Master of Applied Statistics and Data Science

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of California Los Angeles

Program Overview

The Master of Applied Statistics (MAS) at UCLA is a professionally oriented, STEM-designated graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in data analysis, statistical consulting, and quantitative research across a wide range of industries. Administered by the Department of Statistics and Data Science, this program emphasizes applied learning, statistical computing, and real-world data applications.

Ideal for students from quantitative backgrounds—including mathematics, economics, computer science, or engineering—the MAS program equips graduates with a solid foundation in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data interpretation, tailored for high-impact roles in both the private and public sectors.

Program Format & Duration

  • Full-time, on-campus program (Los Angeles, CA)

  • Duration: 1.5 years (4 quarters + summer)

  • STEM-designated (eligible for up to 3 years OPT)

  • Fall intake only

  • Culminates in a capstone consulting project

Core Curriculum Components

The MAS program offers a comprehensive and practical curriculum grounded in statistical theory, programming, and communication.

Core Courses

  1. Statistical Methods & Modeling

    • Regression Analysis

    • Design of Experiments

    • Generalized Linear Models

    • Multivariate Analysis

    • Time Series Analysis

  2. Statistical Computing & Data Tools

    • Statistical Programming in R and Python

    • Data Wrangling and Visualization

    • Machine Learning Methods

    • Statistical Consulting Practicum

  3. Capstone Consulting Practicum

    • Students work in teams to solve real-world problems posed by external clients

    • Emphasis on communication, stakeholder management, and deliverables

    • Supervised by faculty with industry-relevant expertise

  4. Electives (Sample Options)

    • Bayesian Statistics

    • Nonparametric Methods

    • Survival Analysis

    • Biostatistics and Health Data

    • Data Ethics and Privacy

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

UCLA’s MAS program strongly emphasizes practical and project-based learning to ensure students are career-ready.

Capstone Project

  • A core feature of the program where students work with real companies or research institutions

  • Past clients have included organizations from tech, healthcare, public policy, and finance

  • Final deliverables include a professional report and presentation

Statistical Consulting

  • Students gain hands-on experience through consulting projects under faculty supervision

  • Opportunities to tackle open-ended problems and interface directly with clients

  • Emphasizes critical thinking, adaptability, and data storytelling

Career Development

  • Dedicated career support includes résumé reviews, interview prep, and employer networking

  • Access to UCLA’s vast alumni network and internship opportunities in Los Angeles and beyond

  • Optional internship during the summer quarter

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the UCLA MAS program are well-positioned to enter data-intensive roles across diverse domains such as business, healthcare, entertainment, public policy, and academia.

Career Outcomes

Common job titles include:

  • Data Analyst

  • Statistician

  • Data Scientist

  • Quantitative Researcher

  • Statistical Programmer

  • Risk or Marketing Analyst

Top Employers

Alumni are placed at:

  • Google, Netflix, Amazon

  • Cedars-Sinai, Amgen, UCLA Health

  • Disney, Sony Pictures

  • Federal and State Government Agencies

  • Consulting firms, financial services, and startups

Further Study

Graduates may also pursue:

  • PhDs in Statistics, Biostatistics, or Data Science

  • MBA or MPA programs with a data analytics concentration

  • Professional certifications in data tools or platforms

Program Key Stats

$28,098
$ 155
Aug Intake : 1st Feb


17 %
No
Yes
Yes
No

Eligibility Criteria

3.4 GPA
3 Year

325
160
3.5
NA
7.0
100
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Data Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Business Analyst
  • Statistician
  • Statistical Programmer
  • SAS Programmer
  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • Deep Learning Engineer
  • AI Researcher
  • Data Engineer
  • BI Developer
  • Data Architect
  • Analytics Consultant
  • Advisory Consultant
  • Quantitative Analyst
  • Risk Analyst
  • Operations Analyst
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Research Scientist
  • Insights Analyst
  • Forecasting Analyst
  • Healthcare Data Analyst
  • Financial Data Analyst
  • Product Analyst

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