Advancements in computing, data science, and analytics have created a demand for statistics professionals. More organizations are looking for professionals who can collect and interpret data to help improve business practices and daily life. In turn, more students and professionals are looking for the best schools for statistics to facilitate entry into this innovative career path.
The best statistics schools offer strong curricula, high graduation rates, student resources, and experienced faculty, as well as extensive statistics degree offerings. However, finding the best statistics universities isn’t always easy. For this reason, Career Karma has compiled some of the best statistics colleges and universities in the country to help you find the best choice.
Best Statistics College and University Rankings: Top 10 Statistics Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown University | RI | In-person | #14 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | PA | In-person | #25 |
| Duke University | NC | Online, in-person | #9 |
| Harvard University | MA | Online, in-person | #2 |
| Johns Hopkins University | MD | In-person | #9 |
| Northwestern University | IL | Online, in-person | #9 |
| Rice University | TX | In-person | #17 |
| Stanford University | CA | Online, in-person, hybrid | #6 |
| University of Chicago | IL | In-person | #6 |
| University of Pennsylvania | PA | In-person | #8 |
Statistics School Rankings: Best Statistics Colleges and Universities
The statistics school rankings are based on several factors, including graduation rates, acceptance rates, student population, and overall national rankings. Schools nationwide must also have extensive degree programs geared towards statistics majors, from bachelor’s to doctorate programs. Read on to learn more about the statistics schools listed in the table above.
Brown University is a non-profit research university in Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1764, it was the first Ivy League institution to admit students from different religious backgrounds. Brown University offers 85 undergraduate programs, 84 graduate programs, and over 2,000 courses. Its total student enrollment is 9,948. Furthermore, Brown University has plenty of choice for statistics degree programs.
Brown University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 8%
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Degree Offered: Bachelor’s to PHD
- US News Ranking: #14
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #64
Best Brown University Statistics Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Statistics. This program teaches basic statistical concepts and methodologies that instill analytical thinking and the application of statistical research methods. This 13-credit program consists of foundational courses in mathematics, computing, and statistical thinking, as well as four core courses and a capstone project.
- Master of Science in Biostatistics. This four-year master’s program offers advanced training for statistics students pursuing careers in clinical medicine, public health, and biological science. Students study applied statistics, generalized linear models, and clinical trials methodology over ten courses and a final thesis or project.
- Master of Arts in Biostatistics. Unlike the MS, the MA in Biostatistics takes five years for students to complete. The curriculum consists of eight courses and an additional online public health course.
- PhD in Biostatistics. The PhD program at the Department of Biostatics allows statistics students to pursue an in-depth research project in theory, methodology, and application of statistics to public health problems. The program requires 16 to 24 credits depending on students’ admission qualifications.
Brown University Statistics Key Takeaway
Brown University is among the most renowned universities for statistics students because of its innovative approach to teaching and prioritization of individualized learning experiences.
Carnegie Mellon University is a four-year, non-profit university known for its research facilities and outstanding academic performance. Carnegie Mellon hosts around 14,000 students across its seven schools and colleges and its curriculum includes 80 majors, 90 minors, and 87 graduate programs.
Carnegie Mellon University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degree Offered: Bachelor’s to PHD
- US News Ranking: #25
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #28
Best Carnegie Mellon University Statistics Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Statistics. This program focuses on the practice and theory of statistics. It is structured to help statistics students transition into graduate studies across different areas like history, psychology, biological science, and business information. Students must complete between 146 and 185 credit hours.
- Master of Statistical Practice. Carnegie Mellon University’s career-focused degree program consists of one year or two semesters of study. It focuses on improving students’ statistical skills, including data analysis, statistical computing, and professional skills.
- PhD in Statistics. This PhD program allows statistics students to explore many teaching and research opportunities. The program consists of two years of coursework, a doctoral thesis requirement, and a year of dissertation research. The curriculum covers intermediate statistics, statistical methods in machine learning, and regression analysis.
Carnegie Mellon University Statistics Key Takeaway
Carnegie Mellon’s Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences employs a world-class faculty renowned for their contributions to fields like neuroscience, social sciences, and astronomy.
