Program Overview

Introduction to the Statistics Master of Science Program

The Department of Statistics at Ohio State University offers several graduate degree programs, including the Master of Science (MS) in Statistics, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Statistics, and the Master of Applied Statistics (MAS) degree. The department also jointly administers an Interdisciplinary PhD Program in Biostatistics with the Division of Biostatistics in the College of Public Health.

About the Department

The department aims to contribute to virtually all areas of statistical science, including the development of novel statistical theory and methodology. Specific areas of excellence include Bayesian statistics, spatio-temporal statistics, statistical learning, and biostatistics. Research is directed toward modern and emerging areas of interest, with a large portion of the departments faculty and students involved in interdisciplinary research, making significant scientific contributions beyond the field of statistics.

Master of Science (MS) in Statistics

The MS in Statistics degree can act as either a terminal degree or as a stepping-stone to a PhD program. It is typically a two-year degree with either a thesis or exam requirement for graduation. The master's program is flexible enough to provide preparation for a career in applied statistics or can be composed entirely of the first two years of coursework for the statistics or biostatistics PhD programs. Note that admission to the MS program in no way guarantees admission to either of the PhD programs.

Program Details

• The program offers a comprehensive education in statistical theory and methodology.
• Students can choose to specialize in various areas, including Bayesian statistics, spatio-temporal statistics, statistical learning, and biostatistics.
• The program requires either a thesis or an exam for graduation.
• It is designed to be completed in two years.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

International graduates of this major are eligible to apply for up to three years of work permission in the United States after graduation.

Research Areas

The department is involved in various research areas, including:

• Bayesian statistics
• Spatio-temporal statistics
• Statistical learning
• Biostatistics Faculty members are highly successful at securing competitive grants from various research funding agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The department is also a partner in administering the NSF-funded Mathematical Biosciences Institute on the Ohio State campus.