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Applied Statistics PhD

Doctoral Program

The PhD in Applied Statistics addresses the growing demand in a wide range of fields for individuals with doctoral training in statistical theory and methodology who can apply statistical methods to solve business problems.

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Why Pursue a PhD in Applied Statistics

With constant technological advancement, the need for individuals who can design experiments and analyze large, complex data sets with the latest tools and technology continues to grow.

The demand for statisticians is high, especially for individuals trained to analyze big data in the areas of biomedical development, fraud detection, cyber security and defense-related issues. Job opportunities exist in a variety of industries including education, energy, finance, government, healthcare, insurance and manufacturing .  

Research Opportunities

Research is carried out while students are taking formal coursework and during the summers. As research assistants, students are involved with faculty in joint research activities and pursue their own research objectives under faculty supervision. These activities should lead to authoring or co-authoring papers presented at academic meetings and possibly submitted for publication by the time the student is ready for dissertation research. (To compete successfully in the job market, students should give high priority to presenting papers at meetings and publications while in the program.)

Careers in Higher Education and Research

The primary focus of a doctoral program is to prepare qualified candidates for careers in higher education, teaching, and research. Data predicts a strong demand for business school faculty for the next 15 years. Becoming a university faculty member is a gratifying experience that offers collaboration with students and other faculty, as well as fair compensation.

Outside of academia, Statisticians are in high demand in the growing biomedical field to develop methods for evaluating the efficacy and safety of new medications, surgeries, and other treatments. Additionally, Statisticians are conducting cutting-edge Bioinformatics research to assess topics such as gene therapy, genomics research, aging, and many other newly developed issues.

Register for an Info Session

Interested in learning more about UTSA’s Carlos Alvarez College of Business Applied Statistics PhD program? Register to attend an upcoming Information Session where you’ll have the opportunity to review application procedures, learn admissions requirements and ask questions.

• Admission Requirements

Application Deadlines

Funding opportunities, career options, admission & application requirements.

Applications are submitted through the UTSA Graduate Application . Please upload all required documents (listed below) on your UTSA Graduate Application. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure completion and submission of the application, a nonrefundable application fee, and all required supporting documents are on file with UTSA by the appropriate application deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to have their admission file completed as early as possible. All applications, required documents and letters of recommendation, if applicable, must be submitted by 5:00 PM U.S. Central Time on the day of the deadline. Deadlines are subject to change.

PhD’s are generally funded with our financial package which consists of an assistantship in the form of a research or teaching assistantship with paid tuition and fees for up to four (4) years.

For more information about graduate funding, click below.

UTSA prepares you for future careers that are in demand. The possible careers below is data pulled by a third-party tool called Emsi, which pulls information from sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, other government databases and more to give you regional and national career outlook related to this academic program.

School of Data Science

This program is part of the School of Data Science, also known as San Pedro I, and is housed in a cutting-edge facility dedicated to advancing the field of data science and fostering innovation in data-driven research and education. San Pedro I is a state-of-the-art facility specifically designed for hands-on learning and research under renowned faculty with expertise in data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and more. The School of Data Science is committed to providing a world-class education that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and career opportunities needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving data landscape.

Earning a Master's Degree

While in a doctoral program, a student may earn a master’s degree provided the following conditions are satisfied:

• A student must be admitted to candidacy.
• A student is eligible to receive a master’s degree upon completion of University-wide requirements and any additional degree requirements specific to the program.
• The Doctoral Studies Committee, Department Chair, and the Graduate Associate Dean of the College must recommend students for the degree.
• The student must apply for graduation by the published deadline the semester prior to awarding the doctoral degree.
• All required coursework in the doctoral program at the time of admission to candidacy must have been taken within the previous six years.
• If the master’s degree requires a thesis, the degree cannot be awarded on the basis of the doctoral qualifying examination.
• Students will not be approved for an additional master’s degree in the same field in which an individual has previously received a master’s degree.

Course Offerings & Schedule

The PhD in Applied Statistics is offered at UTSA’s Downtown Campus only and will admit full-time as well as part-time students.

Most courses are offered during the day and full-time students must enroll for nine hours in the fall semester, nine hours in the spring semester and three hours in the summer semester. We do not recommend working full-time if you plan to pursue the full-time program.

This program is does not offer a hybrid or fully online modality. All PhD programs in the college are in-residence and admitted students are expected to complete the program in-person.

PhD full-time students normally serve as either a teaching assistant or research assistant throughout the program. These experiences are an important part of the training and overall doctoral experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Admission process, what are the key factors on which admissions are based, and who decides.

Admission is based on

• Undergraduate transcripts (and graduate, if applicable)
• Standardized test scores
• Recommendations from former professors or employers who can speak to your ability to do doctoral-level work at UTSA

The admission committee is looking for evidence that you understand the specific nature of the program that you are applying for, that you can articulate your scholarly intentions that fit with the research interests of current faculty and that you are academically prepared to succeed in the program.

The most important part of your application is your statement of purpose. Although outstanding grades and test scores are important, you should construct a clear, persuasive, well-written statement of purpose in order to be competitive.

