A master’s degree in statistics is a graduate-level program that provides students with advanced training in statistical theory and methods, as well as practical experience in analyzing and interpreting data. The program typically takes one to two years to complete and is designed to prepare students for careers in data analysis, research, and other fields that require strong statistical skills.
The curriculum for a master’s degree in statistics typically includes a combination of coursework and a research project or thesis. Courses may cover topics such as probability theory, statistical inference, regression analysis, multivariate analysis, and statistical computing. Students may also have the option to specialize in a particular field of statistics, such as biostatistics, machine learning, or econometrics.
To be admitted to a master’s degree program in statistics, applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or a related field, as well as strong quantitative and analytical skills. Some programs may also demand candidates to have completed coursework in calculus, linear algebra, and statistics.
Upon completing a master’s degree in statistics, graduates are well-knowledged for careers in a wide range of areas, some of them being healthcare, finance, government, education, and more. Graduates may work as data analysts, statisticians, biostatisticians, research scientists, or in other roles that require advanced statistical skills.
As part of our series How to Fully Fund Your Master’s Degree, here is a list of universities that fully support the studies of all or most of their trainees in the Master’s program in Statistics. A Master’s Degree in Statistics can lead to careers in research, teaching, academia, and many more initiatives.
“Full funding” is a financial aid package for full-time researchers that has full tuition remission as well as an annual grant or salary during the entire program, which for Master’s degrees is usually 1-2 years. Funding usually arrives with the expectation that students will teach or complete research in their field of study. Not all universities fully fund their doctoral students, which is why researching the financial aid offerings of many other programs, including small and lesser-known schools both in the U.S. and abroad, is essential.
Here are some universities that offer fully funded Master’s programs in Statistics:
University of California, Berkeley – Department of Statistics:
The University of California, Berkeley’s Department of Statistics offers fully funded Master’s and PhD programs in Statistics. The programs provide comprehensive training in statistical theory, methodology, and application, with a focus on both computational and mathematical aspects of the discipline.
The funding typically includes tuition and fees, as well as a stipend for living expenses. Funding is generally offered in the form of teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or fellowships. These funding opportunities provide students with valuable teaching and research experience, as well as financial support to help them focus on their studies.
Students in the program have the opportunity to work with world-renowned faculty and engage in cutting-edge research in a wide range of fields, including biostatistics, computational statistics, environmental statistics, machine learning, and statistical genetics.
The admission process is highly competitive and requires a strong background in mathematics and statistics, as well as competitive GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The Department of Statistics offers various resources and support for students, including career development services and a strong alumni network.
Stanford University – Department of Statistics:
The fully funded Master’s program in Statistics at Stanford University is a two-year program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in statistical theory and methods, as well as hands-on experience applying these methods to real-world problems. The program covers a wide range of topics in statistics, including probability theory, statistical inference, data analysis, and machine learning.
Students in the program have the opportunity to work with leading faculty members on research projects, both in the classroom and in independent research projects. The program also includes coursework in related fields, such as computer science, mathematics, and applied statistics, to ensure students have a well-rounded education.
The program provides full tuition coverage and a generous stipend to support living expenses, as well as opportunities for teaching and research assistantships. Students who successfully complete the program are well-prepared for a range of careers in academia, industry, and government, and have a strong foundation for pursuing advanced degrees in statistics or related fields.
Harvard University – Department of Statistics:
The Harvard University Department of Statistics offers a fully funded Master’s program in Statistics, which is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in statistical theory and methods, as well as practical experience in data analysis and statistical computing.
The program is two years in duration and includes coursework in probability theory, statistical inference, and regression analysis, as well as specialized topics such as machine learning, data visualization, and computational statistics.
In addition to coursework, students are expected to complete a research project under the supervision of a faculty member, and participate in research seminars and other academic activities.
The program offers full tuition and a stipend for living expenses, as well as health insurance and travel support for conference attendance. The program is highly competitive, with a rigorous application process that includes academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Graduates of the program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in academia, industry, government, and non-profit organizations, as well as further study in a PhD program.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Department of Mathematics, with a concentration in Statistics;
The fully funded Master’s program in Statistics at MIT is offered through the Department of Mathematics, with a concentration in Statistics. The program aims to provide students with a deep understanding of statistical theory and methods, as well as the ability to apply these methods to real-world problems.
The program is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study and includes coursework in probability theory, statistical inference, regression analysis, time series analysis, and other related topics. Students also have the opportunity to take electives in areas such as data science, machine learning, and computational statistics.
