Mathematical Statistics Program

The use of statistical methodology is highly relevant for any person carrying research where data has been collected. Thus, Statistics is frequently used to validate research in fields such as engineering, biology, psychology, medicine, agriculture, etc. The main goal of this graduate program is to prepare students that will be able to apply statistical techniques to other fields in a correct way. The emphasis of the program is more in applied statistics than in theoretical statistics and probability. However, theoretical foundations of statistics and probability is considered in most of the courses. Students wishing to pursue a doctoral degree in statistics are encouraged to take more courses in theory of statistics, probability and stochastic processes. Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in Mathematics or its equivalent. Candidates are expected to have approved undergraduate courses in Linear Algebra and Multivariate Calculus. The approval of at least an undergraduate course in Statistics is also required. Knowledge of computer programming is highly desirable.
In addition to the requirements of the Office of Graduate Studies, the Master of Science degree in Mathematical Statistics, has three options of study, thesis (Plan I), project (Plan II), and thesis or project (Plan III)

9 credits in core courses

Course Code Course Name
ESMA 6600 Probability Theory
ESMA 6661 Theory of Statistics I
ESMA 6305 Statistical Methods

9 credits from the following (area of specialization)

Course Code Course Name
ESMA 5015 Stochastic Simulations
ESMA 6205 Applied Regression
ESMA 6607 Advanced Sampling Theory
ESMA 6616 Linear Models
ESMA 6660 Bio-statistical Analysis
ESMA 6662 Theory of Statistics II
ESMA 6665 Computational Statistics
ESMA 6787 Experimental Design
ESMA 6835 Topics in Statistics I
ESMA 6836 Topics in Statistics II

6 credits outside the area of specialization or major

The requirement of a minimum of two out-of-discipline courses is to ensure cross-disciplinary breadth. The courses must be related to mathematics and should be chosen in a coherent way. These should be of level 5000 or higher. It is recommended that student choose these courses with the help of their advisor.

6000 or 5000 level courses not listed in the major, or
6000 or 5000 level courses outside the math department

2 credits in Seminar

Course Code Course Name
MATE 6991 Seminar I
MATE 6992 Seminar II

6 credits in Thesis

Course Code Course Name
MATE 6999 Thesis

Project option: the course and examination requirements are similar to Option I, however the 6 Thesis credits must be replaced by 6 Project credits. An oral examination on the project is also required.

No project, no thesis: the student should approve a minimum of 36 course credits:

A minimum of 27 credits at graduate level
A minimum of 21 credits in the major field
A minimum of 6 credits in courses related to, but outside the area of specialization.