Admissions

The statistics MS program is designed to provide students with a strong mathematical foundation in statistics, and is taught at a moderately high mathematical level. We recommend applicants to have had at least three semesters of calculus, including multivariable calculus, and also one semester in linear algebra. A course in undergraduate analysis is also desirable. In addition, applicants to our program should have at least one course in both undergraduate probability and statistics. Applicants need to have excellent test scores and grades in all required subjects; in particular, recent successful applicants have had overall GPAs of 3.8 and higher. A score of 100 or higher on the TOEFL is required. We typically receive many more well-qualified applicants than there are available positions, so the field is competitive. Financial support for statistics MS students is extremely limited and only provided in exceptional cases; the vast majority of statistics MS students provide their own financial support.

We are not able to make preliminary determinations regarding the chances of a prospective student's acceptance into our program, or for our awarding of support. Students who are seriously interested in studying at USC should submit a fully completed application package, which is available upon request by writing to Amy Yung at amy@math.usc.edu. All application materials must by received by February 1 in order to be considered for admission for the following Fall.

Applicants applying from within USC may be able to waive the requirements for a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a CV/resume, but are still bound by the February 1 deadline.

For general information on graduate study in Mathematics at USC, go here.