Looking for a Great Graduate Degree Program? Consider Statistics and Biostatistics!

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Rated by U.S. News & World Report as #1 in Best Business Jobs, #2 in 100 Best Jobs and #2 in Best STEM Jobs! 

“Statisticians practice the science of using data to make decisions. They decide what data they need and how to collect it, design experiments, collect data, analyze and interpret data, and report conclusions. And unlike most professions, statistics can be applied to a vast number of fields or issues, like the environment, public safety, health care and sports. As the famous mathematician and statistician John Tukey once told a colleague, ‘The best thing about being a statistician is that you get to play in everyone’s backyard.'”

The paths to graduate studies in statistics are just as diverse as the careers it can prepare you for. In fact, a study found that master’s degrees in biostatistics and statistics are the top two graduate degrees for jobs.

While advanced degrees aren’t always required for a career in statistics, many students seek graduate education as a means of cross-disciplinary study, to obtain a job in a specific field or simply further their knowledge.

Graduate programs not only include further studies in statistics and mathematics but may be tailored towards specific disciplines such as biostatistics, statistical computing, survey research and methodology and data science just to name a few.


Statistics

Studying statistics at the graduate level offers a deeper look into research applications of statistics. Programs may offer education in theoretical statistics, research methodology or the application of statistics to specific industries. You don’t have to possess an undergraduate degree in statistics for postgraduate studies. Many students hold undergraduate degrees complementary disciplines such as economics, business, or journalism for example.


Biostatistics

Biostatistics is one of the most popular statistics disciplines for graduate education, with most programs at the advanced degree level. It applies statistical analysis to data generated by the study of living organisms. Biostatisticians work in a wide range of fields including designing clinical trials of new medicines, evaluating the impact of environmental changes on organisms, and identifying public health concerns.


Ready to take the leap?

Take a look at ASA’s directory of statistics and biostatistics programs to find out more information on individual colleges and universities in the United States.