Statistical Consulting Center

The Statistical Consulting Center (SCC) offers expert support to faculty and graduate students at every stage of the research process. From designing your study to interpreting results, our team is here to help you sharpen your approach and elevate the quality of your work.

What we offer

We provide guidance on:

  • Research design and planning
  • Experimental design and survey methods
  • Statistical analysis techniques
  • Use of software such as SPSS, SAS, R, Minitab, and Excel
  • Interpretation and communication of results

Workshops tailored to specific topics or research groups are also available upon request.

When to contact us

Early consultation often leads to stronger studies and more successful outcomes. If you’re in the planning phase of a grant or project, reaching out now can help you design with precision and avoid common pitfalls.

To get the most from your initial session, please share:

  • A project abstract or summary
  • Key research questions
  • Relevant background materials or past studies

If your project is already in the data analysis or reporting phase, please also provide:

  • Study protocol (if available)
  • Sample datasheet
  • Complete dataset (preferred formats: SPSS, SAS, R, Minitab, Excel)
  • Any preliminary analyses you’ve conducted

How sessions work

Your first meeting will be with the SCC Director and may include a graduate assistant. This session is an opportunity to walk through your goals, questions, and challenges. Afterward, your project will be matched with the appropriate level of support:

  • Assigned to a trained graduate assistant
  • Handled directly by the Director
  • Referred to a faculty member with specialized expertise (may lead to a collaborative research partnership)

Follow-up sessions can take place in person, by phone, or via email.

Supporting research and grants

Including statistical consultation in your grant proposal can strengthen your submission. We assist with the development of statistical components and can serve as collaborators or co-investigators when involved from the proposal stage through project completion.

In projects that lead to publication, co-authorship is expected when:

  • The Director contributes significantly to statistical writing and interpretation
  • The Director is actively involved from inception to completion

Otherwise, acknowledging the SCC’s support in your publication or thesis is always appreciated.

How to get started

To schedule a consultation:

  1. Complete the Service Request Form
  2. Send your materials to scc@cmich.edu

Please schedule at least two business days in advance.

Services for external clients

We also offer consulting for organizations and individuals outside CMU on a fee-for-service basis. Submit a request through the online form, and we’ll be in touch with options and pricing.