Quantitative Methods
Graduate Certificate in Quantitative Methods for the Social and Behavioral Sciences
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Certificate Information
As quantitative methods have advanced and become integral to the research process in social and behavioral sciences, knowledge of these techniques is critical for producing and consuming modern research. The objective of the Graduate Certificate in Quantitative Methods for the Social and Behavioral Sciences (GC-QMSBS) is to train individuals in the interpretation, application, and design of advanced statistical methods and their applications in behavioral and social sciences. This is necessary as, unlike the biological and medical sciences, the statistical methods utilized by the social sciences are based on a unique set of assumptions and challenges that arise from behavioral data.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:
- differentiate between the various statistical procedures that are commonly found in top tier journals and apply those to their specific field of study,
- describe the assumptions associated with these procedures and the steps that must be taken to ensure that they are not violated,
evaluate the statistical procedures used in the research of others and
- evaluate both the appropriateness and impact on the presented conclusions,
- and clearly present and communicate the results from their own statistical analyses to colleagues and employers.
For most individuals, the acquisition of advanced statistical skills has a direct impact on their overall employability. The completion of the certificate provides students with tangible evidence of these skills and will make them stronger job candidates post-graduation.
Gainful Employment Information (PDF)
Course Requirements
The GC-QMSBS currently consists of 5 courses (15 s.h.). The following courses are required:
- PSYC 6430 – Statistics and Research Design (3). P: Consent of chair. Inferential statistical application and research methodologies.
- PSYC 6437 – Psychometrics (3). P: Consent of chair; PSYC 6430 or equivalent (inferential) statistics course. Rationale and techniques of psychological measurement. Advanced estimates of reliability and validity, questionnaire and test construction, and fair employment procedures.
- PSYC 7431 – Regression and ANOVA (3). P: Consent of chair and PSYC 6430 or equivalent (inferential) statistics course. Computation and interpretation of regression and ANOVA models.
- PSYC 7433 – Multivariate Statistical Analysis (3). P: PSYC 7431 or consent of chair. Computation and interpretation of multivariate statistical analyses.
- PSYC 7505 – Structural Equation and Hierarchical Linear Modeling (3). P: PSYC 7433 or consent of program director or chair. Computation and interpretation of causal and multi-level statistical models.
As many programs within the university already offer similar courses, students will be allowed to substitute up to two of the required courses with other statistics courses offered by the university following approval of the certificate coordinator.
How to Apply
Students currently pursuing a degree or certificate program and want to add a certificate should complete the “Add a Certificate” request form. This is an electronic form requiring the approval of the current program director and the desired certificate program director. It moves to each person electronically. The form is located on the Graduate School website under Current Students > Academic Support > Academic Policies and Forms.