I am completing an undergraduate degree. Am I eligible to apply?

Yes; however, you must take additional leveling courses and complete any graduate coursework where your academic background is insufficient. The catalog states that the PhD requirement is “66 hours beyond the master’s degree.” Therefore, the time required to complete a PhD will most likely be much longer for a candidate without a master’s degree than for a candidate with a master’s degree.

When are admission decisions made?

Admission decisions are typically made in March; however, exceptionally qualified candidates are considered earlier.

Can I submit GMAT/GRE test scores after the application deadline?

No. All application documents must be received by the application deadline and incomplete applications will not be considered. You will be required to upload unofficial copies within the Graduate Admissions Application.

Can I wait to submit the foreign credential evaluation (ECE transcript) until after I am accepted to UTSA?

No. Foreign credential evaluations must be received by the application deadline for your application to be processed. Processing time may take up to three weeks, and students should plan accordingly with the admission deadlines of the programs for which they are applying.

Do you accept WES transcript evaluations?

All NACES accredited evaluators are accepted.

Program Expectations

What should i expect as a doctoral student.

Your role and the expectations will change as you progress in the program. Initially, your role will be as a student with the expectation that you attend and participate in doctoral seminars with other students. Expect to read a great deal and write papers.

To prepare to become a university professor, you will work closely with faculty members to learn how to teach. You will start as a teaching assistant and work toward teaching classes independently.

Conducting research is another area of focus where you will work closely with faculty on research projects. Under the direction of a faculty committee, you will conduct original research that will be the basis for your dissertation.

How long does this program take to complete?

Most students will need four years. Plan for at least two years to complete the coursework. Add another year to pass the comprehensive exams, develop a dissertation topic and defend your dissertation proposal. Dedicate your final year(s) to dissertation research.

Are PhD students required to teach?

Teaching is crucial to your academic career and job prospects. Every PhD student should gain teaching experience before graduating. Initially, students may work as research assistants for faculty members and may also assist in teaching various courses. For students who receive stipends, they will most likely teach an undergraduate course at the Carlos Alvarez College of Business during their program.

What are the research requirements of the PhD program?

The PhD program requires students to research while they complete formal coursework and during the summers. As research assistants, students work with faculty members in joint research activities and pursue their research objectives under the supervision of faculty members. The goal is to create papers to present at academic meetings and submit to research publications by the time the student is ready to begin their dissertation research. To be competitive in the academic job market, students should prioritize producing papers and publications while in the program.

As a PhD student, who will advise me?

Your program admission will identify an initial PhD advisor. However, as your interests and research agenda develop toward preparing a dissertation proposal, a different faculty member may emerge as the appropriate advisor for your dissertation research. Your initial advisor will help you assemble a program committee of faculty, who will advise you regarding your dissertation.

Can you waive my application fee?

You may request an application waiver if

• You are a McNair Scholar
• Active-duty military or a veteran of the US Armed Forces
• If you are an applicant who has attended a PhD Project Conference

Please complete the  Request to Waive Doctoral Application Fee  if you meet one or more of the above criteria.

Approved applicants will receive a single-use coupon code to enter into the payment field of the online application.

Can you waive the GMAT/GRE test score requirement?

We do not offer waivers for standardized test scores.

Is there a waiver for the TOEFL/IELTS exam requirement?

TOEFL scores may be waived for international students from countries where English is the official language or for non-citizens of the United States who have earned a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree or higher in the United States (or other countries where English is the official language) as indicated in the Graduate Catalog ( https://catalog.utsa.edu/policies/admission/graduate/internationalgraduatestudents/ ).

Graduate Advisor of Record

Min Wang, PhD

210-458-5381

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Applied Statistics and Research Methods Ph.D.

• Degrees and Programs
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Admissions Deadlines

• Fall Admissions: March 1
• Spring Admissions: Oct. 1

Admission Requirements

Applicants must apply to the Graduate School at the University of Northern Colorado before the program area reviews the applicant’s request for admission. Failure to submit all required materials will delay the evaluation and screening of your application.

Each applicant must:

• Possess a baccalaureate degree or a master’s degree from an Institutionally Accredited college or university or a comparable degree from a foreign institution.

Have a cumulative  GPA of 3.00 or better (on a 4.00 scale) for the most recent degree earned or current degree in progress.

If you are still completing your bachelor's or master's* degree at the time you apply, admission will be based on your current cumulative GPA and you will need to re-submit your official transcript (showing your conferred degree and final GPA) during your first semester. If your final GPA fell below 3.00,  you will be given additional   requirement s as defined by the academic program that must be met within one calendar year to remain enrolled at UNC.  

*The cumulative GPA of your master's degree will be used if 18 or more credit hours towards this degree has been completed.

Take the following steps to be considered for admission:

Step 1: Complete the Application

Complete the  online application .

