Statistics

The Mathematics and Statistics program at Case Western Reserve University offers students a rigorous and comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of mathematics, statistical theory, and data analysis. This interdisciplinary program is designed to prepare graduates for diverse careers in academia, industry, government, and research institutions by developing strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills. Students have the opportunity to explore various areas of mathematics, including pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and computational methods, alongside advanced training in statistical methods and data interpretation. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, enabling students to analyze complex data sets, develop mathematical models, and implement statistical techniques in real-world scenarios. Through a combination of coursework, research projects, and collaborative work, students gain experience in handling large datasets, programming languages commonly used in statistical computing, and modern technologies used in data science and analytics. The program also encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to tailor their educational experience towards specific interests such as finance, bioinformatics, engineering, or social sciences. Faculty members are experts in their fields, providing mentorship and fostering an environment of scholarly inquiry. Graduates of the Mathematics and Statistics program are well-equipped to pursue further academic study or enter the workforce as skilled analysts, data scientists, quantitative researchers, or educators. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities and emphasis on experiential learning ensure that students receive a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills necessary for success in today’s data-driven world.

The MS degree in statistics requires a minimum of 27 hours of approved course work in statistics and related disciplines and an MS research project or a thesis. Each student’s program is developed in consultation with the director of graduate studies or a senior faculty mentor and must satisfy the following requirements:

The goals of this program are:

1. to give each student a balanced view of statistical theory and the application of statistics in practice or in substantive research
2. to have the student develop a broad competence in statistical methodology.

The required core course work reflects this balance. The first two requirements are for full-year sequences in data analysis and theory; the third develops the theory underlying linear modeling. The requirement for applications of statistics will be satisfied through intensive participation in the consulting forum; the selection of an MS research project provides additional exposure. Graduate students are also required to participate in a forum or seminar to gain experience in written and oral presentation.

The remainder of each student’s program is individualized to address the more specialized statistical demands of the selected field of concentration or the focus of multidisciplinary work. Each student may choose either the applied research project or the thesis option, depending on individual interests. In either case, the student can expect to work with a faculty mentor in undertaking a significant task, the results of which will be suitable for publication or for presentation at professional society meetings.

A student coming to school from a position as a professional statistician might choose a statistical problem arising in the workplace as the basis for an MS research project. A student intending to continue graduate work toward a PhD might choose an MS research project to explore the intimate relationship of statistics to substantive fields. Alternatively, either student might choose the thesis option to tailor a methodology to a new setting or to make a first essay at mathematical statistical research.

Entrepreneurial Track

The Master of Science in Statistics – Entrepreneurial Track (MSS-ET) is a professional degree designed to provide training in statistics focused on developing data analysis and decision-making skills in industrial, government, and consulting environments where uncertainties and related risks are present. It expands our master's program in statistics by creating a professional track that includes some business training. The Entrepreneurial Track provides instruction and real-world business experience to students who have a background in statistics and a vision for new and growing ventures. The MSS – ET program requires a minimum of 27 hours.

The required New Venture Creation and Technology Entrepreneurship courses will be offered by the Weatherhead School of Management. Students on internships will sign up for the consulting forum sequence. In addition, students are required to participate in an intensive (up to 30 hours) one-week annual workshop on the industrial use of statistics from the management perspective. This non-credit workshop will take place during the fall or spring undergraduate breaks.

Requirements

• Applicants must have a good academic record, e.g., a B-average or rank in the upper third of his or her graduating class at an institution whose status and programs are readily assessed.
• Applicants must meet all of the undergraduate prerequisites for the proposed field of graduate study.
• Statement of Objectives — Some programs have this built into the application. If not, create your own using "Statement of Objectives" as the heading. The statement should be one to two pages and include your purpose in undertaking graduate work as well as an explanation of your study and research interests as they relate to your undergraduate/graduate study and professional goals.
• Academic Transcripts – You are required to identify all post-secondary educational institutions you have attended on your application form, and to submit an official transcript from each. Admission to the School of Graduate Studies is conditional on final certification of degrees awarded. Note to International Students: Documents in languages other than English must be accompanied by certified translations in English.
• Letters of Recommendation - Three letters of recommendation must be submitted from those individuals sufficiently familiar with you, and who can assess your academic preparation, abilities and accomplishments. Letters should be from your most recent instructors in your proposed field of study. If you have been out of school for several years, one letter may be from your employer, supervisor or other person familiar with your most recent activities.
• Test Scores – Your department will identify required standardized tests. When you fill out forms for these use 1105 as the institutional code for Case Western Reserve University. The School of Graduate Studies will forward all official score reports of standardized tests (GRE, TOEFL, etc.) to the program of interest. The department will inform you which standardized tests are required for your program. International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and earn a minimum score of 577 if paper-based, or 90 if Internet-based. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is also accepted. The minimum acceptable score is 7.0. Some departments may require higher scores. International applicants cannot be admitted without receipt of an acceptable official TOEFL score. The TOEFL is valid for two years after the test date. The GRE is valid for five years after the test date.
• Application Fee - A nonrefundable application fee of $50 is required for each application submitted.

Financing of the program at Case Western Reserve University is structured through a combination of institutional scholarships, federal and state financial aid, private loans, and work-study opportunities. The university is committed to making education accessible and affordable for qualified students by offering competitive merit-based scholarships, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of attendance. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and potential contributions to the university community. Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for federal grants such as the Pell Grant and federal work-study programs to supplement their funding.

The university participates in federal loan programs including the Direct Stafford Loan, which offers low-interest loans to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. Private loans are also available through approved lenders, but students are advised to compare terms carefully and consider federal options first due to favorable interest rates and repayment conditions. Case Western Reserve University offers financial counseling and workshops to assist students in understanding their financial options, developing effective budgets, and planning for repayment after graduation.

International students and out-of-state students have access to some of the same financial aid opportunities as in-state students, though eligibility may differ, and they are encouraged to explore external scholarships, private funding, and external fellowship programs. The university also provides payment plans that allow families to spread the total cost over manageable installments during the academic year. The university’s financial aid office regularly updates resources and maintains transparent communication with students to ensure they are aware of all available funding options.

Furthermore, the university actively seeks partnerships with employers and industry organizations to offer internship stipends, co-op placements, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs. Graduate students may also have access to teaching and research assistantships, which provide stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for teaching or research duties. Overall, Case Western Reserve University’s financing options aim to minimize financial barriers, support student success, and ensure that talented individuals can pursue their educational goals without undue economic hardship.

The Master of Science in Data Science at Case Western Reserve University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze and interpret complex data. The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from computer science, statistics, and domain-specific fields to prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving field of data science. Students engage with a variety of coursework that covers data mining, machine learning, statistical modeling, data visualization, and big data technologies. The program is designed to be flexible, offering both full-time and part-time options to accommodate students' diverse needs.

Students will have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners, providing practical experience and networking opportunities. The program aims to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical data usage, ensuring that graduates can apply their skills responsibly in real-world scenarios. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to pursue careers in data analysis, data engineering, machine learning engineering, and other roles that require advanced data skills across industries such as healthcare, finance, technology, and consulting.

The faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers in data science, statistics, computer science, and related fields, ensuring high-quality instruction and mentorship. The university’s location in Cleveland offers students access to a vibrant urban environment with numerous tech startups, healthcare institutions, and research centers, enriching the academic experience. Overall, the Data Science MSc program at Case Western Reserve University is designed to produce competent, innovative, and ethical data scientists ready to meet the challenges of today’s data-driven world.