All students must complete a minimum of ten approved classes and two Residence Units (RUs) to graduate. 

For the 10 minimum classes:

• Three are core classes:
  • Probability GR5203
  • Inference GR5204
  • Linear Regression GR5205
•  One capstone course is required from the two options below: 
  • Advanced Data Analysis GR5291
  • Advanced Machine Learning GR5242
• Three of the remaining six electives must be from within the Statistics Department.  If both capstone courses are taken, then one of them will count as a Statistics Elective. 

Students can keep track of their courses in the  MA Program Course Checklist Form.

• All students must graduate in Good Academic Standing. 
• More information can be viewed on our website.

Full-time Students

The majority of students take three semesters to complete the program. Some well-prepared students complete in two semesters.  The faculty adviser can offer guidance and recommendations.

All full-time students must register for one full RU in each of the first two semesters.  A student can graduate after all requirements are achieved including completing 2 RUs.  Most students need a third semester to complete all requirements.  To continue studying, a student who has completed 2 RUs must register for ER.  

Students in F1 status must be full-time and may not extend beyond three semesters.  They may not take a fourth to complete the requirements.  Always check with ISSO for rules about being in F1 status. 

Part-time Students

A part-time student has up to four years to complete all requirements.

All students are subject to the CONTINUOUS REGISTRATION rule.  

Full-time status:

• Semester One:  RU (Residence Unit)
• Semester Two:  RU (Residence Unit)
• Optional Summer Classes:  See Summer Registration
• Semester Three:  ER  (Extended Residence Unit)

Registration for one full RU or ER satisfies the requirement for full-time status.  One full RU or ER:  Each allow up to 20 points maximum per semester.* 

An international student in F1 status may graduate after two semesters, if all requirements are completed, but may not take longer than three semesters to graduate.**

Most new students should not take more than four classes in the first semester, as these classes are challenging and a student must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.  After a successful first semester, any number of courses are permitted (up to 20 points) as long as the Faculty Adviser approves. 

The Faculty Adviser approves the course schedule during the time of registration, and again if changes are made later on. 

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*Note:  Extra fees will be charged if greater than 20 credits are taken at any time, even if classes are dropped later on. 

**Always consult ISSO for issues on international status and visas. 

Students may take classes that are not required for the degree, as long as they do not interfere with required course work and the minimum 3.0 GPA is maintained.  Courses taken for Pass/Fail or R Credit will not count toward graduation. 

A student registered for a full RU (Residence Unit) or ER (Extended Residence Unit – required after completing two RUs in GSAS) may take up to and including 20 points.  Extra fees will be charged if more than 20 points are taken at any point, even if classes are dropped later on. 

Both R and Python are used.   A good website to have time to prepare in advance for programming options is located here.