Duke University is a private Christian university established in 1838 in Durham, North Carolina. About 16,7080 students are currently enrolled, and Duke’s curriculum includes 53 majors, 52 minors, 23 certificates, and over 70 graduate programs.
Duke University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 8%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Degree Offered: Certificate to PHD
- US News Ranking: #9
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #23
Best Duke University Statistics Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Statistical Science. This BS program features a concentration in mathematical statistics or data science and an additional elective in an applied field. Students learn the science of statistical modeling, analysis, and modern statistical reasoning across nine statistics courses and five prerequisite courses.
- Minor in Statistical Science. A minor in Statistical Science is perfect for students who want to learn more about statistics while pursuing other majors. A minor covers crucial topics like data mining, Bayesian and modern statistics, case studies, and statistical computing.
- Master of Science in Statistical Science. This two-year program offers a comprehensive education in statistical theory, computation, and application of skills. It is ideal for statistics students seeking to work in business, government, and industry.
- PhD in Statistical Science. This PhD program takes at least three years and includes core courses, qualifying exams, assistantships, and a dissertation. Students explore modern themes in statistics like stochastic modeling and big data analytics and learn from a faculty of world-renowned experts in Bayesian statistics.
Duke University Statistics Key Takeaway
Duke University is one of the best universities for statistics students looking to research Bayesian statistics and modern statistical science applications.
Harvard University was founded in 1636, making it one of the oldest universities in the United States as well as one of the leading Ivy League schools. Harvard University prides itself on a student population of 30,391, world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and over 90 graduate programs and 58 undergraduate programs.
Harvard University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 5%
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Degree Offered: Bachelor’s to PHD
- US News Ranking: #2
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #2
Best Harvard University Statistics Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Statistics. This BA in Statistics is offered through four tracks. These are data science, quantitative finance, core statistical principles and methods, and bioinformatics and computational biology. Students must complete at least 64 credits in residency, receive higher than a C in 84 credits, and earn a minimum of 128 credits.
- Master of Arts in Statistics. This AM program at Harvard is only open to Harvard undergraduates and PhD students. Students must complete at least one year of full-time residence, eight for-credit courses, and average at least a B across all courses.
- PhD in Statistics. The PhD program focuses on research in theoretical statistics and application of knowledge. Coursework requirements include an extensive qualifying exam, 16 four-credit courses, a research presentation, and a dissertation defense. PhD students must participate in a teaching fellowship or research assistantship in their second year.
Harvard University Statistics Key Takeaway
Harvard University is one of the most distinguished universities, attracting the best students and faculty from around the world. Its Department of Statistics is dedicated to advancing statistics students' analytical thinking through research and modern statistical techniques. Harvard is one of the best schools for statistics degrees in the US.
Johns Hopkins University is a private, non-profit university founded in 1876 as the first research university in the United States. Johns Hopkins’s student population is about 28,890 and the school includes nine academic divisions and offers 52 majors, 42 minors, and 60 graduate programs across its four campuses.
Johns Hopkins University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degree Offered: Certificate to PHD
- US News Ranking: #9
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #13
Best Johns Hopkins University Statistics Programs
- Applied Mathematics and Statistics Minor. This Mathematics and Statistics Minor accommodates statistics students majoring in other disciplines at JHU’s School of Engineering and the School of Arts and Sciences. Students must earn at least 18 credits in various courses, including courses on mathematical modeling and applied mathematics.
- Bachelor’s in Applied Mathematics and Statistics. Undergraduates pursuing this BA or BS in mathematical statistics study calculus, linear algebra, computer languages and programming, probability, and other relevant subjects. It requires a minimum of 120 to 130 credit hours.
- Master of Science in Engineering in Applied Mathematics and Statistics. This degree requires at least two semesters of residence, eight one-semester courses approved by the faculty advisor, and a 3.0 GPA. Students choose between taking two additional courses or submitting a research report on a specified project.
