For more than twenty years, our Master of Professional Studies (MPS) has offered world-class training in data science and applied statistics, preparing students for the 21st-century workplace.
The MPS program provides a solid foundation in theoretical statistics, a broad education in many applied statistics topics, certification in SAS, and a semester-long, real-world data analysis project. Our students join in a tradition of success, and graduates are employed in data science and applied statistics careers worldwide in diverse fields from finance to artificial intelligence to biomedical research.
About Our MPS Program
The master’s in data science and applied statistics is for those interested in professional careers related to business, industry, government, or scientific research and provides rigorous training in modern data analytical skills that are sought after in almost any field. Cornell is the only Ivy League University that provides such a program.
This program is recognized as a Professional Science Master's (PSM) program, approved by the Council of Graduate Schools.
Program Options and Components: Statistics vs. Data Science
The MPS Program has two options:
Option I - Statistical Analysis
This option places emphasis on the techniques of statistical analysis.
Option II - Data Science
Along with statistical techniques, this option emphasizes computer science including high-performance computing, databases, middleware, and scripting.
Regardless of which option you choose, the MPS program has three main components:
- Required common and option-specific core courses
- An in-depth statistical analysis MPS project supported by the core courses
- Required coursework, including a two-semester course sequence in mathematical probability and statistics, and elective coursework selected from offerings in the Department of Statistics and Data Science and other departments at Cornell
Applied Statistics and Data Science One-Year Master’s Program
The MPS program can be completed in two semesters and readies students for careers in fields where modern data analysis skills are highly coveted.
The application for the MPS in Data Science and Applied Statistics is open to any major as long as students meet the minimum mathematical background necessary to keep up with coursework. However, space is limited and preference is given to those with a stronger mathematical background and the equivalent of an undergraduate degree in one or more of the following areas:
- Statistics
- Applied Mathematics
- Engineering
- Computer Science
Students are expected to complete the program in two semesters. While exceptions are sometimes made, attending for a third semester is not guaranteed.
Master’s in Data Science and Applied Statistics Information Session
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Note For Data Science and Applied Statistics Employers
Cornell University's Data Science and Applied Statistics Master of Professional Studies (MPS) program is designed to provide its students with high levels of technical training in data science and statistics that can be used in nearly all facets of industry.
Due to its mathematical rigor, graduates of this master’s program are exceptionally qualified for most quantitative or data-driven positions. Such positions can include, but are not limited to: industrial engineer, mathematician, operations research analyst, quantitative analyst, data scientist, research scientist, or statistician.
