MAS Program - Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between MAS program and MS, Ph.D. program in Statistics Department at Penn State?
  MAS is a professional degree which will provide training in statistics focused on developing data analysis skills and exploration of all core areas of applied statistics. Its standard curriculum prepares students to seek employment after graduation or to seek an advanced degree in another field of study. On the other hand, the MS curriculum prepares students to further the studies in the Ph.D. program in Statistics.
   
• What criteria are used for selecting new MAS students?
  The MAS graduate admissions committee considers grades, particularly in quantitative courses, GRE scores, letter of recommendations and statement of purpose. Prior working experience will also be taken into consideration. The Graduate School (www.gradsch.psu.edu) has a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (paper test) or a score of 213 (computer-based test), a total score of 80 with a 20 on the speaking section (internet-based test), or a minimum composite score of 6.5 on the IELTS.
   
• How many students are admitted each year?
  The MAS program admits 11 to 14 students each year.
   
• How are MAS students funded?
  The Statistics Department does not provide teaching or research assistantship to students in MAS program. The students will need to either have their own funds or get funding from other sources.
   
• Should I send in all my letters of reference with my application, or should each reference send his/her own letter?
  To avoid delays, it is better for the applicant to send everything together.
   
• What is the application deadline for the MAS program?
  The deadline for Summer and Fall application is February 1st. Late application will be accepted if space is available, until May 1 for Summer admission and until July 1 for Fall admission.
   
• When will I know if I am admitted?
  For applications that are completed by Feb 1, we usually have made decisions around mid-March. Some applicants will be put on the waiting list. You can contact us to check your status if you have not heard from us by then.
   
• Can I visit Penn State?
  Yes, we are always happy to have interested applicants for campus visits. We can arrange for you to meet with faculty, attend a class and meet with current MAS students, etc.
   
• What is the application procedure for a concurrent degree?
  Concurrent degree applicants will need to submit a “Plan of study for Concurrent Degree Form” which can be obtained from the Graduate School. For the three letters of recommendation, one has to be from their Advisor. The applicants should make an appointment with Dr. Mosuk Chow (mchow@stat.psu.edu) to discuss the plan of study before submitting the application. The application deadline for Fall is Feb 01 or until spaces are filled. The admissions decision for concurrent degree students is usually made in mid-June.
   
• Who to contact for questions about application to MAS program?
  For questions concerning the applications about the MAS program, you should contact Mosuk Chow, Program Director of MAS, by e-mail: mchow@stat.psu.edu or by phone: (814) 863-8128.