Data Science and Statistics, MS

Location(s): Main Campus

The department is committed to the idea that pure and applied mathematics are two faces of the same subject. The department offers a lively research atmosphere and students are encouraged to take a broad range of courses. Our faculty’s research expertise includes algebra, analysis, combinatorics, dynamical systems, geometry/topology, graph theory, number theory, probability and statistics. Our department strives to develop intellectual independence in its graduate students both through individual attention and in small classes.Teaching assistants are given varied assignments intended to increase both their experience and employability.

The MS in Data Science and Statistics program provides students with a solid foundation of practical knowledge to work with applied statistics in depth, preparing them for future careers in the public and private sectors as data scientists, consultants and engineers who manage and analyze data. The statistics component gives broad training. The master’s degree prepares students for jobs as statisticians and data analysts in government and industry. Students are given training in many diverse statistical methods used to analyze data, as well as the mathematical, statistical and probabilistic foundation.

A detailed explanation of the requirements for the master’s degrees can be found in the Graduate Handbook of the department.

Program Admission Requirements

For admission to regular standing, a student should have a bachelor’s degree and have completed (with an average of at least 3.0 gpa) a set of mathematics courses approximately equivalent to those required for a bachelor’s degree at Harpur College with a specialization in mathematics. The department requires submission of Graduate Record Examination scores for the general test and, if possible, the subject test in mathematics. Entering students having substantial graduate-level training may enter the Mathematical Sciences, PhD program, skipping the MS.

Program Requirements

MS in Data Science and Statistics Course Requirements

Students pursuing the MS in Data Science and Statistics must complete a minimum of 40 credits of coursework at the graduate level. This includes the courses listed below, and must be finished in four semesters. Each student’s program is worked out in consultation with an advisor, under the general supervision of the graduate committee. Students are encouraged to fulfill the Math 500 requirement by completing the more rigorous Math 501-502 course sequence. In this case, one fewer elective course will be required.

MATH 500
MATH 530
MATH 531
MATH 534
MATH 540
One course from the following:
- MATH 532
- MATH 535
- MATH 543
- MATH 545
- MATH 546
- MATH 556
- MATH 570
Four elective courses (4-credits each)

Thesis Requirements

Successful completion of an MS in Data Science and Statistics requires that students complete either an oral examination or master’s thesis, as well as the required coursework.

Additional Information About the Program

The student must maintain at least a B average (GPA 3.0) and a minimum grade not lower than B- in these courses. In addition, the student must have a minimum grade not lower than B in the capstone seminar course.

For more information on the Data Science and Statistics, MS program, please refer to the Department of Mathematics and Statistics website. To apply to the Data Science and Statistics program, please visit the University Admissions website.