- Master of Science in Engineering in Financial Mathematics. JHU’s master’s program provides a foundation in applied mathematics across three semesters of full-time studies. It includes two tracks. The Legacy Track requires 36 credits and the Area of Focus Track requires 41 credits. Students must also maintain a 3.0 GPA in all courses.
- PhD in Applied Mathematics and Statistics. JHU's PhD program gives graduate students expertise in applied statistics. Students must complete several introductory courses and exams. In addition to the final research dissertation, students must complete 12 one-semester courses of graduate-level study.
Johns Hopkins University Statistics Key Takeaway
Johns Hopkins is known for its contribution to biomedical engineering, public health, and computer and information sciences, and the Whiting School of Engineering offers state-of-the-art research facilities.
Northwestern University is a private research university founded in 1851 in Evanston, Illinois. It offers 90 school-based research centers, over 175 undergraduate and graduate programs, and a student body of around 21,000.
Northwestern University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degree Offered: Certificate to PHD
- US News Ranking: #9
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #24
Best Northwestern University Statistics Programs
- Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics. This bachelor’s program is ideal for statistics students interested in applying their skills to the fields of research, medicine, law, finance, and science. Students must have a background in calculus and linear algebra to apply. The program consists of 45 credits across nine 200 and 300-level courses.
- Minor in Statistics. A minor in Statistics requires at least six courses covering statistical methods, applied statistics, regression analysis, applied time series modeling and forecasting, and basic elements of probability. It is perfect for students looking to learn statistics fundamentals without completing the major.
- Master of Science in Statistics. This master’s program provides comprehensive training in statistical theory and methodology, practical applications of statistics, research, and collaborative learning. It is primarily a career-focused program that prepares statistics students for continued education in a related field.
- PhD in Statistics. This PhD program also focuses on statistical theory and methodology but emphasizes research. PhD students complete extensive coursework, fulfill candidacy requirements, and submit a well-researched dissertation. In addition, students must complete two years of residence and attend all departmental seminars.
Northwestern University Statistics Key Takeaway
Northwestern University provides a collaborative learning environment and a faculty that is well-versed in statistical theory, application of statistics, and various data science fields.
Rice University is a private research university in Houston, Texas founded in 1912. Its student population is approximately 7,643, and the curriculum at Rice University comprises over 50 undergraduate degrees and 44 graduate programs.
Rice University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Degree Offered: Bachelor’s to PHD
- US News Ranking: #17
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #136
Best Rice University Statistics Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Statistics. This BS in Statistics program focuses on theory in probability and statistical inference, evaluating statistical models, and computing for data science and data analysis. Students must complete a minimum of 36 courses. The minimum credit requirement is 120.
- Bachelor of Arts in Statistics. This BA has similar requirements as a BS but consists of 32 courses. It is a flexible degree geared towards applied and theoretical training, whereas the BS is oriented towards research opportunities.
- Minor in Statistics. A minor in Statistics offers two specialization tracks that give statistics students foundational knowledge of probability, statistical computing, inference, and modeling. This minor comprises 19 to 20 credit hours across a minimum of 13 courses.
- Minor in Financial Computation and Modeling. This minor covers statistical and computational techniques, financial databases, quantitative modeling, and basic concepts of economic theory. Students must complete 11 courses and earn at least 19 credit hours to qualify for a minor in Financial Computation and Modeling.
- Professional Master’s in Statistics. This MStat program prepares students to be professional statisticians. Students select a specialization such as applied statistics for industry, environmental statistics, bioinformatics, or data mining. Students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, including 24 credit hours in residence.
- PhD in Statistics. The PhD program at Rice University covers different applied and theoretical statistics topics, including social science, medicine, natural and biological science, business, and engineering. This doctoral program requires 90 credits and three years of full-time studies for undergraduates or two years for graduate students.
Rice University Statistics Key Takeaway
The faculty at Rice University’s Department of Statistics have made innovative contributions to such subfields of statistical theory and methods as applied probability, machine learning, and modeling of contagious diseases.
Stanford University was founded in 1885 and has gone on to become one of California’s most distinguished universities for private research. Stanford has a student population of 17,246 undergraduate and graduate students and the institution offers 69 undergraduate degrees and 88 graduate programs across its eight schools.
Stanford University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 5%
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Degree Offered: Certificate to PHD
- US News Ranking: #6
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #4
Best Stanford University Statistics Programs
- Statistics Minor. This minor primarily complements majors in social and natural sciences. Students must complete a minimum of six courses, earn at least 19 credits, and maintain a 2.75 GPA in their major to pursue this minor.
- Master of Science in Statistics. This master's program normally takes 15 to 18 months and requires 45 units from different courses. The curriculum consists of nine core statistics courses, math and programming courses, and electives. The accelerated option allows students to complete the master's program in nine months.
- PhD in Statistics. Students must complete the master's program to qualify for a PhD. Additionally, all first-year PhD in Statistics students must pass a core program before completing the qualifying exams, thesis preparation and presentation, and dissertation draft. The program consists of a minimum of 135 credits over five years.
- PhD Minor in Statistics. This PhD Minor in Statistics allows students to reap some benefits of the full program in less than five years. It requires 30 credits, 20 of which must be from 300-level or above courses completed at Stanford University. The department head must also approve students’ course selection before commencement.
Stanford University Statistics Key Takeaway
Stanford University is a prestigious, high-ranking university that offers outstanding career opportunities for statistics students and plenty of educational pathways to help students find the right concentration in statistics.
Founded in 1890, the University of Chicago is best known for its world-class research benefits. The university’s total enrollment is over 18,000, and the academic catalog comprises over 91 undergraduate degrees and 68 graduate programs.
University of Chicago Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Degree Offered: Certificate to PHD
- US News Ranking: #6
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #10
Best University of Chicago Statistics Programs
- Bachelor's Degree in Statistics. The University of Chicago offers a BA and BS in Statistics, allowing students to explore the modern science of statistics and its application to different industries. The Department of Statistics at UChicago requires 1,400 credits for a BA and 1,800 for a BS.
- Master of Science in Statistics. This program combines professional training and continuing education. Graduate students in the MS program learn applied and theoretical statistics as well as professional skills over two years. Students must submit a master’s paper by the end of the second-year summer.
- PhD in Statistics. This PhD program consists of cutting-edge research and four core courses on subjects like applied statistics, mathematical statistics, probability, computational mathematics, and machine learning. The program takes at least four to five years to complete.
University of Chicago Statistics Key Takeaway
The Department of Statistics at UChicago offers a thorough education in the application of statistics applications to machine learning, data science, and computational and applied mathematics.
Founded in 1740, The University of Pennsylvania is one of the oldest Ivy League universities in the United States. Its student population is 26,675 across 12 highly-rated schools, and students select their fields of study from a list of over 100 undergraduate programs and 120 graduate programs.
University of Pennsylvania Overview
- School Type: Private
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Degree Offered: Certificate to PHD
- US News Ranking: #8
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #13
Best University of Pennsylvania Statistics Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Statistics. This BS in Statistics requires 37 credits across general, elective, and core classes. Students must also select one math course for their final course units. Subjects include statistical computing with R, applied probability, data analytics, causal inference, and stochastic methods.
- MBA in Statistics. MBA students hone their skills and gain experience in drawing inferences and conclusions from different data types. The core classes and four electives can be completed within two years for a total of 19 credits.
- PhD in Statistics. This PhD program covers 13 units and focuses on the application of statistics skills and advanced theory to solve problems. Research areas include Bayesian inference, bioinformatics, information theory, model selection, and time series analysis.
University of Pennsylvania Statistics Key Takeaway
UPenn is one of the oldest and most distinguished universities in the US and its statistics programs offer high-quality education. Furthermore, the University of Pennsylvania has an excellent honors program.
The Best Schools for Statistics: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
The best schools for statistics accommodate students at different academic levels, from beginners to experts. Types of degrees in statistics include a community college certificate, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and PhD. Below is an in-depth overview of various university programs and college degrees in statistics.
Statistics community college certificates are only available at community colleges and take less than two years to complete. These courses cover basic foundational statistics topics like probability, population, and hypothesis testing. In addition, certificates are more affordable than undergraduate or graduate degrees and are accessible to all applicants.
