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Graduate Program in Statistics

Using data and mathematical analysis for decision making in government, business, natural and social sciences.

Graduate Program in Statistics

Using data and mathematical analysis for decision making in government, business, natural and social sciences.

professor helping students in computer lab

Why get a graduate degree in statistics?

The Graduate Program in Statistics emphasizes the development and adaptation of statistical ideas in the context of applied research preparing you for a diverse range of careers. The program has 50 graduate students and 17 faculty working in the areas of statistical genetics, biostatistics, spatial statistics, environmental statistics, non-parametric and semi-parametric methods and other areas. Master's and Ph.D. students gain advanced knowledge of theoretical and applied statistics for academic, research and industry jobs involving the collection, management and analysis of data. Statistics Ph.D. students are trained in advanced theory and methodology that will enable them to carry out independent research in the fields of statistics and biostatistics.

A distinctive feature of our graduate program is its career-focused interdisciplinary Consulting Practicum that provides hands-on, real world training to statistics graduate students in statistical consulting for external research agencies and other science programs at OSU. Graduate students also gain verbal and written communication through the Consulting Practicum to convey statistical ideas and methodology. The rigorous and comprehensive learning experience prepares them very well for jobs related to survey design and analysis in industry and research, and interdisciplinary research collaborations in science and technology sectors.

Rich Carone sitting in office space

"I am always deeply impressed with the mathematical maturity and fantastic programming skills of OSU statistics alumni who have worked at Korvis over the years."

Rich Carone (Statistics, M.S. '72) CEO of Korvis Automation

Meet our students and alumni

From HIV to COVID-19, analyzing data for the greater good

Katherine McLaughlin’s work explores a large number and wide variety of at-risk populations around the globe and involves collaborations with epidemiologists, statisticians, and public health officials.

Kindergartners’ behavior, socioeconomic risk linked to gut microbiome composition, function

A study of early school-aged children shows a connection between the bacteria in their gut and their behavior, and that parents play a key role in their kids’ microbiome beyond the food they provide.

Alumnus highlights important role of statisticians in clinical trials

Alumnus Ben Lyons (Ph.D. ’97) has taken his passion for biostatistics far, carving out a successful career in biotechnology and the pharmaceutical industry.

Making green energy safer for wildlife with statistics

Statistician Lisa Madsen and collaborators help estimate the total mortality of birds and bats at wind farms.

Next Steps