Statistics: Statistics & Data Science MS
Master of Science in Statistics
The Master of Science in Statistics: Statistics and Data Science program gives you the skills to make sense of complex data to achieve organizational goals.
Is this program right for you?
The Master of Science in Statistics: Statistics and Data Science at UW–Madison combines a background in statistical theory, methods, and practice related to data science with the communication skills you need to use data effectively for planning and decision making.
The program enables graduates to move into leadership roles in their organizations or move laterally and upward into other roles.
Leveraging the power of statistical thinking will prepare to you to put data into context and communicate its meaning to others. You will build analytical, reasoning, and communication skills in realistic strategic planning sessions, giving you the skills to work in professional and leadership teams, and lead discussions grounded in data reasoning.
Is this program right for you?
The Master of Science in Statistics: Statistics and Data Science at UW–Madison combines a background in statistical theory, methods, and practice related to data science with the communication skills you need to use data effectively for planning and decision making.
The program enables graduates to move into leadership roles in their organizations or move laterally and upward into other roles.
Leveraging the power of statistical thinking will prepare to you to put data into context and communicate its meaning to others. You will build analytical, reasoning, and communication skills in realistic strategic planning sessions, giving you the skills to work in professional and leadership teams, and lead discussions grounded in data reasoning.
Admissions requirements
All applicants must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Have some background in quantitative fields including experience and skill with abstract conceptual thinking and task definition, typically developed in statistics, mathematics, computer sciences, economics and engineering courses.
- Have taken courses equivalent to the following UW–Madison courses:
- MATH 221 Calculus and Analytical Geometry I
- MATH 222 Calculus and Analytical Geometry II
- MATH 234 Calculus-Function of Several Variables
- MATH 421 The Theory of Single Variable Calculus or another advanced analysis course
- MATH 340 Elementary Matrix and Linear Algebra
- Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credits of degree.
- Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. The required proficiency scores are: TOEFL IBT 92, PBT 580; or IELTS 7.0.
Ideal applicants will have taken courses equivalent to the following UW–Madison courses:
- STAT 303 R for Statistics I and STAT 304 R for Statistics II
- STAT/MATH 309 and 310 Introduction to Probability and Mathematical Statistics I and II
Application materials required:
- Online application
- Supplemental Department of Statistics application
- Resume/CV
- Statement of purpose
- Transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
Program highlights
- Flexible enrollment plans. Students typically complete the Master of Science in Statistics: Statistics and Data Science program in an average of 3-4 semesters.
- UW–Madison’s Department of Statistics is on the cutting edge of Big Data and predictive analytics research, and we are constantly innovating to keep up with the industry.
- You have the opportunity to attend many data conferences throughout the year, allowing you to gain insights in the field and network with statistics and data science leaders.
How you'll learn
- Residential learning on the UW–Madison campus.
- Work in teams to develop and expand skills that enhance your value in the workplace.
- Decide with program coordinators an enrollment plan that best suits your needs: part-time or calendar-year options may be possible for qualified students.
Sample curriculum
Core Courses
- Statistical Methods I and II
- Introduction to Statistical Inference
- Statistical Learning
- Data Science Computing Project
- Data Science Practicum
- Professional Skills in Data Science
- Electives from statistics and other related areas
Job outlook
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Biostatistician
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Statistician
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Manufacturing
- Finance and Insurance
- Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services
- Health Care and Social Assistance
Source: Lightcast™ 2022.
Ready to learn more about Statistics: Statistics & Data Science MS?
View the UW-Madison Guide
Stay in touch
Sign up to receive application tips and deadline reminders.
Connect with our enrollment coaches
Our friendly, knowledgeable enrollment coaches are here to answer your questions. Contact an enrollment coach to:
- Learn how to make this program work with your life/schedule
- Get help with your application
- Determine if financial aid is available
Visit with our coaches on campus or at an upcoming student fair in your area. Search student fairs & events.
