Master of Science (MS) in Statistics

We offer two distinct tracks for the MS degree.

  • Mathematical Statistics track
    This is a traditional curriculum, designed for students who want a more theoretical background and those who intend to pursue a higher degree.
  • Data Science and Analytics track
    This track is more computational, with a balanced approach to modeling theory and practical skills that are in growing global demand for both the private and public sectors.

Courses for the Mathematical Statistics Track:

  • STAT 713
  • STAT 720 or STAT 722
  • STAT 770
  • STAT 771
  • STAT 860
  • STAT 861

Courses for the Data Science and Analytics Track:

  • STAT 727
  • At least two of: STAT 713, STAT 717, STAT 720 (or 722), STAT 730
  • At least one of: STAT 760, STAT 761
  • At least two of: STAT 764, STAT 766, STAT 768

Sample Curriculum for the Data Science and Analytics Track

Descriptions of these course can be found in the K-State Graduate Catalog or on our Courses page.

Note: Students planning to pursue the PhD in Statistics at K-State are required to take Stat 720.

Two Options for Each Track

Regardless of which track is chosen, all master's students have two options for completing their degree.

  • Report Option
    The student must take 30 credit hours of course work, and write a report for 2 additional credit hours (STAT 898).

  • Non-report Option
    The student must take 36 hours of course work and pass a comprehensive exam approved by the supervisory committee.

For both options, students must be enrolled in at least one hour the semester in which they plan to complete the final examination or defend their report and graduate. However, if they are an international student, they should check with International Student and Scholar Services to be certain of the enrollment required.

The report option is strongly recommended for all students, especially those for whom the master’s degree will be the terminal degree. In either case, the course work must include the required courses listed above plus electives, which have been approved by the student’s major professor.

In addition, all master students are expected to have a background in mathematics at lease at the level of calculus, along with prior knowledge of matrix or linear algebra. The Data Science and Analytics track requires proficiency of STAT 510 and STAT 511 or equivalent, and at least 3 credit hours of a programming language course that uses C, C++, Fortran, R or Python, for admission. Students without the background of STAT 510 and STAT 511 prior to admission are required to take extra credits to fulfill the requirement

Additional information about the MS in Statistics is available in K-State’s Graduate Catalog.