• Answer the application questions.
• Request three (3) academic or professional letters of recommendation from those who can attest to your academic potential and abilities. You will be asked to supply information for your recommenders in the application.
• Domestic Students: $50 non-refundable application fee
• International Students: $50 non-refundable application fee
• The Graduate School is waiving application fees for all current UNC students and alumni!   (The waiver applies only to the UNC Graduate School application.)   Click for details .

Once you submit your application you will be assigned  a n Admissions  Portal , allowing you to upload supplemental items, as listed below, and track your application through the admissions process.

Step 2: Request Transcripts

Request one official transcript from any Institutionally Accredited college or university where a bachelor’s degree or higher was earned or is in progress (if you have earned multiple degrees, bachelor’s level or higher, an official transcript is required from each college or university where a degree was conferred). If you received a degree from UNC, you do not need to request a transcript from UNC. The Office of Admissions reserves the right to request that applicants provide official transcripts from other colleges or universities as needed. Applicants who have earned or are directly pursuing a higher degree from a  regionally accredited institution without receiving a bachelor’s degree (e.g., PharmD) may be eligible to apply to the Graduate School without the conferral of a bachelor’s degree.  Exceptions : If an applicant intends to use Veteran’s Education Benefits, an official transcript from all colleges or universities  attended  will be required in order to maintain compliance with Veteran’s Affairs policies.

Official transcripts from U.S. institutions should be sent via mail directly from the educational institution in an unopened, sealed envelope or through an electronically secure digital program from the issuing institution. Mailed transcripts should be sent to:

University of Northern Colorado Office of Admissions Campus Box 10 501 20th St Greeley, CO 80639 Electronic transcripts from U.S. institutions should be sent directly from the educational institution to:   [email protected] . The Office of Admissions does not accept email, scanned or PDF transcripts directly from applicants. All official transcripts, submitted as part of the application process, are retained by UNC and not returned to applicants or admitted students.

UNC retains submitted transcripts, from institutions other than UNC, for admitted students for up to five years after graduation or date of last attendance at UNC. Transcripts provided by applicants who were not admitted, denied admissions or did not complete their application are destroyed after one (1) year. The  Office of   Admissions will make every attempt to use previously submitted transcripts if they are within these timeframes. However, if the  Office of   Admissions  cannot locate previously submitted transcripts, the transcripts fall outside the timeframes listed above or they are considered illegible, applicants must provide new transcripts. Applicants with academic credentials from outside the U.S. will need to follow the   requirements for submission of foreign transcripts . Click on the Transcripts tab for information about international transcripts.

Step 3: Note About the GRE

This program does not require GRE scores.

Step 4: Supplemental Items

Log back into the Admissions Portal to submit the following:

• Statement of Career Goals

Once you apply to the UNC Graduate School and your application packet is complete, your application will be reviewed by the Graduate School and then sent to the faculty/program for an admission recommendation. The timing of the admission decision depends on each individual program’s deadline and review process.

International Applicants

International applicants (non-U.S. citizen/non-U.S. Permanent Resident) please refer to the   International Admissions Requirements   page for further information about submitting transcripts, English proficiency scores, passport copy and financial documentation.

For More Information   For more information about the admission process, please email the Office of Admissions at   [email protected] or call 970-351-2881.

STEM Designation 

This STEM-designated degree program meets the qualifications of students on an F-1 visa to apply for a 24-month extension of post-completion optional practical training (OPT). For more information regarding OPT, please visit the Department of Homeland Security’s Optional Practical Training for F-1 Students .

Please note: This designation does not apply to degree programs that are offered online.

Degree Overview

Credits:  64

Location:  Greeley

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Statistics & Data Science

Dietrich college of humanities and social sciences, ph.d. programs, our ph.d. programs immerse students in various cutting-edge research opportunities, where they develop innovative data analysis methods to tackle complex interdisciplinary problems and advance the underlying theoretical foundations driving those methods. .

Our Ph.D. programs in Statistics offer a dynamic blend of theoretical rigor and real-world application, equipping students with the skills to lead in academia, industry, and government.

Through immersive coursework, hands-on research, and collaboration with esteemed faculty, our students develop innovative statistical methodologies that push the boundaries of the field. Most students complete the program within 4-5 years, during which they build a strong foundation in both traditional and cutting-edge statistical practices. Our graduates leave our program prepared to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful advancements in their chosen careers.

Have questions about the Ph.D. program?

Contact us at [email protected] .

What sets our Ph.D. experience apart?

Innovative joint ph.d. programs.

Our four joint Ph.D. programs invite students to dive into diverse fields such as machine learning , public policy , neuroscience , and the dynamic intersection of engineering and policy —equipping students to lead in today’s most transformative interdisciplinary areas of research.

Collaborate with World Renowned Machine Learning Department

CMU is a trailblazer in  Machine Learning  and Computer Science. Through our joint Ph.D. program in Statistics and Machine Learning, students gain exclusive access to world-class ML research and renowned faculty, many of whom hold joint appointments in both fields. This unique blend of expertise offers an unparalleled opportunity to be at the forefront of cutting-edge advancements in Statistics and Machine Learning.

