The data science revolution is changing how we use statistical analysis to address important social questions. In this flexible-credit master of science program, you will learn advanced quantitative research techniques and apply them to critical policy issues across the social, behavioral, and health sciences, preparing for a career as an applied statistician or data scientist or for doctoral study.
Official Degree Title
Master of Science in Applied Statistics for Social Science Research
Degree
MS
Application Deadline
Fall Start:
January 15
Plan Code
ASSR
Subplan Code
CPM
(Computational Methods)
DSI
(Data Science for Social Impact)
GAS
(General Applied Statistics)
Credits
34–44
Format
Full-time or Part-time
Contact
Concentrations
You will tailor your studies in our program by selecting one of our concentrations to meet your particular interests in the field of applied statistics.
Data Science for Social Impact
Prepare to build research-practice partnerships, become knowledgeable of ethical concerns surrounding data collection and use, and communicate effectively and succinctly research findings and their implications. This is one of the first degree programs in the world to focus on the real-world challenges of using data to inform policy and practice.
Computational Methods
You will experience more rigorous training in methodological theory and development, which is particularly appropriate if you wish to progress to a PhD program in statistics, economics, or computer science.
General Applied Statistics
This concentration offers maximal flexibility, allowing you to customize your studies by selecting from a broad set of statistics and related courses. You can pursue careers in industry, research, and doctoral programs that are consistent with your course work and internship experiences.
Admissions Requirements
Being Quantitatively Competent Matters
In addition to a strong academic record applicants should have majored or minored in a quantitative discipline (such as mathematics, statistics, or computer science) that provides a solid foundation for advanced study of applied statistics or completed a selection of courses typically found in such quantitative disciplines. We strongly encourage individuals who major or minor in other quantitatively rigorous disciplines to apply, if their skills and interests align with the goals of our program.
Writing Skills Matter
We prepare statisticians who can communicate the results of their work to others. Examples of writing ability are important (for example, the statement of purpose, supplemental statement, or analytical writing score of the GRE).
Reasons for Pursuing the MS Matter
Our program has a defined goal and philosophy. We strongly seek candidates who have a clear and demonstrated commitment to making positive social change in the world through thoughtful and intelligent use of data. The majority of the courses in Applied Statistics for Social Science Research (A3SR) program are in the Applied Statistics program. While students have some unrestricted electives that they can use to explore the breadth of opportunities at NYU, this is a degree with targeted academic and training goals. A3SR students become part of a community of like-minded statisticians interested in addressing important social issues.
How to Apply
These instructions and requirements are for all applicants. If you are not a citizen or a permanent resident of the United States, please read the special instructions for international applicants.
Your application will require the following items. The following are acceptable document types for uploads: .pdf, .jpeg, .jpg, .gif, .tiff, .png, .doc, .docx, and bitmap.
1. Prepare Your Application
Résumé/CV
You are required to upload a copy of your most recent résumé or curriculum vitae as part of your application.
ASSR Short Answer Essays
You are required to respond to several essay prompts, in the ASSR Short Answer Essays section of the application. Your response to each question should be no more than 400 words.
ASSR Prerequiste Form
Complete the “ASSR Prerequisite Form” on the application. This form is used to gather your previous background and experiences with mathematics, statistics, and statistical software.
Letters of Recommendation
Submit two letters of recommendation. Be sure to request them well in advance of the deadline. Read detailed instructions on submitting letters of recommendation.
Transcripts
Upload one official copy of transcripts from every postsecondary institution (college/university) you have attended or are attending. Please note: This includes transcripts from institutions where you received transfer credits or did not complete a degree. Make sure to request an official copy of the transcript(s) in advance of the deadline.
Transfer Credits
We understand accepted transfer credits may be clearly listed on your degree awarding institution’s transcript. The Office of Graduate Admissions still requires a transcript from the initial credit-granting institution where you took the course(s). Delay in listing and uploading these transcripts can significantly delay the application review process.
Institutions Outside the US or Canada
If you completed or are completing a degree at an institution outside of the US or Canada, you are required to provide a WES or ECE international credentials evaluation. Please review our requirements for translation and a course-by-course evaluation of your transcripts.
GRE
Optional.
Although the GRE is typically required for this program, for the 2025 admissions cycle the GRE general test score is optional, and the GRE subject test is not required.
The Admissions Committee will review all applications holistically, and the applications submitted without GRE scores will not be disadvantaged in the review. For more information see testing requirements.
Writing Sample
Please submit an academic writing sample in English (a course paper or its equivalent) that is sole-authored by you, of not more than 40 pages that you feel demonstrates your writing and analytic abilities. The sample does not need to display a knowledge of applied statistics or data science.
Proficiency in English
See testing requirements.
2. Apply
Application
After you fill in and upload the required information, you can submit your completed application. Your application must be completed, dated, electronically signed, and submitted by 11:59 p.m. EST of the stated deadline.
Application Fee
You will be prompted to pay a $75 application fee, payable by major credit card only. After submitting your payment, you will see your application status change from “saved” to “submitted.” Please print this screen for your records, as it confirms that your application has been successfully sent to our school. If you have problems submitting your payment, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions. Learn more about our fee waiver policy.
Mailing Additional Items
If any application materials need to be mailed to our office, mail the materials to NYU Steinhardt, Office of Graduate Admissions, 82 Washington Square East, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10003-6680. Please do not mail your materials in binders or folders. Any mailed materials must be received by, not postmarked by, the stated deadline. Only completed applications will be considered and reviewed by the Admissions Committee. Due to high volume, we are unable to confirm receipt of mailed materials.
Application Policies
Application deadlines are "in-office" deadlines, not postmark deadlines. It is your responsibility to ensure that all materials are in the Office of Graduate Admissions by the appropriate deadline, and we reserve the right to return any application that arrives after the deadline. Only completed applications will be considered. Should a deadline fall on a weekend, the in-office deadline will be the next business day. We advise you to apply early.
Please check the online system to confirm that you have successfully submitted your application. Due to the volume of applications and related materials received, the Office of Graduate Admissions will only contact you if your application was successfully submitted and is deemed incomplete because of missing required materials. Otherwise, you will hear from us when the admissions committee has made its decision.
Deferral policy: NYU Steinhardt does not allow deferrals. Applicants who wish to be considered for a future semester must reapply by submitting a new application with all supporting materials, including letters of recommendations, by the application deadline.
3. Receive Your Admission Decision
Decision
You will be notified about your decision by email. Typically, decisions will start going out in late November for Spring semester enrollment and in late March or early April for Summer or Fall enrollment. You may learn of your decision before or after this timeline.
4. Preparing for Matriculation
ASSR Matriculation Preparation
After accepting your offer there are a few required steps to ensure that you are fully prepared for the fall semester. Your admission letter will provide a link to some important next steps. In addition, the A3SR program requires an online placement exam to gauge your background in mathematics and statistics. This will allow us to place you in the most appropriate courses for your first semester. Visit our program page for more information.