Statistics

The Department of Mathematical Sciences at Ball State University offers a Master's degree (M.A.) program in Statistics, which include a year's sequence in the mathematical theory of statistics and a similar sequence in probability and stochastic processes. We also offer graduate courses in applied statistics. These courses are regression analysis, analysis of variance, design of experiments, and theory of sampling and surveys. From time to time we also offer courses in other areas, such as nonparametric statistics, logistic regression, multivariate statistics, and quality control.

In view of the fact that industry, business, and government these days desire that statisticians also have competence in the use of statistical packages, we emphasize that statistics majors need some experience with statistical packages and as such we use statistical packages in some of the courses. The statistics program normally takes two academic years. Students graduating with master's degrees in statistics from this department have been very successful in obtaining jobs in industry, business, and government. Graduates of this program have also been successful in doctoral programs in other universities.

Application/Admission Requirements

The applicants for the M.A. in Statistics must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate School. The program assumes that the student has the mathematical maturity acquired by taking several courses beyond the first calculus sequence.

International students must apply through the Rinker Center for International Programs. International students are also required to take the TOEFL exam.

Graduate Assistantships

The Department generally supports approximately 21 students in various degree programs with graduate assistantships. There are normally approximately 11 of these assistantships available to award each year. If you wish to be supported by a graduate assistantship, you must make application directly to the Department. Please complete the on-line application form available at www.bsu.edu/web/math, download a copy of the application packet, or contact the Director of Graduate Programs, Dr. Richard Stankewitz (mathsci@bsu.edu) to request that a packet be sent by mail. Please provide a full mailing address in your e-mail message and also indicate your intended program of study.

The GRE is not required for admission, but scores may be sent to the Department to bolster the student's application for a graduate assistantship. Review of assistantship applications begins February 1. Applications received by that time will be given full consideration for the first round of offers. Applications received after that date will be considered for subsequent rounds of offers.

Other Graduate Degrees Offered by the Department of Mathematical Sciences

Master of Arts (M.A). in Actuarial Science
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Mathematics
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Mathematics Education
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Science and Science Education

Contact Information

Dr. Mir Ali, program advisor for Statistics
(765) 285-8670
mathsci@bsu.edu

Dr. Richard Stankewitz, Director of Graduate Programs
Department of Mathematical Sciences
(765) 285-8645
mathsci@bsu.edu