Online Statistics Degrees
Erika Lasrado
Erika has broad experience in counseling, psychology, and human resources. Although she has done a master’s in psychology, she is currently pursuing a master’s in educational psychology to change careers. Erika is a foodie and reader and loves to research and write about various topics when time permits.
Degrees
Master of Psychology, Master of Educational Psychology
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.
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Statistics is a science that focuses on developing and assessing methods for analyzing, interpreting, presenting, and collecting empirical data. An online statistics degree emphasizes the subject of statistics as a scientific discipline and a service science that has powerful applications in medicine, sociology, chemistry, biology, agriculture, engineering, quality control, economics, and psychology. One can expect to learn mathematics, the components of statistics, and the real-world application of statistics in an online degree in statistics. Graduates of this degree can pursue job roles as research assistants, risk analysts, data analysts, and more. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 31% job growth for statisticians, which is much faster than average for the other professions[1].
Find the Best Online
Statistics Programs
An online degree in statistics can help individuals progress in their career in statistics and prepare them to work in government and large corporations. When choosing an institution for top-quality education, students must check for factors like the experience and quality of the faculty, program structure, accreditation status, and the availability of student resources, among others. FBD teams have evaluated many such factors across colleges and programs from all over the U.S. and, using a unique ranking methodology, prepared a list of institutions offering the best online statistics degrees:*
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| American Public University System | 111 W Congress St, Charles Town, West Virginia 25414 | $7,360 | 49% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online
Degree in Statistics
An online degree in statistics is designed to provide a framework for those who want to develop connections between statistical theories and concepts, implications on data science, and its real-world application of this statistical practice. The minimum amount of credits required to obtain this degree is 120, which can be completed in four years when finished full-time. One can finish it part-time and online as well. This degree will provide the tools to conduct research, develop systems, solve problems, and do much more. Students can acquire hands-on experience and can achieve the development of quantitative and analytical skills through the curriculum. The best statistics degrees focus on building on previous mathematical, statistical, and other courses, including psychology, sociology, agriculture, machine learning, engineering, biological sciences, quality control, medicines, and economics.
Curriculum and
Coursework
The undergraduate statistics curriculum aims to provide students with a fundamental background in core skill areas, including data management, computation, statistical practice, statistical methods and theory, and mathematical foundations. The statistics degree curriculum also focuses on preparing students to enter the workforce and deal with data in any form. It increases the importance of data science by expanding the ability of learners to manipulate and access data in multiple ways, deal with professional software for statistical analysis, and perform problem-solving algorithms.
Each institution and program has its independent requirements that a student must fulfill. However, one can expect standard core courses across curricula, including:
Calculus
This course develops competency in numeracy and teaches problem-solving – skills integral to the subject of statistics. It is one of the branches of mathematics that students can use throughout their academic pursuits. Knowledge of this subject is essential to prove one’s mastery of statistics.
Applied Statistics
This course uses statistical techniques to solve practical implementation of data analysis problems. Students learn about descriptive and inferential statistics. The course includes learning about management, analyzing, drawing conclusions, and collecting and interpreting data. It is a necessary subject for those who want to advance their careers and move into the emerging domains of data science and big data.
Theory of Statistics
In this course, students use a mathematical approach to predict, describe, and analyze the relationship between different things. The course also includes analysis, presentation, and collection of numerical data. It provides a basis for various approaches to data-analytic that are similar across social and scientific research. Learners understand how to study statistics from theoretical and mathematical perspectives, involving descriptive methods, inferences, model building, and probability theories.
Statistical Methods
This course highlights various statistical methods, including descriptive, predictive, parametric inferential, and nonparametric inferential methods. These methods are essential for students as they are tools that help analyze various data sets. Several mathematical formulae, techniques, and models are used to analyze statistics using raw research data.
Linear Algebra
This course is one of the branches of mathematics that studies various linear combinations, including the study of topics like planes, vector spaces, mappings, and planes, required for linear transformation. The course is extensive, including using linear algebra in engineering, computer science, and physics to design linear models using different algorithms.
Some other courses one can expect to find across online statistics degrees include but are not limited to:
To understand more about online undergraduate degrees, read the Guide to Bachelor’s Programs.
Learning Outcomes and
Skills Gained
Statistics is used in almost every industry to analyze past and present performance and datasets and make future predictions as well. The online statistics degree arms students with knowledge and skills they can use in various settings. For example, students with a statistical degree will be able to:
- work with comprehensive data using computing skills, professional software for statistical analysis, accessing and manipulating data in different ways;
- perform using high-level programming languages, algorithmic problem-solving techniques, and database systems;
- emphasize concepts and theories of complex data and give experiences in studying design and analyse data;
- practice with different explanatory and predictive models including methods for assessment and model building;
- demonstrate understanding challenges of confounding, bias, and design;
- apply fundamental knowledge of theoretical statistical foundations to make good analysis of data;
- communicate using complex statistical methods and have a clear understanding of standards of ethics;
- identify applications of basis statistics to educational research; and
- demonstrate application of quantitative approaches to real-world data and identify correct types of statistical strategies, and methods.
