Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Statistics and Psychometrics
Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Statistics and Psychometrics
Get ahead of big data
There is increasing demand from organizations, technology companies, governments, and non-profit agencies for data analysis to understand organizational, societal and scientific needs to improve evidence-based organizational decision-making and practices. The M.S in Applied Statistics and Psychometrics responds to this demand and provides a depth and breadth of statistical and psychometric expertise. Students will graduate prepared to conduct a variety of research and advanced level statistical analyses.
Program Features:
- Exposure to the latest trends in psychometric theory and research
- Coursework in advanced statistics that builds applied skills in complex data and psychometric analyses
- Hands-on internship opportunities to work with organizations such as Facebook, Cognia (Measured Progress), ACT, Aetna Health, and ETS.
- A commitment to organizational, educational, and behavioral improvement and equity through evidence-based research.
- Understand the theory of applied statistics and psychometrics
- Conduct analyses using advanced procedures such as multiple regression, multivariate models, hierarchical linear modeling, causal modeling, and longitudinal analyses
- Interpret and report quantitative and qualitative designs, procedures, and results
- Design, conduct, analyze, interpret and report both Classical Test Theory and Item Response Theory analyses
- Communicate research findings effectively including in reports and data visualizations
- Ensure equity and social justice in testing and assessment.
What is psychometrics?
Psychometrics is the field of science associated with the development of quantitative instruments, such as tests and psychological scales, that measure knowledge, skills and attributes.
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ADVANCE YOUR DATA SKILLS FOR THE COMMON GOOD
Graduates of the program gain the skills to work as:
Data Scientist
Data Analyst
Research Associate
Product Manager
Statistical Analyst, Statistician
Psychometrician
Business Analyst
At a Glance
How many courses?
This program consists of 10 courses for a total of 30 credits.
How long will it take?
Students will typically complete the program between 2-3 years.
When can I start?
Students can begin the program in the spring, summer, or fall semesters.
What are my options?
Students can enroll full-time or part-time for this program.
What will I study?
Curriculum
- Courses: 10
- Credits: 30
- Comprehensive Exam
| Course | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| MESA7642 | Assessment and Test Construction This course addresses the major issues of educational assessment, with emphasis on the characteristics, administration, scoring, and interpretation of both formal and informal assessments, including but not limited to tests of achievement. All forms of assessment are examined including observation, portfolios, performance tasks, and paper-and-pencil tests, including standardized tests. Basic techniques of test construction, item writing, and analysis are included. Standardized norm-referenced tests and statewide testing programs are also examined. |
3 |
| MESA7601 | Introduction to Mathematical Statistics Quantitative methods in educational and psychological research have become increasingly complex over time, employing more sophisticated models and estimation strategies. This course helps students to develop a deeper understanding of the strengths and limitations of different approaches to inference and to appreciate some of the ongoing arguments among the adherents of the different philosophies regarding statistical inference. |
3 |
| MESA8667 | General Linear Models Addresses the construction, interpretation, and application of linear statistical models. Specifically, lectures and computer exercises cover ordinary least squares regression models; matrix algebra operations; parameter estimation techniques; missing data options; power transformations; exploratory versus confirmatory model building; linear-model diagnostics, sources of multicollinearity; diagnostic residual analysis techniques; variance partitioning procedures; dummy, effect, and orthogonal coding procedures; and an introduction to structural equation modeling. |
3 |
| MESA7469 | Intermediate Statistics Topics and computer exercises address tests of means, partial and part correlations, multiple regression, analysis of variance with planned and post hoc comparisons, analysis of covariance, repeated measures analysis, elements of experimental design, and power analysis. |
3 |
| MESA8668 | Multivariate Statistical Analysis This course provides lectures, examples, and lab analyses that address multinomial and ordinal logistic regression models, multiple group discriminant analysis, cluster analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, principal component analysis, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. We cover various issues related to research design, model building, and the interpretation of the output from SPSS, R, Lisrel, and SAS software programs. |
3 |
| MESA8669 | Psychometric Theory: Classical Test Theory and Rasch Models Presents a study of theoretical concepts, statistical models, and practical applications in educational and psychological measurement. General topics include the history of measurement, Thurstone and Guttman scales, classical true-score theory, and item response theory. Specific topics include principles of Rasch measurement, parameter estimation procedures, fit statistics, item banking, and computer adaptive testing. |
3 |
| MESA8670 | Psychometric Theory II: Item Response Theory This course presents an advanced study of theoretical concepts, statistical models, and practical applications in educational and psychological measurement. Topics include item response theory, two-parameter model, three-parameter model, methods for estimating latent trait and item parameters, models for polytomously scored items, differential Item Functioning(DIF), test equating , vertical scaling, computerized adaptive testing, standard setting, and multidimensional item response theory models. The IRT software or tools used in this course include R, IRTPRO, BILOG-MG, PARSCALE, NOHARM, DIF related software, STUIRT, ST., EQUATE, etc. |
3 |
| MESA8861 | Multilevel Regression Modeling This course introduces students to multilevel regression modeling (aka hierarchical models or mixed effects models) for analyzing data with a nesting or hierarchical structure. We discuss the appropriate uses of multilevel regression modeling, the statistical models that underpin the approach, and how to construct models to address substantive issues. We consider a variety of types of models, including random intercept, and random slope and intercept models; models for longitudinal data; and models for discrete outcomes. We cover various issues related to the design of multilevel studies, model building and the interpretation of the output from HLM and SPSS software programs. |
3 |
Students will select 2 electives (3 credits each) with the help of their advisor.
