Statistics (M.S.)

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Program Coordinator/Contact

Kurt D. Cogswell, Department Head
Donald Vestal, Associate Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Chicoine Architecture, Mathematics and Engineering Hall 209, Box 2225
605-688-6196

Program Information

The focus of the M.S. in Statistics program is the development of sophisticated statistical models and their implementation on high performance computing platforms. The curriculum features a balance of application, computation, and theory with particular emphasis in the areas of biostatistics/informatics and analytics. Areas of faculty and graduate student research activity include bioinformatics, biostatistics, business and financial analytics, forensic statistics, and general statistics. The program is particularly effective at preparing graduates to work in business, industry, or government as well as preparing students to continue on to the CSS Ph.D. or other Ph.D. program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Prove theorems: Students should be able to prove theorems in specialized areas of mathematics and statistics.
Recall definitions and theorems: Students should be able to recall important definitions and theorems from some specialized areas of mathematics and statistics and effectively communicate these concepts.
Use models correctly: Students should be able to use mathematical models correctly.
Understand the ethical implications of professional actions in statistics and other contexts. (Transferable Skill: Ethics - Moral Decision Making/Moral Reasoning)

Course Delivery Format

Courses will typically be delivered in on-campus classrooms, with occasional courses offered online.

Facilities and Services

The department offices are located in Architecture, Mathematics and Engineering 209. The Math Help Center, located in AME 292 and in the Biostress Basement 0020, provides free walk-in tutoring for students in several undergraduate courses.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The department has graduate research and teaching assistantships and fellowships are available for a number of qualified applicants.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	30 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

STAT 684 - Statistical Inference I Credits: 3
STAT 685 - Statistical Inference II Credits: 3
STAT 686 - Regression Analysis I Credits: 3
STAT 687 - Regression Analysis II Credits: 3
STAT 779 - Advanced Statistics Synthesis Credits: 1

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

STAT 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5 credits required)
Additional electives as needed to complete option requirements

Option B - Research/Design Paper

STAT 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-2 (2 credits required)
Additional electives as needed to complete option requirements

Option C - Coursework Only

Approved Electives

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: Department requirement of 575 paper-based, 90-91 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.0

Students who are interested in an assistantship are strongly encouraged to submit letters of recommendation addressing the applicant’s experience with teaching and research.

Accelerated Master’s Program

The accelerated Master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students. Up to 12 credits applied to the undergraduate degree may be used to satisfy graduate credit. Students must follow SDSU Policy 2:22 Use of Graduate Credit for Undergraduate Degree Requirements.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .