1. What are the primary strengths of the AQR program?
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* A degree program tailored for superior training in applied quantitative research methods. The AQR program is specially tailored to provide students with advanced, focused training on the techniques and perspectives needed to conduct applied data analysis. Combining rigorous coursework in quantitative research techniques with a focus on their application, students graduate from the AQR program poised to enter any of a wide array of professional opportunities.
* Experience working with “real-world” data
Many master’s degree programs that provide training in quantitative analysis neglect the essential skills and tools necessary to work with “real-world” data, leaving students unprepared for the challenges they are likely to face upon graduation. The AQR program ensures that graduates are prepared to address these challenges through the required coursework.
* Emphasis on communicating about research
There are numerous programs that train students to conduct analysis; however, few match AQR’s emphasis on establishing the skills to communicate with a variety of audiences about research. Through coursework that emphasizes effective written and oral communication, the AQR program helps develop the tools essential for success in their professional pursuits.
* Location – New York City
We are located in New York City, one of the world’s most dynamic cities and an international hub for global research, business, finance, communications, and science. The AQR program explicitly draws upon the resources of the city, connecting students to the vibrant world of cutting edge research in which NYU is located.
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2. What can I do with an AQR degree following graduation?
In a world where quantitative analytical skills are increasingly in demand, graduates of the AQR program will be in a prime position to choose from a variety of careers. Some students have gone on to Ph.D. programs, and others are working as data analysts and research coordinators for foundations and private industry. Some students are now employed full-time by NYU in institutional research capacities. The tools that students develop through the AQR program will allow them to find employment opportunities in a number of traditional or emerging fields requiring the use of advanced statistical training.
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3. Is the AQR Program a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program?
Yes, the AQR program is classified as a Statistics program (CIP Code 27.0501), which the Department of Homeland Security considers a STEM field for purposes of the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension described at 8 CFR 214.2(f). This information is current as of May 2017. Please consult the NYU Office of Global Services for up-to-date information related to STEM eligibility.
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4. Does the AQR program lead to the Ph.D. program in Sociology at NYU?
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No. The two programs are separate and completing the AQR MA does not admit you to the NYU Ph.D. program in sociology. However, AQR does provide outstanding preparation for a sociology Ph.D. and several of our best AQR graduates did apply and were admitted to our Ph.D. program.
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5. What are the criteria for admission?
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Applicants must submit the following in order to have their application reviewed:
- Statement of purpose
- Academic transcript(s) from previous institution(s)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Letters of recommendation
- Official test scores from ETS (GRE and, where required, TOEFL)
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6. What kinds of backgrounds do AQR students have?
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AQR students come from diverse academic backgrounds, including, but not limited to, sociology, statistics, psychology, international business, and management of culture. Any students with interests in quantitative analysis, and experience with undergraduate statistics, should consider AQR to be a viable option, regardless of major.
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7. Is the GRE required?
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Yes. All applicants must take the general test of the GRE administered by the Educational Testing Service, Princeton, NJ 08540. ( http://www.ets.org/). Applicants should be sure that official test scores are sent directly to GSAS from ETS. You should send them to the Graduate School of the Arts and Science code 2596.
**Please note that we only accept GRE scores.** The GRE general exam is required for all applicants.
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8. Do international students have to take the TOEFL?
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All international students must take either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) ( See http://www.toefl.org/), or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (See https://www.ielts.org). Exceptions to this rule include students who obtained a degree from English-speaking college-level institutions and students from English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia. For the TOEFL, the Graduate School recommends that the applicant achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 100 on the internet-based test. For the IELTS, a minimum overall band score of at least 7 is recommended. For more information regarding the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences tests requirements please see: http://www.gsas.nyu.edu/page/grad.admissionsapplication
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9. How do I apply?
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Please refer to NYU's GSAS Application Resource Center for instructions, the application, supporting forms, and other resources: http://gsas.nyu.edu/page/grad.admissionsapplication
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10. What is the deadline for applying?
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The recommended application submission date is January 15, with a final deadline of April 30.
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11. Is financial aid available?
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Like almost all M.A. programs, fellowships and assistantships are not available for students in the AQR program.
However, the Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) at NYU is an important source of financial aid for master's students. TIP provides tuition support to recipients of external awards. Students receiving external awards of $13,000 or more from recognized, academic sources of funding outside of the University can apply for matching tuition points up to the amount of their outside awards. Students receiving external awards of less than $13,000 may apply for matching tuition points up to 50% of the amount of the external award. The Graduate School typically award funds to between 20 and 30 students a year. We encourage students to apply.
More information on graduate financial aid is available at http://gsas.nyu.edu/page/grad.financialaid. If you have additional questions, please email us at aqr.ma@nyu.edu.
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12. What is the average GPA and GRE score of students admitted to the AQR program?
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We do not keep track of the average GPA or GRE score of admitted students. GPAs and GREs are one of several factors we consider when making admission decisions. We also consider research experiences, statement of research interests, fit with the graduate program, and other factors.
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13. Can I do the program part time?
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Many of our students work full-time while completing the MA. Core classes are held in the late afternoons and evenings, which is conducive to many work schedules. However, students should be prepared to take at least 10 credits per semester, in order to complete the program within 18 months. Exceptions to this will be considered as appropriate. See a sample part time schedule here.
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14. Do you do on-campus interviews?
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We don’t do interviews, however we will be holding several "open house" sessions (both on campus and online) where prospective students can ask questions and learn more about the program. Please check here for information about upcoming open house sessions.
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