Applied Statistics and Research Methods MS
- Master's
- MS
- In-Person
- Greeley
Fall and Spring
Program Overview
Every industry needs people who can make sense of complex data and drive evidence-based decisions. Healthcare organizations analyzing patient outcomes. Tech companies optimizing user experiences. Government agencies shaping policy. Businesses forecasting market trends. They’re all searching for professionals with research and statistical skills.
Our Master of Science in Applied Statistics and Research Methods gives you exactly what employers are looking for: the ability to design rigorous research, analyze complex datasets, and communicate findings that actually matter. Through a powerful combination of core and elective coursework, you’ll gain hands-on experience using statistical software and applying research methods to address real-world problems.
Turn Data Into Decisions
In our MS in Applied Statistics and Research Methods, you won’t just work do theoretical exercises with clean datasets. You’ll work with real-world data from actual organizations. You’ll master industry-standard statistical software. You’ll design studies, run analyses and present findings to stakeholders who need answers.
To apply to the MS in Applied Statistics and Research Methods program, you must first submit your application through the UNC Graduate School. We’ll review applications after all required materials have been received. Incomplete applications will delay the review process.
Applicants must:
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Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (or an equivalent degree from a foreign university).
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Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) for the most recent degree earned or the degree currently in progress.
If you are still completing your undergraduate degree when you apply, admission will be based on your current GPA. You must submit an official transcript showing your conferred degree and final GPA during your first semester at UNC. Applicants whose final GPA falls below 3.0 may be given additional academic requirements to remain enrolled.
If you have already completed a master’s degree — or at least 18 credits toward one—your graduate GPA will be used in the admission review.
The M.S. in Applied Statistics and Research Methods requires 30–35 total credits, including 11 credits of core courses and a concentration in either Applied Statistics or Research Methods.
Students planning on concentrating on applied statistics need a working knowledge of calculus and linear algebra. Students planning on the research methods concentration do not need to meet this requirement.
Core coursework builds a foundation in applied statistics, statistical computing, research design, and consulting. Students then customize their studies through one of two concentration areas to align with their career goals. A final master’s project and written comprehensive examination complete the program.
You can customize your learning by choosing electives that align with your career goals — whether that’s biostatistics, predictive modeling, survey methodology or experimental design.
By graduation, you’ll be ready to make informed decisions and contribute valuable insights in tackle data-driven challenges in such fields as healthcare, business, government and research. Plus, you’ll have a portfolio of work that proves you can deliver results.
Your master’s degree in Applied Statistics and Research Methods at UNC, opens doors to roles like:
- Data Analyst – Transform raw numbers into strategic insights that drive million-dollar decisions
- Research Specialist – Design studies that answer the questions keeping executives up at night
- Program Evaluator – Determine what’s working, what’s not, and why it matters
- Biostatistician – Analyze clinical trials and advance medical breakthroughs
- Market Research Analyst – Predict consumer behavior and shape product strategies
- Policy Analyst – Use evidence to inform legislation and public programs
Discover What Sets UNC Apart
Partner with Experts
Through the Evaluation Research Center, you’ll gain access to a team of graduate researchers who bring advanced data analysis and evaluation expertise to your organization.
Get the Support You Need to Excel
UNC’s Research Consulting Lab offers free guidance on survey design, data analysis, and statistical software training—so you can focus on producing high-quality, impactful research.
Advance Your Research.
Our free tutoring connects you with experienced graduate tutors who guide you through everything from core concepts to advanced statistical analysis.
Where Can Your Degree Take You?
Shape Decisions with Data
Healthcare systems rely on statisticians to enhance patient outcomes and reduce costs. Schools and nonprofits need evaluators to demonstrate the effectiveness of their programs. Corporations need analysts to forecast trends and optimize operations. Engineering firms need researchers to test innovations and solve complex problems.
Put your analytical skills to work in fields ranging from healthcare and education to business and engineering.
UNC Applied Statistics and Research Methods students turn data into discovery through collaborative, hands-on learning experiences.
Hands-On Statistical Skills to Make Real-World Impact
You won’t just learn statistics — you’ll become the person organizations turn to when they need answers.
In our Applied Statistics and Research Methods MS program, you’ll design studies that hold up under scrutiny. You’ll analyze messy datasets into meaningful insights. You’ll master the statistical software that’s industry standard — not because you memorized commands — but because you’ve used them to solve actual problems.
Every course connects to real work. You’ll collaborate on research projects with faculty who are publishing in top journals and consulting with major organizations. Our faculty have won national teaching and research awards — but more importantly, they’re invested in your success.
Applied Statistics and Research Methods graduate student builds real-world problem-solving skills through hands-on data analysis and applied research.
Our students are making a difference through research
Research on Vaccine Hesitancy
I’m investigating how different decision-making styles may predict vaccine hesitancy. When health care providers have a better understanding of how to reach people on a level they can receive, they may be able to mitigate or eliminate vaccine hesitancy.
Charlene Brown
Applied Statistics and Research Methods Phd
Social Issues Using Data Science
Three strong interests that have been developing steadily for years are statistics, society and health. When I was in Ghana, I focused mostly on theoretical statistics, but at UNC, I’ve had opportunities for hands-on research and collaborations with experienced faculty members in diverse fields,
Felix Junior Appiah Kubi
Applied Statistics and Research Methods PhD
Have questions? We're here to help!
Applied Statistics & Research Methods
Welcome to the Applied Statistics and Research Methods program where data meets impact. Solve today’s challenges with statistics.
- asrm@unco.edu
- 970-351-4221
- McKee Hall 518