Interdisciplinary Research Opportunities

Our faculty are deeply engaged in pivotal, data-rich scientific collaborations across diverse fields such as genetics, physical sciences, neuroscience, astronomy, and the social sciences. This opens doors for students to explore pressing questions and access the data essential for uncovering meaningful insights.

Immersive Research Experience

In their second semester, students start working on their Advanced Data Analysis Project - a distinctive, year-long collaboration with faculty that goes beyond traditional thesis work. This immersive experience offers an immediate opportunity to dive into intensive research, fostering hands-on skills and innovative thinking.

Application Process

Program requirements, post-graduation destinations.

• Academic Programs
• Graduate Programs

Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy program in statistics prepares students for careers in university teaching and research or in government or industrial research. Students entering the program spend four semesters acquiring a basic background in probability, mathematical statistics, and applied statistics and take general examinations on these subjects. More specialized study follows with the thesis research, which usually begins in the third year. This research may be concentrated in any area of statistics or probability in which a faculty member is interested. Students also have the opportunity to gain experience in applied statistics through participation in statistical consulting . Completion of the Ph.D. program normally requires three to five years.

Requirements

Students who enter this program should have knowledge of probability equivalent to the content of STAT 51600 or STAT 51900 . A course in mathematical statistics is desirable, as is a course in regression.

Besides satisfying the general regulations of the Graduate School for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, the student must complete the following requirements:

Plan of Study

A tentative plan of study should be submitted electronically to the Graduate School by the end of the third session for doctoral students. An individual plan of study is crafted by the student and major professor with the approval of the student's doctoral advisory committee and the department.

Qualifying Examination

There are four Ph.D. qualifying examinations that cover material in methodology, probability, mathematical statistics, and computational statistics and are based on the core courses of the first year of graduate study in statistics.

Preliminary Examination

A student who has submitted an approved plan of study and passed the qualifying exams is required to take a preliminary exam. The purpose of the preliminary exam is to test the preparedness of the student for research. The preliminary exam is an oral exam that is administered by the student’s Ph.D. advisory committee. The student will then be recommended to the Graduate School for admissions to candidacy for the Ph.D degree.

Dissertation

A thesis must be submitted in final form, presenting new results of sufficient importance to merit publication. These results may be theoretical advances in probability or statistics, or methodological advances in the application of probability or statistics. The thesis must be accepted by the advisory committee. The student must present the contents of the thesis in an open examination.

Once a student is admitted to candidacy, the final examination marking completion of the doctoral program must be passed within five calendar years. Extensions of the limit may be granted by the graduate committee on petition by the student and his or her major professor. This may require reapproval of the plan of study and/or retaking of all or part of the Ph.D. degree qualifying examination.

Teaching Experience

Every doctoral candidate is required to teach at least quarter-time for one semester unless decided otherwise by the department.

Upon successful fulfillment of these requirements, the candidate will be recommended to the faculty to receive the Ph.D. degree.

Faculty Research Areas

If you are interested in applying to the Ph.D. Program, please visit How to Apply .

• How to Apply
• Faculty Research Groups
• Graduate Courses
• Career Development
• Degrees Offered
• Doctor of Philosophy Degree
• MS Statistics Degree in Applied Statistics
• MS Statistics Degree in Applied Statistics - Online Program
• MS Data Science in Finance Residential Program
• MS Statistics Degree in Mathematical Statistics or Probability
• Joint Statistics and Computer Science Degree
• Fifth Year Applied Statistics MS Degree
• Concurrent Degree
• Graduate Certificate in Applied Statistics
• Non-Degree Seeking Graduate Students

Purdue Department of Statistics, 150 N. University St, West Lafayette, IN 47907

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Ph.D. in Statistics

Our doctoral program in statistics gives future researchers preparation to teach and lead in academic and industry careers.

Program Description

Degree type.

approximately 5 years

The relatively new Ph.D. in Statistics strives to be an exemplar of graduate training in statistics. Students are exposed to cutting edge statistical methodology through the modern curriculum and have the opportunity to work with multiple faculty members to take a deeper dive into special topics, gain experience in working in interdisciplinary teams and learn research skills through flexible research electives. Graduates of our program are prepared to be leaders in statistics and machine learning in both academia and industry.

The Ph.D. in Statistics is expected to take approximately five years to complete, and students participate as full-time graduate students.  Some students are able to finish the program in four years, but all admitted students are guaranteed five years of financial support.  

Within our program, students learn from global leaders in statistics and data sciences and have:

20 credits of required courses in statistical theory and methods, computation, and applications

18 credits of research electives working with two or more faculty members, elective coursework (optional), and a guided reading course

Dissertation research

Coursework Timeline

Year 1: focus on core learning.

The first year consists of the core courses:

• SDS 384.2 Mathematical Statistics I
• SDS 383C Statistical Modeling I
• SDS 387 Linear Models
• SDS 384.11 Theoretical Statistics
• SDS 383D Statistical Modeling II
• SDS 386D Monte Carlo Methods

In addition to the core courses, students of the first year are expected to participate in SDS 190 Readings in Statistics. This class focuses on learning how to read scientific papers and how to grasp the main ideas, as well as on practicing presentations and getting familiar with important statistics literature.

