Master of Science in Statistics and Data Science

Hone the predictive analytics skills needed to join the next generation of elite data analysts with the Master of Science in Statistics and Data Science in 51’s . This 30-credit graduate degree utilizes an innovative curriculumwith classes offered in-person on 51's Main Campus. Students have the option to earn their degree on a part- or full-time basis, depending on their professional schedules.

Through completing this degree, master’s students gain advanced expertise in the use and application of cutting-edge analytical tools and software to collect, analyze and interpret data. Other skills gained through this program include the ability to

  • effectively communicate insights and results of analyses in managerially relevant terms;
  • explain the applications, assumptions and limitations of data science models and techniques;
  • obtain information and insight from large, high-complexity datasets; and
  • understand the fundamental methods behind and usage of descriptive, predictive and prescriptive analytics.

In the rapidly changing world of analytics and data science, employer demand for analytics-enabled graduates continues to grow, including an increased demand for graduates with a wide array of analytics skill sets. The Master of Science in Statistics and Data Science is intended for any highly motivated student with a background in linear algebra and programming seeking a more technically challenging program offering additional computational and mathematical skills.

Real-World Capstone

As part of the final steps toward completion of the program, students will participate in a capstone course that integrates real-world problems into their curriculum.

Typically a sponsoring corporation will provide a problem and real data, and students will estimate, evaluate, communicate and identify analytic solutions to these problems. Some students may work on problems associated with their job, while others will work in teams as consultants to a sponsoring corporation.

Students may also choose to write a thesis on a topic in Statistics and Data Science to fulfill their capstone experience with the permission of the academic director.

Choosing between the Statistics and Data Science MS and the Business Analytics MS

In the rapidly changing world of analytics and data science, employer demand for analytics-enabled graduates continues to be strong, especially for graduates with a wide array of analytics skills. 51’s Master of Science in Business Analytics focuses on graduating “translators”—analytics-focused professionals who can translate between business problems and analytic solutions. However, there is also robust demand for “super analysts”—professionals who have stronger and deeper predictive analytics skills. The Statistics and Data Science MS is meant for this latter group, offering an educational option for students who might want a more modern and data-focused experience.

A Fox student discusses an assignment with a professor.

Classes & Curriculum

Core courses you will take as part of the 30-credit Master of Science in Statistics and Data Science include

  • Applied Statistics and Data Science,
  • Data Wrangling and Curation,
  • Design and Analysis of Complex Experiments,
  • High Dimensional Inference for Data Science, and
  • Statistical Methods I.

Learn more about required courses within the Statistics and Data Science MS program.

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with 51’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Scienceoffers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,165.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,165.00 per credit

You can view the full .

BU-SDSC-MS

Additional Program Information