The Masters of Probability and Statistics is designed to provide a suitable mix of theoretical and applied background for students interested in a career in statistics. The degree is a non-thesis option aimed for students whose career interests lie mainly with industry. The curriculum is designed to provide students with necessary technical, analytical and interpretive skills required of professional statisticians while concentrating on education in the fundamentals of statistics and its interdisciplinary nature. Emphasis is placed on students learning computer and communication skills. Course offerings are structured to give students a variety of choices of specialization.
Students display their knowledge by, presenting the results of a special project.
The department requires all candidates for the Master of Probability and Statistics to take and pass a written exit examination. Exit exams are written to fit the course background of all students taking the exam. At least three members of the faculty, including members of the Masters Advisory Committee, must take part in this examination. A minimum of 30 credit hours are required for the Master's degree. A student may transfer up to six semester hours of graduate level courses, earned with a grade of B or better from an institution approved for this purpose by the Graduate School.