General Sessions: Comprehensive Methods Program
Learn statistics while networking with other data nerds and having fun!
Dates
Every year we offer two General Sessions. The dates of our 2026 sessions are:
- First Session: Monday, June 8-Thursday, July 2, 2026
- Second Session: Monday, July 6-Friday, July 31, 2026
Customize a class schedule that fits your needs
Our General Sessions are a comprehensive methods training program comprising more than forty classes, from introductory statistics and regression analysis to specialized courses in a diverse array of the most advanced, cutting-edge methodological techniques. You get to customize your own class schedule based on your previous training and current research needs or future goals.
Types of classes
General Session classes are categorized as either a math and computing Lecture, or methods Course. Lectures provide a half-semester’s worth (20 instructional contact hours) of instruction in math like calculus, as well as computing software like R and Python. Courses feature a full semester’s worth (40 contact hours) of intensive instruction in specific quantitative methods and statistical techniques. In each General Session, the math and computing Lectures are held during week 1 of the Session, while the methods Courses are held during weeks 2-4. This way you’ll get a chance to learn computing skills and math knowledge before beginning your methodological training.
You can select up to 4 methods Courses, plus unlimited math and computing Lectures, per General Session.
Format/Modality
Our General Sessions are offered in dual-mode/hybrid format: In-person (on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor), livestream synchronous via Zoom, and asynchronous videos. All participants have extended online access to class lecture recordings and class materials through December 31.
Check back for our 2026 schedule!
Our 2026 General Session schedule will be posted in early February 2026. The following classes were offered in 2025 and are likely to be offered again in 2026. (Note that the button below takes you to our external 2025 registration website.)
Beyond the classroom
Get personalized feedback from our faculty
Instruction goes well beyond sitting in a classroom and taking notes. Course lectures are supplemented with labs, collaborative learning sessions, and faculty office hours, giving you plenty of opportunities for individual guidance and feedback on course materials and assignments, as well as your own research projects or dissertation. By the end of the summer, you’ll possess the skills and confidence you need to analyze your own data!
Network with scholars from around the world
Our General Sessions feature unparalleled networking opportunities with graduate students, postdocs, faculty, and researchers from 40+ countries and 30+ academic disciplines. From picnics and other social events to online special interest groups, we offer plenty of ways to connect with your fellow participants whether you’re attending in-person or online. Many of our participants tell us that they find a mentor, research collaborator, or co-author during their time at the Program!
Have fun while building connections that will last a lifetime
Countless past participants who have attended in-person have told us that the General Sessions are like a fun, laidback statistics camp, in which they get to spend day after day getting to know other data nerds. Join us, and develop friendships and professional connections that will last throughout your career!