Types of Degrees Statistics
Students Can Obtain
An online degree statistics prepares students to learn how to use their knowledge and skills in statistics in different domains like social sciences, mathematics, business, and health care. This degree can prepare one for careers that demand statistical skills. Students can pursue the degree in two ways – a Bachelor of Arts or BA Statistics and a Bachelor of Science or BS Statistics.
Bachelor of Arts or BA in Statistics
The Bachelor of Arts or BA in Statistics emphasizes analyzing numerical data, which has applications in different fields. It deals with the organization, study, interpretation, analysis, and presentation of numerical and categorical data. It also provides specialized training and education for those interested in various industry statistical tools and methods. The curriculum is generally flexible and allows one to apply statistical methods to help with various challenges.
Bachelor of Science or BS in Statistics
The Bachelor of Science or BS in Statistics provides a fundamental base in statistical methods, techniques, and methods that will help students enhance their research and data analysis capabilities. It provides a framework to understand the impact of data science and its applications to other challenges. The degree prepares statisticians to use modern data techniques of statistics to collect, design, analyze, and visualize high-dimensional data sets.
Areas of Specialization for
Statistics Students
In the statistics degree online, students can opt for specializations that will help them gain domain-specific knowledge and expertise. Although it may be difficult to come across specializations in a bachelor’s degree in statistics, advanced degrees such as a master’s may provide some of the following options:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Data Science | This specialization relates to dealing with massive amounts of data. It includes dealing with modern techniques and tools of data science to derive meaningful information, make business decisions, and find unseen patterns. | Data Scientist |
| Decision Analytics | In this specialization, students use quantitative, systematic, and visual approaches to evaluate and address important challenges of today. It involves using various tools and incorporating aspects of economics, management techniques, and psychology. | Decision Analyst |
| Statistics and Applied Mathematics | This concentration uses mathematical methods and reasoning to solve practical decision-making problems of a scientific nature in various subjects, including medicine, physical and biological science, engineering, and social science. | Various roles in education, industry, and research |
| Quantitative Finance | This concentration uses various mathematical models and large datasets to evaluate financial securities and markets. Students learn about derivatives pricing and risk management; it helps them focus on building tools and applications for implementing the results of these models in the real world. | Quantitative Finance Analyst |
| Bioinformatics | This specialization involves the application of tools of analysis and computation to interpret biological data. Students learn to develop and use tools and software techniques to understand different biological data, specifically when there are large data sets. | Research scientists, biostatisticians, bioinformaticians, molecular biologists, microbiologists |
| Statistical Biology or Biostatistics | In this concentration, students learn to use various statistical tools. They learn research questions in biology, public health, and medicine. Students evaluate the association of data with other challenges like health outcomes, environmental exposures, and more. | Research scientists, biostatisticians, bioinformaticians, molecular biologists, microbiologists |
Full-Time and Part-Time
Programs
It takes a student four years to complete an undergraduate degree in statistics online. However, several factors can affect the length of the degree, like the number of classes one takes, program requirements, projects, etc. Students opting for part-time programs will require four to six years to get their degrees.
Accelerated Statistics
Programs
An accelerated online statistics degree can meet the needs of those learners who want to finish the program and join the workforce faster. Accelerated programs can be rigorous and demanding because they require students to take up heavier courseloads to shorten the duration of their programs. The University of Arizona[2] and Adelphi University[3] are fine examples of institutions offering accelerated degrees in statistics.
Requirements for Getting into an Online
Statistics Degree Program
Getting into an online statistics bachelor’s degree is rather straightforward. Students with a strong background in mathematics, calculus, algebra, and statistics will be preferred for enrollment. Usually, colleges ask for supporting academic documents like standardized test scores and transcripts. Although each institution will have its unique requirements, some standard online statistics degree admission requirements are:
- A completed application form and fees
- A high school education or GED
- Official academic transcripts
- American College Testing or ACT or Scholastic Aptitude Test or SAT scores
- Prerequisites of mathematics, theoretical statistics, and minimum of one science subject
- A Personal Statement
- Cumulative Grade Point Average of at least 2.00 on a 4.00 scale (generally required)
- Letters of Recommendation (required by some colleges)
How to Ensure an Online Statistics
Program Is Accredited
Accreditation is a process of determining and certifying an institution’s quality of education provided. Employers and universities always prefer students from accredited institutions because they are assured that those students have received a quality education.
