Statistics
Master of Science (M.S.)
Degree Curriculum
This Master of Science in Statistics program is no longer accepting applications. Visit the Master of Applied Statistics page to learn more about our new applied statistics degree program.
The course requirements for this master's degree in statistics are designed in three groups to cover the various topics necessary to acquire an in-depth understanding of statistics.
- Group I – fundamental topics of probability, mathematical statistics, and statistical methodology.
- Group II – provide you with an exposure to a range of areas in statistics.
- Group III – allow further specialization in a subject area of interest to you.
Courses are scheduled to include summer sessions which allows, but does not require, you to complete the program in less than five years. Summer courses are 12-week courses instead of the 16 weeks available in spring and fall.
Group I (all courses are required)
- STAT 501 - Statistical Science (1 cr.)
- STAT 520 - Introduction to Probability Theory (4 cr.)
- STAT 530 - Mathematical Statistics (3 cr.)
- STAT 540 - Data Analysis and Regression (3 cr.)
- STAT 586 - Practicum in Consulting Techniques (1 cr.)
- STAT 640 - Design and Linear Modeling I (4 cr.)
- STAT 699 - Thesis (minimum of 3 cr.)
Group II (select two courses – 6 credits required)
These courses are typically offered at least once every fourth semester.
- STAT 521 - Stochastic Processes I (3 cr.)
OR
STAT 525 - Analysis of Time Series I (3 cr.) - STAT 605 - Theory of Sampling Techniques (3 cr.)
OR
STAT 650 - Design and Linear Modeling II (3 cr.)
Group III (select three courses – 9 credits required)
The remaining courses from Group II or other interdisciplinary courses from an approved list (e.g., epidemiology, signal processing, biostatistics, fisheries and wildlife, economics, environmental sciences, etc.), or the following:
- STAT 522 - Stochastic Processes II (3 cr.)
- STAT 523 - Quantitative Spatial Analysis (3 cr.)
- STAT 526 - Analysis of Time Series II (3 cr.)
- STAT 560 - Applied Multivariate Analysis (3 cr.)
- STAT 570 - Nonparametric Statistics (3 cr.)
- STAT 600 - Statistical Computing (3 cr.)
- STAT 645 - Categorical Analysis and GLIM (3 cr.)
- STAT 675K - Topics in Statistical Methods (Bayesian) (3 cr.)
When are courses offered?
Courses are offered on a rotating basis or when the Department of Statistics predicts that there will be sufficient demand for them. View the schedule of upcoming distance course offerings.
Degree at a Glance
This program is no longer accepting applications.
Delivery
Online. On-campus attendance is not required to complete this program.
Total credits
34 credits
Tuition
$619 per credit
(financial aid available)
Time frame
Can be completed in five years. Program duration may vary based on previous coursework, intensity of study, and course availability. Summer courses are not required.
Designed for
Professionals in business, industry, government, medicine, computer science, economics, actuarial science, engineering, environmental studies, psychology, wildlife biology, fisheries, sociologies, and others who may need to obtain the essential tools of probability and statistics.
What you will earn
You will earn the same regionally-accredited Colorado State University degree that a student on the Fort Collins campus is awarded. Your diploma and transcript are identical to those awarded to on-campus students.

