This program consists of 30 credits and has a thesis option. If the student chooses the thesis option, it is necessary to sign up for and pass STAT 698 for at least 3 credit hours of MS research, culminating in an oral defense with the advisory committee.<br><br>If the student does not choose the thesis option, an oral examination is required. The oral examination may consist of the presentation and discussion of a published paper chosen by the student and the Chair of the student's M.S. advisory committee. No credit is given for the oral examination. In the case that the student has accumulated three points from the qualifying examinations, the oral examination may be waived.