Program Leading to the Master of Science Degree
Requirements for Admission
In addition to the general university requirements for admission to master's study described earlier in this bulletin, an applicant's undergraduate major preferably should have been in the mathematical and/or statistical sciences. Students lacking preparation in these areas must make up such deficiencies.
Statistic Sequence (30 Graduate Credits Minimum)
Admission Requirements
In addition to the general University requirements for admission to graduate study, applicants to the graduate programs in Biometry and Statistics are expected to:
Program/Degree Requirements
The Ph.D. Program of study and research normally takes at least four academic years of full-time study and research beyond the baccalaureate. The general program requirements call for a minimum of two years of full- time graduate study (60 credits), or the equivalent, and at least one additional year devoted to the research and writing of an acceptable dissertation. Students must also adhere to the University's requirements as described earlier in this publication.
During the first two years of study the student obtains a general education in statistical theory and methodology. The student develops a program of coursework under the guidance of a faculty advisor and, upon successful completion of the course work, usually receives a Master's Degree at the end of the second year. A Master's Degree is not a prerequisite, but the requirements for one of the Master's Degree Programs described above must be completed by the end of the second year.
Two PRELIMINARY EXAMINATIONS are required and the student normally takes these by the end of the second year of study. One is in the area of mathematical statistics and probability and the other in the area of statistical methodology and applied statistics. The courses required for the preliminary examinations are offered each year and they can be satisfactorily completed in two years. Students entering doctoral program are encouraged to take some work (3-9 credit hours) in mathematics and at least six graduate credit hours in departments other than Biometry and Statistics.
After successfully passing the preliminary examinations, the student begins the process of specialization under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Readiness to begin the dissertation is marked by completion of the QUALIFYING EXAMINATION, which should take place within 18 months after passing the preliminary examinations. Upon completion of the qualifying examination, the student advances to candidacy and begins work on the dissertation.
Research Tool
The research tool requirement for the doctoral degree is met by satisfactorily demonstrating computer literacy; competency is evaluated by the faculty.
Full Time Study in Residence
Students are not required to study full time.
Admission to Candidacy
A student is admitted to candidacy for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy upon the following:
The dissertation is based on independent research by the candidate and should constitute a significant original contribution to the area of biometry and statistics. The dissertation committee consists of at least three members, all of whom must hold the rank of assistant professor or above. One of the committee members must be from outside the Department of Biometry and Statistics. Outside readers may be included at the discretion of the committee. The dissertation must be approved by and successfully defended before the dissertation committee; the defense is open to the University community.