At the end of the first year, students are expected to take a written preliminary exam. The examination has two purposes: to assess the student’s strengths and weaknesses and to determine whether the student should continue in the Ph.D. program. The exam covers the core material covered in the core courses and it consists of two parts: a 3-hour closed book in-class portion and a take-home applied statistics component. The in-class portion is scheduled at the end of the Spring Semester after final exams (usually late May). The take-home problem is distributed at the end of the in-class exam, with a due-time 24 hours later. 

Year 2: Transitioning from Student to Researcher

In the second year of the program, students take the following courses totaling 9 credit hours each semester:

• Required: SDS 190 Readings in Statistics (1 credit hour)
• Required: SDS 389/489 Research Elective* (3 or 4 credit hours) in which the student engages in independent research under the guidance of a member of the Statistics Graduate Studies Committee
• One or more elective courses selected from approved electives ; and/or
• One or more sections of SDS 289/389/489 Research Elective* (2 to 4 credit hours) in which the student engages in independent research with a member(s) of the Statistics Graduate Studies Committee OR guided readings/self-study in an area of statistics or machine learning. 
• Internship course (0 or 1 credit hour; for international students to obtain Curricular Practical Training; contact Graduate Coordinator for appropriate course options)
• GRS 097 Teaching Assistant Fundamentals or NSC 088L Introduction to Evidence-Based Teaching (0 credit hours; for TA and AI preparation)

* Research electives allow students to explore different advising possibilities by working for a semester with a particular professor. These projects can also serve as the beginning of a dissertation research path. No more than six credit hours of research electives can be taken with a single faculty member in a semester.

Year 3: Advance to Candidacy

Students are encouraged to attend conferences, give presentations, as well as to develop their dissertation research. At the end of the second year or during their third year, students are expected to present their plan of study for the dissertation in an Oral candidacy exam. During this exam, students should demonstrate their research proficiency to their Ph.D. committee members. Students who successfully complete the candidacy exam can apply for admission to candidacy for the Ph.D. once they have completed their required coursework and satisfied departmental requirements. The steps to advance to candidacy are:

• Discuss potential candidacy exam topics with advisor
• Propose Ph.D. committee: the proposed committee must follow the Graduate School and departmental regulations on committee membership for what will become the Ph.D. Dissertation Committee
•   Application for candidacy

Year 4+: Dissertation Completion and Defense

Students are encouraged to attend conferences, give presentations, as well as to develop their dissertation research. Moreover, they are expected to present part of their work in the framework of the department's Ph.D. poster session.

Students who are admitted to candidacy will be expected to complete and defend their Ph.D. thesis before their Ph.D. committee to be awarded the degree. The final examination, which is oral, is administered only after all coursework, research and dissertation requirements have been fulfilled. It is expected that students will be prepared to defend by the end of their fifth year in the doctoral program.

General Information and Expectations for All Ph.D. students

• 2023-24 Student Handbook
• Annual Review At the end of every spring semester, students in their second year and beyond are expected to fill out an annual review form distributed by the Graduate Program Administrator. 
• Seminar Series All students are expected to attend the SDS Seminar Series
• SDS 189R Course Description (when taken for internship)
• Internship Course Registration form
• Intel Corporation
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Attending Conferences 

Students are encouraged to attend conferences to share their work. All research-related travel while in student status require prior authorization.

• Request for Travel Authorization (both domestic and international travel)
• Request for Authorization for International Travel  

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Statistics involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data. Statisticians who are sought after in various disciplines are responsible for solving economic, political, ecological, medical, or social issues through significant data.

They may handle cancer research, analyze statistical data for the improvement of Internet search engines, and determine unemployment rates to aid the government in the allocation of resources.

Statisticians do valuable work because governments and industries rely heavily on statistics in their decision-making process.

Career opportunities also appear to be endless in this particular field. Because statistical modeling applies to various subject areas, statisticians are present in every industry.

An online Ph.D. in Statistics may open doors for career prospects if the interest lies in providing research specifically for the government or corporate decision-making process.

Students become adept at using the most updated, advanced strategies for the analysis of data in businesses, organizations, academics, and the government. They may also be trained for specialized areas in statistics, teach in the academy, or conduct research.

Ph.D. Stat students get sufficient training in applied and theoretical statistics. Students can choose to specialize based on their areas of interest and complete a dissertation.

This online program also has a goal of equipping graduates to either proceed with academic research in various universities and colleges or fill advanced research positions in government agencies and corporations.

Best Doctor of Statistics

University of pennsylvania wharton school.

Program Standouts:

The Wharton School’s Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics is designed to provide students with a foundation and ability to engage in both applied problems and cutting-edge theory.

A wide variety of fields such as finance, marketing, and public policy as well as biostatistics within the Medical School and computer science within the Engineering School come together at Wharton to give Ph.D. students in statistics diverse opportunities for applying statistical knowledge.