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Statistics associate degrees are available at community colleges and several four-year institutions. This degree takes two years to complete and tackles foundation-level subjects. You'll learn to collect, analyze, and interpret data using beginner-friendly statistical methods.
A statistics bachelor’s degree is a four-year program that requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. A bachelor’s degree is the most pursued degree because of its popularity in the job market. Statistics students at the undergraduate level learn theoretical and practical knowledge and skills in calculus, mathematical statistics, statistical methods, and theory.
Master’s degrees have quickly become the most in-demand degree for employers and professionals. A statistics master's program is a graduate-level program that takes approximately two years and covers advanced statistics topics. However, graduate degree programs are expensive and average $19,792 per year according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Students can select between a Master of Science and Master of Arts program. Each program generally covers probability theory, advanced calculus, linear models, computation, and statistical methods. Most universities require graduate students to complete a minimum of 30 credits to earn a master's degree.
Statistics graduate programs are shorter academic programs that allow you to gain graduate-level knowledge without completing a full degree. Instead, you will take courses related to specific statistics topics that are geared towards your career goals.
Graduate certificates offer advanced studies topics like statistical methods, theory of probability, applied statistics, and analysis of variance. The certificates take a year or less to complete and the coursework consists of 12 to 24 credits.
A doctorate degree is the highest-level and most respected statistics degree. It takes three to six years to complete and typically ends with a final dissertation. PhD students also study theoretical statistics and application of knowledge. Doctoral study in statistics is perfect for students and professionals who wish to delve into research and education careers.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Statistics Schools: Other Statistics University Rankings
The best statistics schools offer high acceptance rates, national rankings, and graduation rates. They also offer comprehensive statistics curricula and reliable student resources, in addition to flexibility and varied learning formats. Below are various statistics university rankings based on format and education level.
Best Online Statistics Schools
- Columbia University. Columbia University has an extensive offering of online and hybrid learning format undergraduate and graduate courses. In addition, the Department of Statistics at Columbia maintains small class sizes both online and in-person to facilitate interactive learning. Online programs are readily accessible to international students.
- Oklahoma State University. Oklahoma State University is a research university founded in 1890. OSU is the only public school in Oklahoma with a thriving statistics department, which makes it an ideal school for statistics students living in the state.
- Texas A&M University. Texas A&M is one of the first flagship institutions in Texas and one of the best public universities for research. In addition, TA&MU has a dedicated online department, ensuring that distance learners can receive the same high-quality education, even for graduate programs such as an online master’s degree.
Best Community Colleges for Statistics
- Bunker Hill Community College. BHCC is a two-year college in Boston. It is known for its diverse student body and extensive academic offerings. For example, statistics students can study topics like data analytics, data management, and math.
- Miami Dade College. MDC is one of the leading community colleges in Miami. They offer a wide range of certificate, associate, and bachelor’s programs. Students can study mathematics, economics, business intelligence, and data analytics.
- Montgomery College. Montgomery College is a public community college in Maryland. Its Department of Data Science, Mathematics, and Statistics offer statistics degree programs and certificates. Montgomery College employs over 500 full-time faculty to help students navigate their studies.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Statistics
- Brown University. Brown University is a prestigious Ivy League school and one of the best institutions for research. Students learn from a world-class faculty and interact with the best statistics undergraduate students, which provides excellent networking opportunities for students.
- Carnegie Mellon University. US News & World Report ranks Carnegie Mellon second in analytics programs, which makes it perfect for various statistics degree programs.
- Duke University. The Department of Statistical Science at Duke University in North Carolina invests in data and computational innovation through research and high-quality learning.
Best Graduate Schools for Statistics
- Harvard University. Harvard University is one of the top universities worldwide, and pursuing your master’s or PhD at Harvard is a good career investment.
- Stanford University. Like Harvard, an education from Stanford is highly respected in the job market. Stanford’s statistics degree programs are ranked first in the nation by the US News and World Report.
