Cornell University

Graduate SchoolGraduate School

Graduate SchoolFields of Study

Applied Statistics M.P.S. (A.S.) (Ithaca)

Field of Study

Statistics

Program Description

The Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) degree in Applied Statistics is for persons interested in professional careers in business, industry or government. The M.P.S. program has three main components:

  • A two-semester core course covering a wide range of statistical  applications, computing, and consulting
  • An in-depth statistical analysis project
  • Elective coursework drawn from the resources of the Department of Statistical Science.

The program can be completed in one year by a well-prepared student with the equivalent of an undergraduate degree in statistics or applied mathematics. Students with less preparation can make up any missing prerequisites while at Cornell; in this case the program will take one to two years to complete.

The M.P.S. is intended for persons who want a short-term (one year) master's degree so as to go into business, industry, or government statistical work. The M.P.S. is not equivalent to an M.S. on several counts: the M.P.S. has a project (a large-scale data-analysis project) rather than a thesis or a qualifying exam (which would be the case for an M.S.). The mathematical probability/statistics component of the M.P.S. is less than it would be for an M.S. (which would be considered the first part of a Ph.D.).

Contact Information

Website: http://www.stat.cornell.edu
Email: sds@cornell.edu
Phone: 607 255-8066

301 Malott Hall
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY  14853

Concentrations by Subject

  • applied statistics

Tuition

Visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadlines:

M.P.S.: Fall, Feb. 1

A limited number of Spring term admissions are available for currently enrolled Cornell undergraduates and for a small number of exceptional non-Cornell applicants. Students who enter in the Spring generally take three semesters to complete the MPS degree. The deadline for Spring admissions is October 1.  If you wish to apply for the Spring semester, you should send an email to the program director, indicating that your application is for the Spring term. For questions, contact the Director of the MPS program, Dr. Xiaolong Yang, or Allen Ward.

Requirements Summary:

In their transcripts, applicants must show strength in the mathematical sciences. Applicants must also demonstrate strong motivation for advanced study in statistics.

  • all Graduate School Requirements, including the English Language Proficiency Requirement for all applicants
  • two letters of recommendation (up to four are allowed). At least two of your letters must be written by faculty members from your current or prior academic institution who are acquainted with your academic work.
  • GRE general test for M.P.S.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the MPS degree, students will have

  1. Demonstrated mastery of basic statistical theory and methods;
  2. Developed proficiency in the use of statistical software;
  3. Achieved breadth and diversity of knowledge through elective courses;
  4. Demonstrated the ability to creatively use statistical methods to solve real-world problems.
  5. Demonstrated the ability to work in teams;
  6. Demonstrated a proficiency in oral and written communication skills appropriate for a career in industry.