Campus Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Course Sample:

• Bayesian Statistical Theory and Methods
• Probability Theory
• Stochastic Processes
• Statistical Methodology

Degree Outcomes: Graduates of the Statistics PhD at The Wharton School often take positions in academia, government, financial services, and bio-pharmaceutical industries.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WHARTON SCHOOL’S STATISTICS PHD PROGRAM

Harvard university business school.

The Ph.D. in Statistics at Harvard University Business School is one of the top statistics degree programs in the country. Unique aspects of the program include integration and balanced training throughout teaching, research, and career development. Research is encouraged throughout the program in both theoretical and applied statistics.

Faculty members have been research leaders in a variety of topics including statistical inference, statistical computing, Monte-Carlo methods, causal inference, stochastic processes, and others.

All faculty members are also involved in personal research that applies to a wide variety of fields giving students rare opportunities for collaboration with some of the top statisticians in the country.

Campus Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

• Astrostatistics
• Parametric Modeling

Degree Outcomes: Some unique courses offered in the Ph.D. in Statistics degree program at Harvard prepare students in a special way for life after graduate school.

These courses are geared toward teaching the basic skills necessary to teach statistics, as well as statistics communication and generic skills necessary for problem-solving abilities, making Harvard Ph.D. in Statistics graduates some of the best equipped in the country for successfully pursuing careers.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN STATISTICS AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY

University of rochester.

The Doctorate in Statistics at the University of Rochester applies “statistics” broadly across specializations in biostatistics, probability, statistical theory and analysis, and interdisciplinary areas. Coursework in the program has three concentrations:

• Probability,
• and Data Analysis.

Students beginning the program can expect to spend time in their first three years taking formal courses. The rest of their time in the program will be spent on reading and research.

Campus Location: Rochester, New York

Admissions Requirements:

• Online Admissions Application
• Statement of Purpose
• Copy of Transcripts
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Official GRE Scores
• English Language Test Scores for International Students
• Statistical Inference I
• Biostatistical Methods I
• Introduction to Statistical Computing
• Ethics in Research

Degree Outcomes: According to the University of Rochester PhD in Statistics website, “prior to completion of the PhD, most students have some publications underway, including some work related to their dissertation research, possibly other methodological work done in collaboration with other members of the faculty, and often some applied papers with scientific researchers in other fields.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN STATISTICS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER

University of north carolina – chapel hill.

The Ph.D. Program in Statistics at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill grants students a broad base of information in applied statistics, theoretical statistics and probability, and other advanced topic courses.

The research that doctoral students pursue ranges from applied statistics to theoretical probability. Students are also involved in interdisciplinary research with faculty members and other students.

Campus Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Accreditation: Southern Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Colleges

• Application Fee
• Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• Standardized Test Scores
• Community Standards Questions
• Supplemental Program Information
• Applied Statistics
• Theoretical Statistics
• Probability

Degree Outcomes: According to the University of North Carolina website, “the breadth and depth of the program has served graduates well in their subsequent careers in academia, industry and government.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN STATISTICS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA – CHAPEL HILL

Stanford university.

The Ph.D. program in Statistics at Stanford University is one of the top statistics programs in the nation. The degree program consists of 135 units of study as well as a dissertation and oral examination.

First-year students participate in the core program and show acceptable performance in at least two core areas by the end of the first year. Breadth requirement capability by the end of the second and third year must be satisfied with the thesis proposal meeting successfully completed by the end of the third year.

A dissertation draft and passing grade on the university oral exam by the end of the fourth and fifth year will see the successful completion of the Ph.D. in Statistics.

Campus Location: Stanford, California

Accreditation: Western Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

• Application Form
• Biostatistics
• Transcripts/GPA
• TOEFL Scores
• Theory of Statistics
• Theory of Probability

Degree Outcomes: Stanford’s Career Center is available to all graduates from Stanford University. Graduates of the PhD in Statistics can expect to successfully enter a career in Intelligence, Research and Biostatistics.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL DEGREE IN STATISTICS AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY

University of connecticut.

The Department of Statistics at the University of Connecticut offers one of the top Doctorate in Statistics degree programs. Founded in 1962, the Department is one of the major statistics departments in New England.

The core faculty of 20 professors teach and research topics that cover nearly all major statistical specializations. The department has also received national and international recognition in graduate research and education.

Campus Location: Mansfield, Connecticut

Accreditation: The University of Connecticut is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, 3 Burlington Woods Drive, Suite 100, Burlington, MA 01803-4514

• Admissions Application
• Mathematical Statistics
• Design of Experiments

Degree Outcomes: Graduates with a Doctoral degree in Statistics from the University of Connecticut have found “excellent positions in academics, government, and industry.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF STATISTICS DEGREE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT

University of washington.

The University of Washington’s Department of Statistics has a high reputation for excellence. Established in 1979, the Department includes a broad area of study specialties and dozens of topics including both the theory and methodology of statistics.

The University of Washington Statistics Department also has close contact and joint research interaction with many local departments and companies.