- The University of California-Berkeley. UC Berkeley is one of the best public schools for statistics. In addition to their statistics degree programs, the UC Berkeley Career Center equips students in all disciplines with the tools to succeed as professionals.
Best Statistics Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Dual Master’s Program. This program combines a Master of Arts and PhD in Statistics. Michigan-Ann Arbor graduate students can complete an MA program while working towards a PhD that utilizes a significant amount of statistics fundamentals in their research.
- The University of Missouri | Dual Master of Arts in Statistics and Economics. This program’s education requirements are 48 credit hours of required courses, comprising 18 classes from the economic department, 18 from the statistics department, and a thesis or writing project.
- The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | Dual Degree Program in Statistics and Applied Statistics. Students in this program complete a BS in Statistics and an MS in Applied Statistics within five years to earn dual majors. Students must submit a graduate project in applied statistics in addition to maintaining a 3.0 GPA in all graduate courses.
Best Schools With Accelerated Statistics Programs
- The University of Arizona | Accelerated Master’s in Statistics and Data Science. The Accelerated Master’s program at University of Arizona offers statistics degree programs that lead to a master’s or PhD. Students choose between a regular track or statistical informatics track and complete an 18-unit graduate certificate.
- The University of Florida | Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Statistics. This program allows you to earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees at an accelerated pace. Generally, up to 15 semester hours of approved graduate courses will be used as dual credit for both degrees. However, you must earn a B or above in these courses.
- The University of Missouri | Accelerated Master of Arts in Statistics. Undergraduate students enroll in 12 hours of approved coursework that will count towards their undergraduate and master’s program. It takes five years, and the fourth year of an undergraduate degree also counts as the first year of a master’s degree.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Statistics Worth It?
Yes, it is worth going to graduate school for statistics. Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree and many statistics professionals have an undergraduate-level education. Therefore, statistics students with a graduate-level education have a competitive advantage in the job market.
In addition, graduate school provides advanced training and allows statistics students to participate in research and various hands-on projects. Upon graduation, you will have the freedom to apply for senior statistics roles and negotiate higher salaries.
What Jobs Can You Do With a Statistics Degree?
The jobs you can do with a statistics degree are statistician, financial analyst, actuary, database administrator, and economist. The best schools for statistics offer academic counselors and extensive student services to prepare you for the job market. It is a versatile degree that allows you to explore careers in different industries.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Statistics?
You can earn an average of $73,000 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics. According to Payscale statistics, a Bachelor of Science qualifies you for an average salary of $73,000 per year. Additionally, a Bachelor of Arts makes you eligible for $77,000, and a Master of Science earns $89,000 per year.
Highest-Paying Statistics Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Financial manager | Bachelor’s degree | $131,710 |
| Computer and information research scientist | Master’s degree | $131,490 |
| Mathematician | Master’s degree | $108,100 |
| Actuary | Bachelor’s degree | $105,900 |
| Economist | Master’s degree | $105,630 |
| Computer systems analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $99,270 |
| Database administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $98,860 |
| Statistician | Master’s degree | $95,570 |
| Operations research analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $82,360 |
| Financial analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $81,410 |
Best Jobs With a Statistics Degree
The best jobs with a statistics degree are financial managers, actuaries, analysts, mathematicians, and researchers. A statistics degree can get you anything from an entry-level job to a senior position in an established company, depending on your level of education. Below are a few examples of the best jobs for every degree level.
A statistics associate degree mostly makes you eligible for entry-level jobs. You will handle junior roles and assist other department employees in fulfilling administrative obligations. Entry-level positions require basic statistical skills like algebra, data analysis, data distribution, and mathematics.
Top Statistics Careers With an Associate Degree
A bachelor’s degree is vital for most statistics careers. The statistics fundamentals you learn through an undergraduate program can help you land a lucrative job. You can work in various industries that utilize statistics, research, and analysis skills, namely government, finance, business, and technology.
Top Statistics Careers With a Bachelor’s Degree
A statistics master’s program combines basic, advanced, and practical knowledge to prepare you for mid-level and senior roles in statistics. You can work as a mathematician, statistician, research scientist, and other roles that require more knowledge than a bachelor’s degree.
