Masters in Statistics programs prepare students to conduct research, teach and practice their knowledge of the theory, methodology and application of statistical principles as researchers and statistical consultants. A master's degree in statistics or mathematics usually is the minimum educational requirement for most statistician jobs. Research and academic positions usually require a Ph.D. in statistics. Beginning positions in industrial research often require a master's degree combined with several years of experience.
In order to apply for admission to a master’s program in statistics or biostatistics, students must possess an understanding of the basic concepts and methods of statistics, along with mathematics, calculus and linear algebra. Acceptance into graduate statistics programs does not require an undergraduate degree in statistics, although good training in mathematics is essential.
Masters in Statistics Program Curriculum
Statistics graduate schools teach core theories, applied statistics, critical thinking skills and practice principles. Many graduate schools offer degrees in fields that include a sufficient number of courses in statistics to qualify graduates for some entry-level positions with the Federal Government
Many master's programs in statistics often require the following coursework:
- Differential and integral calculus
- Statistical methods
- Mathematical modeling
- Design and analysis of experiments
- Applied multivariate analysis
- Mathematical statistics
Statistics Career Paths and Job Outlook
Those with graduate degrees in statistics enter fields such as medical research, government, financial services and healthcare. Master's and Ph.D. degree holders often engage in research, develop statistical methods, or, after a number of years of experience in a particular area, become statistical
consultants.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, statisticians held about 27,600 jobs in 2012. This number is projected to grow by 27% between 2012 and 2022. Statisticians with a master's degree in statistics who have a strong background in an allied field such as finance, biology, engineering or computer science, are expected to have the strongest prospects of finding jobs
Statistician Salary
In 2012 the median annual salary for statisticians was $75,560, the top 10% of earners made more than $121,890, while the bottom 10% of earners made less than $42,220.
