Terminal M.A./M.S. Programs

The Department offers a broad training program comprised of the main areas of statistical theory (with emphasis on foundations, Bayes theory, decision theory, nonparametric statistics), probability theory, stochastic processes, asymptotics, information theory, machine learning, data analysis, statistical computing, and graphical methods.

With this background, graduates of the program have found excellent positions in industry, and government. We have a list of M.A. alumni for your reference.

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We now offer both the 8-course M.A. in Statistics and a new 12-course M.S. in Statistics & Data Science!  Students may apply to either program but are also allowed to change between programs during their study. Petitions for such changes should be done at the start of a new semester using the Departmental Transfer Form. Consult the Graduate School’s Programs and Policies for general information about M.A./M.S. study at Yale.

Recent placements

Very recent graduates of the terminal Master’s program have continued their graduate education at Yale, the University of Michigan School of Business, the University British Columbia, Stanford University, and Purdue University. Other recent graduates have been employed by Oliver Wyman, Captrust, Deutsch Bank, RAAP, Progressive Leasing, Mathematica, McKinsey, 7 Eleven, and Facebook. These are just a sample of recent graduate activity, and we encourage all alumni to keep in touch and let us know of any updates!

FAQs

It is rare (but not without precedent) for a Master’s student to have a whole course devoted to a single research project under the guidance of a faculty member. However, some of the Statistics courses (such as “Stochastic Processes” and many of the more advanced courses) often do have a research project as part of the course requirement.

Yes, if you can persuade the DGS that those courses are relevant to the degree. See courses taken by recent M.A. students for some examples. Note that some Statistics and Data Science courses are actually taught in collaboration with other Yale departments. (See also the Yale Online Course Information web site, which shows many courses cross-listed with other departments.)  Biostatistics, Mathematics, and Computer Science offer some particularly popular options.

Yes and yes. This should be done at the start of a semester using the Departmental Transfer Form.

We don’t disclose details of our admissions review but we make use of all available information.

Yes.

These are possible but not guaranteed.  We simply don’t know in advance.

No, although a practical project or independent study can serve a similar purpose.

No, although you are welcome to apply again and this will not be held against you in the process.

No.  You need to complete it on schedule in three semesters, after which you may stay as a full-time non-degree student for an additional semester if you are in good standing.

Questions? Contact the DGS Team

  • Jay Emerson

    Adjunct Professor of Statistics & Data Science
    Co-Director of Graduate Studies
    Email
    +1 (203) 432-0638
    Jay Emerson headshot

  • Zhou Fan

    Assistant Professor of Statistics & Data Science
    Co-Director of Graduate Studies
    Email
    Zhou Fan headshot