Top Statistics Careers With a Master’s Degree
A PhD is the highest level of education and it gives you access to high-ranking positions in research and academia. The jobs you can get with a statistics PhD also come with high annual salaries. Completing a PhD program hones your skills, giving you the knowledge to tackle challenging problems and make informed decisions as a leader.
Top Statistics Careers With a PhD
Internships can be an important part of your higher education experience. Internship experience often contributes to the final credits you need for graduation. In addition, when you spend at least three months working for statistics companies, you will gain practical knowledge and real-world experience.
Top Statistics Internships
How Can I Pay for Statistics School?
You can pay for statistics school by self-funding, applying for grants, scholarships, work-study plans, or taking out federal student loans. The best schools for statistics can be expensive, but there are numerous funding opportunities for students from all walks of life. Here are some popular funding options.
- Scholarships. Unlike loans, you don’t have to worry about paying back scholarships. A scholarship covers all or some of your tuition. Extensive research will help you find the best scholarships, but you can also win a scholarship from your college of choice.
- Grants. A grant is a primarily need-based form of financial aid that you don’t have to repay. Colleges, charity organizations, and the federal government offer grants.
- Assistantships. Assistantships are available to graduate students, especially PhD statistics students. They allow you to take up an assistantship role at the university or an independent company and simultaneously pursue your degree. In return, the employer covers your tuition and provides a stipend.
- FAFSA Loans. US citizens are eligible for federal student aid to help cover college tuition. Fill out the free application form and submit it on time to qualify for various benefits. You must begin to pay off your federal loan upon graduation.
- Private Loans. Private loans come from banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions and must be paid back. You can research the best loan providers and apply directly on the lender’s website. Popular loan providers include Sallie Mae, Ascent, and College Ave.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Statistics School for You
To choose the best statistics school for you, you should consider the curriculum, graduation rate, career goals, career services, flexibility, and student-to-faculty ratio. In addition, the school should cater to most, if not all, your academic needs and facilitate your entry into the professional field of statistics. Below are the top three factors to consider.
Curricular Content
The curriculum should include all the practical knowledge and skills needed at the degree level. For example, an associate degree program will cover basic statistics concepts and foundational knowledge to help you transition to an undergraduate program. The curriculum should also include relevant core courses, major requirements, projects, electives, and general courses.
Accreditation
Accreditation is important because it proves the school abides by set academic standards. Colleges and universities in the US rely on six regional accreditation bodies and a wide range of national accreditation agencies. You can find a school’s accreditation on the school website or the US Department of Education website.
Career Services
The best statistics schools prioritize the student’s professional life after graduation. Therefore, most schools set up a career services department where you can access guidance, support, and an array of student services. In addition, the counselors and advisers will prepare you for the job market and provide leads that facilitate job placement. Furthermore, career services will help you realize your future career goals.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Statistics?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for statistics. Statistics is a technical field that requires hands-on experience and extensive theoretical knowledge. Attending a respected statistics school with a quality curriculum will make your job search easier because your advanced skills will give you a leg up against the competition.
Statistics University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Statistics
We ranked the best statistics schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our statistics university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of statistics degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Statistics
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Best Statistics Schools FAQ
The job outlook for statisticians over the next ten years is very promising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 35 percent job growth rate for statisticians. The industry is expanding quickly, creating many job opportunities for students and professionals and ensuring there will be no shortage of jobs for statisticians.
Yes, statistics is a good major. As a statistics degree graduate, you will have access to several career paths and the knowledge to thrive in many industries. Furthermore, it is a well-paying industry, so you don’t have to worry as much about economic security or professional benefits.
The easiest education pathway to a statistics career is through an associate program. An associate program takes approximately two years and covers basic statistics concepts. In addition, an associate degree makes you eligible for entry-level statistics jobs, where you will gain experience and start on the path towards a higher degree.
Yes, you can succeed without a PhD in Statistics. Most professionals have a bachelor’s or master’s degree and they are successful in their industries. However, you may need a PhD if you are interested in statistics research or want to become a statistics professor.
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