Campus Location: Tacoma, WA

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

• Resume/Vitae
• Personal Statement
• Optional Official GRE Scores
• Statistical Methods for Survival Data
• Data Analysis and Reporting
• Advanced Theory of Statistical Inference

Degree Outcomes: Graduates with a Doctoral Degree in Statistics from the University of Washington show a high level of satisfaction not only with their experience at UW but with the ease of entering the Statistics Job Market.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL DEGREE IN STATISTICS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Cornell university.

Studying in the Ph.D. in Statistics degree program at Cornell University grants students a diverse set of skills. These include the ability to collaborate effectively with researchers, as well as formulate, compute, and implement novel statistical models and methods.

Cornell’s Ph.D. alumni, according to the school’s website, “have gone on to high-profile positions in all of academia, industry, and government.”

Campus Location: Ithaca, NY

• College Transcripts
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Strong Performance in Mathematics
• Linear Models
• Asymptomatic Statistics

Degree Outcomes: The Ph.D. in Statistics at Cornell University is designed to prepare students for careers in teaching and research in industry or government or at the University level.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN STATISTICS AND DATA SCIENCE AT CORNELL UNIVERSITY

Columbia university.

With a history of over 250 years of academic excellence and 87 Nobel Prize Winners, graduate students in the Statistics Department can expect to acquire a degree of high academic standing.

The Ph.D. in Statistics at Columbia is designed to train students in theoretical statistics, applied statistics, and probability. The program is also geared toward collaborative interdisciplinary research.

Campus Location: New York, NY

• Background in linear algebra and real analysis
• Coursework in statistics and probability
• Familiarity with computing and programming is desirable
• Quantitative training
• Background and experience in other scientific disciplines
• Completed Application
• Statistical Computing
• Probability Theory I-III

Degree Outcomes: According to the Columbia University Graduate Student Handbook, “The Ph.D. program prepares students for research careers in probability and statistics in both academia and industry.”

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN STATISTICS AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

University of michigan.

The Ph.D. in Statistics at the University of Michigan is diverse and flexible. The program allows students to pursue a wide range of studies from interdisciplinary research to statistical methodology and probability theory.

Students in the Ph.D. program begin the program by taking foundational courses, transition into research, and culminate their studies with the most important component of the program – the dissertation.

Campus Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

• Recommender Names and Email Addresses
• Resume or CV

5 Core PHD Study Areas:

• Statistical Theory

Degree Outcomes: The flexibility and diversity of the study focus areas in the PhD program at the University of Michigan grant graduates the opportunity to seek specialized career options that correspond to their interests.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN STATISTICS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

Iowa state university.

Program Standouts: The Ph.D. program in Statistics at Iowa State University includes four courses in one of four concentration areas:

• biostatistics,
• probability/mathematical statistics,
• data science,
• or actuarial science/financial mathematics.

Coursework in seminars or other departments can include specializations such as using electronic digital computing equipment or learning non-English language skills.

Campus Location: Ames, Iowa

• Online Application
• Records/Transcripts
• Statistical Consulting
• Reading in Statistics
• Statistical Inference

Degree Outcomes: As part of a top Statistics Program in the country, Iowa State’s Ph.D. in Statistics will award graduates the opportunity to successfully pursue a degree in their specialized area of statistics, either in research or education.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PH.D. IN STATISTICS AT IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

Why should i consider taking an online ph.d. in statistics ( ph.d. stat ) program.

There are numerous reasons to earn an online Ph.D. Stat degree. First and foremost, it can aid the student in career advancement. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are excellent opportunities for career advancement for people with master’s or doctoral degrees.

An online Ph.D. may also lead to greater freedom, as statisticians with a post-graduate degree can design their work independently. A doctoral degree in Statistics is considered an exciting scholastic challenge that allows students to take on various research opportunities while connecting with fellow experts. It is also ideal for statisticians seeking to expand their knowledge through research and teaching fellowships continuously.

There may be numerous challenges to take into consideration when earning a Ph.D. Stat degrees, especially with work or family obligations, get in the way of pursuing a post-graduate degree.

The entire program takes about four to five years to complete. While the prospect offers a tremendous opportunity, Ph.D. in Statistics degrees that are earned online are quite uncommon.

What are the requirements for admission to an online Ph.D. Statistics program ?

The prerequisites for this particular degree program vary based on the academic institution. Commonly, Ph.D. Stat programs require many semesters of linear algebra, calculus, and mathematical statistics classes. Many of the courses also expose students to computer programming and related subjects.

In general, students pursuing an online Ph.D. Statistics degree first needs to earn a master’s degree in the fields of mathematics or computer science. Students who lack the requirements before entering this online Ph.D. program can take advantage of the remedial prerequisite courses offered every summer.

However, some remedial courses in online Ph.D. Stat programs require a high GRE score. Students must ace comprehensive examinations involving methods and theories relating to the discipline. Other programs require students to have earned ample experience in the use of statistical packages such as SPSS or SAS before being accepted into graduate school.

