real data ensuring the student is equipped to use Bayesian methods in future jobs aligned to data analysis and to take Bayesian research projects.

Pre-requisites: A basic introduction to probability and to classical statistics, plus experience of a programming language for data science such as R or Python. A preliminary online refresher course covering some basics in probability, integration and likelihood theory, supported by the module leader, is given alongside the first 2 weeks of the module to ensure students have the required knowledge to complete the course.

This module will cover the Bayesian approach to modelling, data analysis and statistical inference. The module describes the underpinning philosophies behind the Bayesian approach, looking at subjective probability theory, the notion and handling of prior knowledge, and posterior inference. Bayesian modelling and inference is studied in depth, looking at parameter estimation and inference in simple models and then hierarchical models. We explore simulation-based inference in Bayesian analyses and develop important algorithms for Bayesian simulation by Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) such the Gibbs sampler and the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm. The module aims to teach methods along with the mathematics to demonstrate why they work and the philosophy behind when, why and how they should be used. Unlike versions of this module with mathematics codes (MTH3041/MTHM047), the focus of the assessment is application, understanding and reasoning appropriate for data science students who have not completed a mathematics degree. It is not available to students on mathematics programmes (who may take the mathematics equivalent).

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1. Show understanding of the subjective approach to probabilistic reasoning.

2. Demonstrate an awareness of Bayesian approaches to statistical modelling and inference and an ability to apply them in practice.

3. Demonstrate understanding of the value of simulation-based inference and knowledge of techniques such as MCMC and the theories underpinning them.

4. Demonstrate the ability to fit a range of models in the Bayesian framework.

5. Utilise appropriate software and a suitable computer language for Bayesian modelling and inference from data.

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

6. Demonstrate understanding, appreciation of and aptitude in the quantification of uncertainty using advanced mathematical modelling.

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:

7. Show Bayesian data analysis skills and be able to communicate associated reasoning and interpretations effectively in writing;

8. Apply relevant computer software competently;

9. Use learning resources appropriately;

10. Exemplify self-management and time-management skills.

Introduction: Bayesian vs Classical statistics, Nature of probability and uncertainty.

Bayesian inference: Bayes Theorem, Conjugate priors, Objective priors, Subjective priors, Prior and Posterior predictive distributions, Prior elicitation, Posterior summaries and simulation.

Bayesian Computation: Monte Carlo, Inverse CDF, Rejection Sampling, Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC), Gibbs sampling, Metropolis Hastings, Hamiltonian Monte Carlo, Diagnostics.

Modelling: Conjugate models, measurement models, Bayesian regression, Bayesian Hierarchical Models, Generalised Linear Models.

Deferrals: Reassessment will be by coursework and/or written exam in the deferred element only. For deferred candidates, the module mark will be uncapped.

Referrals: Reassessment will be by a single written exam worth 100% of the module only. As it is a referral, the mark will be capped at 50%. 

Web-based and electronic resources:

• ELE

Reading list for this module: