Statistics and Data Science (MS)

Program Description

The Master of Science in Statistics and Data Science provides a sound foundation in statistical theory, statistical methods, numerical methods in statistics, and the application of computer methodology to statistical analyses. The MS is particularly suited for individuals who have completed an undergraduate program in mathematics, statistics, or computer science, but is also available to those from other disciplines who wish to develop an expertise in statistics and data science.

Program Tracks

• Statistics and Data Science MS, Data Science Track

Curriculum

The Statistics and Data Science MS program requires a minimum of 36 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. The degree in Statistics and Data Science includes 21 credit hours of required courses, 15 credit hours of restricted electives, and passing a comprehensive examination.

Total Credit Hours Required: 36 Credit Hours Minimum beyond the Bachelor’s Degree

Required Courses: 21 Credit Hours

Note: STA 6106 provides an independent learning experience for the program. It requires a research project that results in a written report or oral presentation.

• STA 5205 - Experimental Design 3 Credit Hours
• STA 6106 - Statistical Computing I 3 Credit Hours
• STA 6236 - Regression Analysis 3 Credit Hours
• STA 6326 - Theoretical Statistics I 3 Credit Hours
• STA 6327 - Theoretical Statistics II 3 Credit Hours
• STA 6329 - Statistical Applications of Matrix Algebra 3 Credit Hours

Select one of the following courses.

• STA 6246 - Linear Models 3 Credit Hours
• STA 6707 - Multivariate Statistical Methods 3 Credit Hours

Comprehensive Examination

All students must take a comprehensive written examination covering the courses STA 5205, STA 6236, STA 6326, and STA 6327. For full-time students, this examination normally will be taken just prior to the start of the second year of graduate work. Students are allowed two attempts to pass the exam. Failure to pass after the second attempt will result in removal from the program.

Independent Learning

• STA 6106 provides the independent learning experience for the program. It requires a research project that results in a written report or oral presentation.

Elective Courses: 15 Credit Hours

Elective statistics courses will be selected by the student in consultation with the adviser. Certain graduate courses in computer science, mathematics, and engineering may also be selected if approved by the graduate program director.

A listing and description of graduate courses offered by the Department of Statistics and Data Science is found in the “Courses” section.

Application Requirements

For information on general UCF graduate admissions requirements that apply to all prospective students, please visit the Admissions section of the Graduate Catalog. Applicants must apply online. All requested materials must be submitted by the established deadline.

In addition to the general UCF graduate admission requirements , applicants to this program must provide:

• One official transcript (in a sealed envelope) from each college/university attended.
• Official, competitive GRE or GMAT score taken within the last five years.
  • NOTE: The GRE has been removed as an admission requirement for this graduate program for applicants applying Spring 2021 through the Fall 2021 term. This is a temporary measure in response to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Résumé.
• Applicants applying to this program who have attended a college/university outside the United States must provide a course-by-course credential evaluation with GPA calculation. Credential evaluations are accepted from World Education Services (WES) or Josef Silny and Associates, Inc. only.

Applicants not qualified for regular graduate status may be initially admitted to the university in non-degree-seeking status and later admitted to regular status once all deficiencies have been eliminated, although only nine hours of graduate course work taken as a non-degree-seeking student can count toward a graduate degree.

Meeting minimum UCF admission criteria does not guarantee program admission. Final admission is based on evaluation of the applicant’s abilities, past performance, recommendations, match of this program and faculty expertise to the applicant’s career/academic goals, and the applicant’s potential for completing the degree.

Application Deadlines