| Course | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| MESA8100 | Master's Comprehensive Exam In order to ensure that all students graduating from the master's program have a fundamental understanding of the field which they are about to enter, they are required to complete a written comprehensive examination covering the broad areas of the core courses. |
0 |
MESA Research Centers
The national and international demand for sophisticated education researchers is reflected at Boston College through the two world renowned Lynch School of Education and Human Development and MESA‐affiliated research centers:
The TIMSS and PIRLS International Study Center
The Center for the Study of Testing, Evaluation, and Educational Policy
The Center conducts comparative studies in educational achievement throughout the world and directs two main efforts—Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS)—under the auspices of the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement.
CSTEEP conducts its work on both small and large scales, working with individual schools, districts, states, as well as countries to advance educational testing practices and policy, and to improve the quality and fairness of education.
Alumni Profiles
Learn about MESA M.S. alumni careers.
Where do our graduates work?
American Institutes for Research
Researcher
Northern Illinois University
Assistant Professor
Bank of America Operations
Project Analyst
Hanover Research
Research Associate
Pearson
Director of Efficacy Analytics and Studies
Cumberland County College
President
ACT Inc.
Principal Psychometrician
Measured Progress
Director, Innovation Lab
Maguire Associates
Senior Vice President of Research
Sheffield Research and Evaluation
Senior Consultant
Career paths chosen by previous graduates of the MESA Department.
Financial Assistance
Education should level the playing field. We feel the same way about financial aid.
The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides more than $7.5 million in financial aid to students each year. As a result, the quality of BC’s instruction, the benefit of our alumni network, and the impact a BC degree will have on your employment options is both affordable and invaluable.
Deadlines
- Regular Decision
- 1/6
- Rolling Admission
- Until 8/1
- Intl. Applicants
- Until 7/1
- Spring
Regular Decision - 11/1
- Summer
Regular Decision - 4/1
Apply Now
Apply Now
A non-refundable application fee of $75 is required, however, this fee is waived for select applicants.
Resume
To be uploaded to your online Application Form.
In addition to your academic history and relevant work experience, please include any licenses currently held, any social justice-related experience, any language skills other than English, and any research experience or publications.
Personal Statement
To be uploaded to your online Application Form.
In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.
Letters of Recommendation
Identification of recommenders/instructions to recommenders are outlined in the online Application Form.
Two letters of recommendation are required with at least one required from an academic source. Applicants with significant relevant professional experience may submit additional recommendations from supervisors.
Transcripts
Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in lieu of official transcripts for the application review process. In the event that one is admitted into a program and enrolls, our office will need official transcripts prior to course registration. To expedite application processing times, our office encourages you to send unofficial transcripts electronically to our email address at GSOE@BC.EDU. Please note that unofficial transcripts must include all of the following items:
- Course titles and grades for each course
- Year and entry term for each of the courses listed
- Translated into English by certified translation agent (if not already in English)
- Original and translated transcripts must be provided
If you are able to secure official transcripts, please note the following:
- An official postsecondary transcript must be printed on official institutional paper and include at least one of the following: an institutional watermark, the registrar’s signature, or the registrar's seal.
- Copies and unofficial transcripts sent directly from applicants are not acceptable, the transcript must come directly from the institution.
- If you are a current student and have not completed your undergraduate and/or graduate degree, the most updated version of your transcript is acceptable.
Official electronic transcripts are accepted when sent directly to gsoe@bc.edu from the institution. When requesting electronic transcripts, you must manually type in gsoe@bc.edu to ensure it is received by our office.
Mailed transcript(s) should be sent to the following address:
Lynch Office of Graduate Admissions, Boston College
Campion Hall 135
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Standardized Tests
For all Boston College students and alumni
If you received any type of degree from Boston College, or if you are a current Boston College student, the GRE is not required.
For all other applicants
If you did not receive a degree from Boston College or if you are not a current Boston College student, the GRE is required.
The Lynch School GRE code is 3218.
Writing Sample
Not required.
International Students
International applicants are encouraged to apply to the Lynch School of Education and Human Development. Learn about requirements for international students.
Academic Tools
Contact Us
gsoe@bc.edu
617-552-4214