The terminal degree “Ph.D. in Statistical Science” represents the highest academic attainment for a statistician, and as such, requires in-depth knowledge of modern statistical theory and practice and an ability to conduct cutting-edge independent research in statistics. The degree program is a hybrid of mathematical theory, computation, and data analysis, and students are expected to be proficient in all three. Research areas of key departmental faculty in the program include statistical signal processing, biostatistics, statistical genetics, statistical graphics, data exploration, computational statistics, and biometric identification. The Department has had a history of producing top quality Ph.D. students from the former Information Technology program; many of them are employed in academia, the federal government, and technology firms. Ph.D.-level statisticians have 0% unemployment, and have a large range of high-end employment opportunities.
Degree Requirements: All students must take, at minimum, 24 approved credits of advanced emphasis coursework above the M.S. degree, including three core courses (STAT 876 or 971, and STAT 972-973) and five special emphasis courses selected in conjunction with a doctoral studies committee, plus 24 credits of dissertation work with a faculty member in the Department. Three written qualifying examinations must be passed, typically within the first year of studies:
Applied Statistics
Applied Probability
Statistical Inference
Qualifying Examination Schedule
Admission to candidacy will be based on two comprehensive exams: one covering the 8 advanced emphasis courses and one for the dissertation proposal presentation.
Admission Requirements: Students applying for the program will typically have their undergraduate and graduate work in a mathematically intensive discipline, including coursework in calculus, matrix algebra, advanced calculus (MATH 315 or equivalent with a B or better is required), probability and mathematical statistics, and courses similar to the M.S. core (STAT 544, 554, 652, 656). An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and a graduate GPA of 3.5 are the minimal requirements. Under exceptional circumstances, students may be admitted with a bachelor’s degree, but will be required to take 72 credits including courses associated with the M.S. in Statistical Science. Students are strongly encouraged to submit GRE scores, and they are required for consideration for financial support.
Application is made through the central Volgenau School Admissions Office website. The admissions deadlines are strict and are clearly stated here. Students are strongly encouraged to submit a complete package to the admissions office to avoid delays in processing separate mailings. International students must have minimal TOEFL exam scores, which are found here. (This is University policy and cannot be waived by the Department.)