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.
This degree has 1 track: Data Science Track. Please scroll to the bottom of this page for further details on this Track.
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.
Students must have the following background and courses completed before applying to the Statistics & Data Science MS program. These courses are: MAC 2311C: Calculus with Analytic Geometry I, MAC 2312: Calculus with Analytic Geometry II, MAC 2313: Calculus with Analytic Geometry III, MAS 3105: Matrix and Linear Algebra or MAS 3106: Linear Algebra. These pre-required courses are basic undergraduate courses from the Math department.
All MS students must have an approved Plan of Study (POS) developed by the student and advisor that lists the specific courses to be taken as part of the degree. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their POS, as well as a "B" (3.0) in all courses completed toward the degree and since admission to the program.
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.
- Résumé.
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
| Statistics and Data Science MS | *Fall Priority | Fall | Spring | Summer |
| Domestic Applicants | Jan 15 | Jul 1 | Dec 1 | Apr 1 |
| International Applicants | Jan 15 | Jan 15 | | |
| *Applicants who plan to enroll full time in a degree program and who wish to be considered for university fellowships or assistantships should apply by the Fall Priority date. |
Contact Info
GRE: 5233
GMAT: RZT-HT-58
TOEFL: 5233
ETS PPI: 5233
