M.SC. IN STATISTICS
The Statistics M.Sc. program offers exposure to a wide range of statistical techniques and their application. The program combines applied and theoretical training in state of the art statistical methodology, hands-on consulting experiences, a project in data analysis or in the development of new statistical methodology, and the opportunity to gain work experience and course credit through the co-operative education program. The M.Sc. program prepares students for careers as statisticians in industry, government, consulting, and research organizations. In addition, graduates have the foundational training to continue on to Ph.D. studies.
Program Requirements
The Statistics M.Sc. program consists of required courses and a project for a minimum of 34 units. Students with backgrounds in other disciplines, or with an inadequate background in statistics, may be required to complete two undergraduate courses in addition to the program requirements for a minimum of 40 units. The undergraduate courses will not be included in the program cumulative grade point average (CGPA).
Formal course and other requirements are described in the SFU Calendar. In addition to the required core courses, the department also offers other graduate level statistics courses in areas such as biostatistics, functional data analysis, and space-time models. These courses are listed and described in the SFU Calendar. Moreover, students may be permitted to take courses in other departments.
See our information for current students for details about the program requirements and courses.
Program Structure
The Statistics M.Sc. program is structured as a short, intensive program designed for timely completion within 4–5 semesters (excluding co-op). The early stages of the program are course-based and may include exploratory research activity, with supervisors typically providing significant funding and academic support. Supervision is structured to guide students through the development, completion, and write-up of a clearly bounded research project within the program timeline. Given the short, intensive structure of the program, continuity of supervision is important once a project is underway, and supervisory changes are uncommon and considered exceptional when they would require restarting or substantially reframing the project, or would otherwise delay completion despite a viable path forward.
Program Length
Students with a good undergraduate background in statistics will normally complete the course work in four terms or fewer. The project, including the defense, is expected to require up to two terms, including terms in which students are completing course requirements. Students with backgrounds in other disciplines or with an inadequate background in statistics may be required to complete certain undergraduate courses in the department in addition to the formal calendar requirements.
Resources
- Questions to ask your prospective supervisor upon admission to the M.Sc. program
- Tips for preparing for the Statistics M.Sc. program
- Find examples of research by our former M.Sc. students here