This MS program (with thesis and non-thesis options) provides students with the content knowledge, critical thinking, programming, and communication skills that constitute a strong foundation in graduate-level statistics and data science. By blending statistical reasoning with advanced computational methods and data management skills, students will be well prepared to work in statistics- or data science-related fields or to pursue further education beyond the master's degree.
The program offers rigorous training options in students' areas of interest, whether in mathematically driven statistical applications or computationally driven data science skills, while expanding their knowledge and exposing them to a range of topics essential to the growing demands of statistics and data science applications.
To receive a master's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master's degree programs require more than 30 units.
You must additionally complete:
Individual degree programs may exceed the baseline University Policy for a master's degree. The program-specific requirements are provided on the Details tab below.
Read the full policy here.
In addition to University Requirements:
| Minimum Units for Completion | 32 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Optional |
| Thesis | Thesis may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Oral Defense | Oral Defense may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Research | Individualized research may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
Purpose Statement
The MS Statistics and Data Science degree program provides students with the content knowledge, critical thinking, programming, and communication skills that constitute a strong foundation in graduate-level statistics and data science. This foundation highlights the interconnection among the different branches within the broad field of data science. By blending statistical reasoning with advanced computational methods and data management skills, students will be well prepared to work in statistics- or data science-related fields or to pursue further education beyond the master's degree.
The program offers rigorous training options in students' desired areas, whether in mathematically driven statistical applications or computationally driven data science skills, while expanding their knowledge and exposing them to a range of topics essential to the ever-growing demands of statistics and data science applications.
Student Learning Outcomes
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
*See the application for details.
This Master's degree requires 32 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 32 units:
Electives (12 units)
The following courses have additional prerequisites:
Additional Coursework or Thesis Requirement - Select one (6 units)
Additional Coursework Option (6 units)
The following courses have additional prerequisites:
Thesis Option (6 units)
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.