Application requirements may differ from one program to another beyond the typical undergraduate and graduate transcripts. Usually, doctorate candidates for Statistics need to meet a minimum GPA of at least 3.0 and should have earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or any related field.

What courses can be taken in an online Ph.D. Stat program?

An online Ph.D. Stat’s course curriculum does not wander far from that of a traditional, on-campus program. The types of courses to be completed, however, depend on the student’s area of specialization and may differ based on the graduate school and the program structure.

There is typically a core curriculum with additional courses and examinations. A consulting seminar or project may also be required along with a dissertation or, in some cases, a comprehensive exam.

The coursework usually includes the following:

• Statistical Analysis
• Asymptotics
• Bootstrapping
• Decision theory
• Multivariate analysis
• Sequential analysis
• Time series
• Stochastic processes and models
• Bayesian statistics
• Statistical consulting
• Probability theory
• Theoretical statistics
• Mathematical statistics
• Applied statistics
• Mathematics of finance
• Statistical Methods in Bioinformatics
• Applied Algebra
• Statistical Genetics

What are the career pathways, employment, and salary rates for a Ph.D. Stat degree holder?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that, with a 30% increase between 2022 to 2032, the job growth rate for statisticians is higher than the median rate for all other occupations.

Doctorate holders with experience in fields such as computer science, engineering, or biology are most likely to land advanced work positions. Government agencies, commercial businesses, and pharmaceutical companies all have a high demand for statisticians.

The federal government, meanwhile, employed approximately 15% of statisticians in the United States in 2014 and at least 20% in 2010. Other top hiring sectors include scientific and development services at 16%, colleges, universities, and professional schools at 11%, the state government at 11%, and insurance carriers at 7%. In May 2022, it was recorded that the median annual wage for statisticians was $112,110 .

What schools offer a Ph.D. Stat program?

Ph.D. Stat programs are rarely offered as a fully 100% online degree. It is, however, delivered in hybrid format by the country’s top universities, including:

• University of Pennsylvania Wharton,  
• Harvard University Business School ,
• University of Rochester ,
• University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill,
• Stanford University .

The following, on the other hand, are some of the best schools that offer Ph.D. in Statistics programs in on-campus or brick-and-mortar format only:

• University of Connecticut ,
• University of Washington ,
• Cornell University ,
• Columbia University ,
• University of Michigan,
• Iowa State University .

Earning a Ph.D. Stat online may save you time and allow greater access to significant resources. Along with the increased growth of data collection, the growing importance of cybersecurity, and the rising need for new software, a significant number of well-experienced statisticians has become more in demand.

Is earning a Doctor of Statistics degree worth my time and expense?

The answer to this question will depend on your circumstances and goals. A Doctor of Statistics degree is a highly specialized degree that can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in the field of statistics.

It can also provide a valuable foundation for those pursuing a career in data science or research. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if the time and expense associated with earning a Doctor of Statistics degree are worth it for your own circumstances.

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About our online statistics programs section  .

The Department of Statistics takes advantage of the internet for the purposes of creatively delivering course content as well as to provide a mechanism for interaction between faculty and students. Faculty employ a range of different approaches to learning online.

Through  Penn State's World Campus , the Department of Statistics offers two graduate programs. Here is Dr. Mosuk Chow to talk a bit about these programs.

Graduate Certificate in Applied Statistics Section  

This certificate program is designed to improve your research and data-analysis expertise and refine and maximize your analytical talents. The skills you can learn in this program can be applied across the business, education, health, science, governmental, and technology fields.

This 12-credit online graduate certificate in applied statistics consists of required and elective mucourses that can deepen your knowledge of statistical analysis and provide you with experience with a variety of statistical software packages, a blend of practical and theoretical data-analysis skills as well as sophisticated tools and knowledge to handle and analyze data.

Master of Applied Statistics Section  

The Master of Applied Statistics (MAS) degree program is designed for professionals who handle data in their current positions, and are interested in studying a wide range of statistical Sigmaapplication areas while developing a skill set that is now in great demand. Employment opportunities exist for applied statisticians in business, industry, government, and in educational and research organizations.

The master of applied statistics degree program is designed to provide training focused on developing data analysis skills, exploring all core areas of applied statistics (DOE, ANOVA, Analysis of Discrete Data, MANOVA, and many more) without going too deeply into the mathematical statistics foundations.

Use the links below to review course descriptions and requirements. You will receive an official syllabus for the course when it opens at the beginning of the semester. For the course catalog of offerings by semester, application and other information related to this program, please visit the University Bulletin or LionPATH .

For students just beginning the Graduate Certificate or the Master in Applied Statistics program, STAT 500 then STAT 501 would be the recommended courses to begin your study.

Undergraduate

There are many topics involved in applying statistical methods and analyses. But how do they all go together? One of the over-arching challenges of our MAS program is to help build your own network of synergistic understanding!  Below you should find a copy of a concept map that tie together the concepts and skills associated with our MAS program. (You may need to tell your browser not to block this content from Prezi!)

Use the arrows at the bottom, double-click or drag around the image in order to explore our concept map.

What would your concept map look like?