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master of science degree in Research, Statistics & Measurement (RSM)


two students in classThis master of science program prepares research specialists. The curriculum is designed to develop ability in statistical analysis, construction of psychological and educational tests and questionnaires, research methodology, quantitative analysis,
evaluation of social and educational programs and personnel, operations research, and computer applications using different software for mainframes and personal computers.

Admission

To be accepted to the RSM program at Southern Connecticut State University, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Hold a bachelor's degree
  • Present two letters of recommendations 
  • Submit a writing sample
  • Have an undergraduate quality point ratio of at least 2.7 with evidence of achievement in research-related courses
  • Pass a personal interview conducted by an RSM faculty member 

Program Requirements

Research Methods and Evaluation Courses (two courses required)
RSM 594 - Methods of Research and Evaluation in the Behavioral Sciences
RSM 630 - Survey Research and Survey Sampling for the Behavioral Sciences
RSM 585 - Qualitative Research Methods

Statistics Courses (four courses required)
RSM 593 - Probability and Statistical Inference
RSM 597 - Research Design and Analysis of Variance and Covariance
RSM 610 - Applied Regression/Correlational Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences
RSM 620 - Multivariate Analysis
RSM 625 - Using Computers to make Data-Based Decisions

Test and Measurement Courses (one course required)
RSM 595 - Psychological and Educational Measurements: Psychometric Theory
RSM 596 - Modern Instrument Construction Methods

Other Electives
RSM 591 - Educational Measurement for Classroom Teachers
EDU 592 - Research in Education
RSM 598 - Evaluation of Programs and Personnel
MKT 425 - Marketing Research

Capstone Experience:

A student may choose a program with a thesis or a comprehensive examination. In a thesis program, a minimum of 33 credits must be completed, 27 credits in coursework and 6 credits in thesis seminar. In a program with a comprehensive examination, a minimum of 33 credits in coursework and the comprehensive examination must be satisfactorily completed.

Thesis Option

It is the candidate's responsiblity to have formulated a preliminary idea to be researched and to seek out a faculty member in the department who is interested in serving as thesis sponsor. The thesis option is granted to students who have accumulated at least 15 graduate credits in the Research, Statistics and Measurement program with a grade point average of at least "B+" (3.3). The normal sequence is to register for RSM 590 -Thesis Seminar I: Proposal, in the fall semester after securing a sponsor. The fall semester is devoted to developing a thesis proposal. After the proposal is approved by the sponsor, thesis committee, and graduate dean, the student registers for RSM 601 - Thesis Seminar II: Thesis Completion, for the spring semester. The completed thesis is reviewed for acceptance by the sponsor, thesis committee, and the graduate dean.

Comprehensive Examination Option 

A comprehensive examination is required in addition to 33 credits of coursework. Students choosing this option should select their courses so that they are well prepared for the different sections of the examination. The comprehensive examination will be scheduled twice a year, in April and November. Students selecting this option should apply to the Graduate Program Coordinator no later than the second week of classes of the semester in which they intend to take the exam.