The Master of Science in Statistics program is ideal for students who are preparing for professional positions or doctoral programs in statistics and other quantitative fields.
Thesis and non-thesis options are available, and students may enroll full time or part time. Use of statistical software packages, available in all university computer labs, is required for most courses.
The MS program offers a combination of mathematical statistics, applied statistics and statistical computing tailored to each student. Before signing up for classes, all new students must meet with the MS program director to design an individualized program of study. The program of study should take into account the student's strengths and deficiencies, as judged from transcripts and interviews. It is recommended that students continue to seek advice throughout their time in the program.
Students must also maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of B (3.0) in all coursework.
MS in Statistics students may transfer up to two approved courses (six credits) taken outside the Statistics Department for credit, but they must be in related fields (e.g., economics, management and finance, computer science, engineering, mathematics or public health). To begin the transfer process, students should talk to their advisors and complete the Graduate Student Transfer Credit Request Form available on the CCAS website. The CCAS Master’s Student Handbook also provides additional guidance and information on degree requirements.
CSCI 6212: Design & Analysis of Algorithms
CSCI 6364: Database Management Systems
CSCI 6442: Database Systems II
CSCI 6907: Big Data & Analytics
ECON 8375: Econometrics I
ECON 8377: Econometrics II
FINA 6223: Investment Analysis & Portfolio Mgmt
MATH 6201: Real Analysis I
MATH 6202: Real Analysis II
MATH 6230: Complex Analysis
MATH 6441: Introduction to Financial Math
MATH 6620: Graph Theory
MKTG 6243: Marketing Research
PUBH 6002: Biostatistical Applications for Public Health
DATS 6102: Introduction to Data Science
DATS 6102: Data Warehousing
If desired, a student may complete the MS in Statistics program prior to admission to the PhD program, in which case no more than 24 credit hours from the MS degree may be applied to the PhD requirements. In this instance, the student will be required to take a minimum of 27 additional credit hours of coursework. The distribution of these courses between statistics and public health would depend on the nature of the master's degree and whether the transferred credit hours would be used to defray statistics or public health coursework. Full information is available in the online Graduate Admissions Application.
All candidates for the MS in Statistics complete at least 30 units of graduate credit approved for the department. For students who wish to complete a thesis, the department can approve a program of study consisting of 24 credit hours of coursework plus a thesis.
All master’s theses must be supervised by a director plus one reader. It is up to the student to find a topic and a thesis advisor. Ask your academic advisor for guidance. Only after you find a thesis advisor you should register for STAT 6998 and STAT 6999 over two semesters.
"I have benefited from the program in many ways. I especially appreciate the program accommodating those like me who have a daytime job, since all master’s-level courses are offered in the afternoon."
Wenliang Yao
MS ’08, Statistics; PhD ’13, Biostatistics
Principal Statistician, MedImmune
Prerequisites: These courses (or equivalents) are prerequisites for admission consideration and MUST appear on your transcript. Submit your MS in Statistics program application only after you have completed all of the required courses.