In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a master’s thesis under the supervision of a faculty member. The thesis is an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained in the program to a research project of their own choosing.
The MIT Department of Mathematics offers a limited number of fellowships and assistantships to support students in the program, covering tuition and providing a stipend for living expenses. These awards are highly competitive and are typically based on academic merit and potential for research.
Overall, the fully funded Master’s program in Statistics at MIT is a rigorous and highly respected program that provides students with the training and experience necessary to pursue a career in statistics, data science, or related fields.
The University of Michigan- Department of Statistics:
The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor – Department of Statistics offers a fully funded Master’s program in Statistics. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in industry, government, and academia, with a strong emphasis on developing theoretical and practical skills in statistical analysis.
The program typically takes two years to complete and includes coursework in probability theory, statistical inference, data analysis, and statistical computing, among other topics. In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a research project under the guidance of a faculty member.
Funding for the program typically includes a full tuition waiver, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance. Students may also be eligible for additional funding opportunities, such as research assistantships or travel grants.
Admission to the program is highly competitive and requires a strong academic background in mathematics and statistics, as well as strong letters of recommendation and GRE scores. The application deadline for the program is typically in December, with admissions decisions made in February.
Overall, the fully funded Master’s program in Statistics at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor – Department of Statistics offers a rigorous and
University of Chicago – Department of Statistics:
The University of Chicago’s Department of Statistics offers a fully funded Master’s program in Statistics. The program provides rigorous training in statistical theory and methodology, as well as opportunities for applied research in a wide range of fields.
The program is designed to be completed in two years, and includes coursework in topics such as probability theory, statistical inference, regression analysis, and data visualization. Students can also choose from a variety of elective courses to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.
In addition to coursework, students are expected to participate in research projects and seminars, which provide opportunities for hands-on experience and professional development. The program also offers a number of resources and support services, including mentorship, career advising, and networking opportunities.
The Department of Statistics offers full funding for all admitted students, which covers tuition, fees, and a stipend for living expenses. This funding is provided in the form of teaching or research assistantships, and students are expected to work up to 20 hours per week to fulfill their assistantship responsibilities.
Overall, the University of Chicago’s fully funded Master’s program in Statistics is a rigorous and comprehensive program that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in data
Duke University – Department of Statistical Science:
Duke University’s Department of Statistical Science offers a fully funded Master’s program in Statistics. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in statistical theory, methodology, and data analysis. Students take courses in areas such as probability theory, statistical inference, regression analysis, and experimental design. The program also offers a wide range of elective courses, allowing students to tailor their coursework to their individual interests.
The program typically takes two years to complete and includes both coursework and a research project. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members on research projects and gain practical experience through internships and consulting projects. In addition, the program offers a number of professional development opportunities, such as workshops and seminars, to help students prepare for careers in industry or academia.
Funding for the program includes full tuition remission, health insurance, and a stipend for living expenses. To be considered for funding, applicants must submit a complete application by the program’s deadline, including transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Admission to the program is highly competitive, and applicants are encouraged to highlight their academic achievements, research experience, and statistical interests in their
FAQs
Here are five frequently asked questions (FAQs) about fully funded Master’s programs in statistics:
What does it mean for a Master’s program in statistics to be fully funded?
A: A fully funded Master’s program in statistics means that the program covers the tuition fees for the student, provides a stipend for living expenses, and may also provide other benefits such as health insurance.
How can I find fully funded Master’s programs in statistics?
A: You can find fully funded Master’s programs in statistics by searching online or consulting with academic advisors in the field. It is important to research individual programs to understand their admission requirements and deadlines.
What are the admission requirements for fully funded Master’s programs in statistics?
A: The admission requirements for fully funded Master’s programs in statistics vary by program, but typically include academic transcripts, test scores (such as GRE), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs may also require prior coursework or research experience in statistics or a related field.
What can I do with a Master’s degree in statistics?
A: A Master’s degree in statistics can lead to a variety of careers, such as statisticians in industry or government, data analysts, or data scientists. Some graduates may also pursue further education and research in statistics or related fields.
How competitive are fully funded Master’s programs in statistics?
A: Fully funded Master’s programs in statistics are highly competitive, as they provide substantial financial support for students. Admissions committees typically look for strong academic performance, research experience, and a demonstrated interest in statistics. It is important to apply to multiple programs and to carefully prepare all aspects of your application.
