Statistics, General

Statisticians work in virtually every area of industry and government, helping corporations, politicians and bureaucrats interpret data. Read on to find out about the education and training you need for a career in general statistics.

Inside General Statistics

Statistics is a branch of mathematics primarily concerned with the analysis of large sets of data. Its objectives are to transform otherwise unwieldy bodies of data into forms that are easy to present and understand, as well as to make predictions from that data using the core principles of mathematics. The American Statistical Association (ASA) indicates that statisticians contribute to important government decisions, such as on social and economic issues (www.amstat.org). They also help investigators and scientists make accurate predictions by ensuring information is valid and precise. Find out more about this career field by exploring some of the Study.com articles linked below.

Education Information

The ASA recommends that undergraduate students planning on a career in statistics major in applied mathematics or another related field. A bachelor's degree with sufficient coursework in statistics and math is generally the minimum requirement for entry-level employment with the federal government. A strong background in applicable fields, like biology, economics and computer science, may also increase chances of employment.

Upper-level and non-government positions in the field typically require a master's degree in statistics. In addition, some positions, such as in industrial research, entail several years of experience beyond graduate school, while university-level teaching and research positions require a doctoral degree. Here are a few articles describing some of the possible degree options for aspiring statisticians.

Distance Learning Options

A great deal of statistics coursework can be completed through distance education. While some online courses don't count as credit towards a degree, they may serve as continuing education for professional statisticians. Review the links below for more details about online learning programs.

Career Options

After earning an education in statistics, you may qualify for employment in a wide range of government and private sectors. Below are just a few possible career paths to consider.

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most statisticians were employed by the federal government in 2013 (www.bls.gov). Other industries with high employment of statisticians included scientific research and development services; colleges, universities and professional schools; and insurance carriers. The bureau reported that employment of statisticians was expected to increase 27 percent from 2012-2022. For statisticians across all industries, the BLS reported an average annual salary of $83,310 in May 2013. The federal executive branch offered an average annual salary of $98,050.

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