Survey research is a profession that combines knowledge from statistics, sociology, psychology, political science, economics, computer science, and business management. It's difficult to prepare for a career in survey research within one discipline. That's exactly the reason that in 1992 the National Science Foundation created the Joint Program in Survey Methodology (JPSM) an interdisciplinary Masters program designed to give students the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare for a career in survey research.

In this two year program, you will learn the statistical foundations of sampling and estimation in complex surveys. You will study the new developments in questionnaire design. You will learn how computer assistance in data collection and different modes of data collection can be used to improve survey data. You will learn how to analyze survey data properly reflecting the complex survey design features. You will learn about total survey error perspectives on survey design and analysis.