A statistics online degree may be accredited by the Data Science Council of America (DASCA)[4], one of the bodies that provide programmatic accreditation for quality education in data science. Similarly, the American Statistical Association[5] is another accrediting body for statistical programs. Universities can also have additional regional accreditation from one of the six accrediting authorities in the U.S.:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NECHE)
- Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs[6] and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)[7] are two official sources to check whether an institution is accredited or not. Read the Guide to College Accreditation to understand the accreditation process.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for
Statistics Bachelor’s Students
Free statistics courses can boost one’s knowledge of statistics, providing additional information and deeper insights into the subject. Several erupted universities, professors, and online learning platforms provide free courses in statistics. Some examples are:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Probability and Statistics[8] | This is an introductory-level course that helps students learn about the basic concepts of the logic of statistical reasoning and gain fundamental knowledge of statistics. It is mostly designed for those with a prerequisite understanding of basic algebra. | Carnegie Mellon University-Open Learning Initiative |
| Intro to Statistics[9] | This course introduces tools and techniques for visualizing data and its patterns. Students learn several systematic techniques to understand the relationship of data with maths. Additional topics like probability, estimation, outliers, normal distribution, inference, and regression are covered. | Class Central – Standford University |
| Intro to Statistics[10] | This course helps students explore the field of statistics and how to extract meaning from data. Learners are introduced to various methodologies for visualizing relationships between datasets and getting a systematic overview of using relationships through mathematics. | Udacity |
Ways to Pay for an Online
Statistics Degree
Paying for college is a trial for most students, with the skyrocketing cost of higher education. Although online programs tend to be cheaper than traditional, on-campus ones, many find the need to seek financial assistance from external sources, such as:
Scholarships
Scholarships are financial awards that one receives for their academic talents, achievements, and other contributions made by them to their academic or other communities.
Grants
Grants are awarded to students with financial needs by non-profit organizations, federal governments, and foundations, among others, and can be used to pay for tuition or cover other educational expenses.
Private Student Loans
Students loans are provided by federal governments, banks, private lenders, and credit unions. Students can borrow up to 100% of their overall attendance cost, including fees, tuition, and other educational expenses. Loans attract interest and may therefore be an expensive option for students.
FAFSA
By filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA form, students can check whether they qualify to receive federal aid. The form assesses one’s eligibility for various financial aid like grants, federal loans, scholarships, work-study benefits, etc.
Read the financial aid guide to understand more about college funding.
Scholarships for Online Statistics
Degree Students
Those pursuing a bachelor’s in statistics can apply for various general or program-specific scholarships to help them pay for college tuition. Some of the statistics degree scholarships one can apply for include:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Bob Glahn Scholarship in Statistical Meteorology[11] | The Bob Glahn Scholarship in Statistical Meteorology is provided to students in their final two years of bachelor studies and are enrolled in a degree of atmospheric science or meteorology with a keen interest in statistical meteorology. It covers educational expenses like fees, tuition, and other course-related expenses like supplies, equipment, and books. | $2,500 | TBA |
| Curtis E. Huntington Memorial Scholarship[12] | The Curtis E. Huntington Memorial Scholarship was established to help students who need financial assistance and want to get into the actuarial profession. Applicants must be enrolled into accredited institutions as full-time seniors and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. | $3,000 | March 31, 2024 |
| Liberty Mutual Group Scholarship[13] | The Liberty Mutual Group Scholarship is provided to statistics majors pursuing or are interested in the field of risk management. Applicants must attend an accredited U.S. or Canadian University, display leadership skills, and hold a GPA of 3.0 or above. | $5,000 | April 01 |
Career Opportunities and Salaries
After Graduating
Statisticians can work in any sector where data can be collected and processed. Those graduating from an online degree in statistics program will often find work in various settings with diverse job titles. The overall employment for statisticians is projected to grow by 31% between 2021 and 2031), with an annual median pay of $87,000[1]. Here are some occupations and roles statisticians can take up:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Actuaries[14] | Actuaries analyze the financial uncertainty and costs of risks. They use statistics, mathematics, and economic theory to help assess potential event risks and help clients and businesses develop policies that minimize cost risks. | Analytical skills, communication skills, computer skills, interpersonal skills, math skills, problem-solving skills | $105,900 | 21% (much faster than average) |
| Computer Programmers[15] | Computer programmers test, modify and write scripts and codes that will allow computer applications and software to function correctly. They turn software engineers’ and developers’ designs into instructions that computers can follow. Programmers can also run tests to create new applications and software to produce expected results. | Analytical skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, detail-oriented | $93,000 | -10% (decline) |
| Statisticians[16] | Statisticians analyze data and apply computation techniques to solve problems. They decide on what data is typically needed to answer specific issues or questions and design experiments, opinion polls, and surveys to collect data. (Bachelor’s students may be able to get into entry-level jobs, as advanced degrees like a master’s are required for high-paying positions.) | Analytical skills, math skills, communication skills, logical thinking skills, problem-solving skills | $96,280 | 31% (much faster than average) |
| Economists[17] | Economists typically study the distribution and production of resources, services, and goods by analyzing and collecting data, evaluating economic issues, and researching trends. They can also explore economic issues and surveys, collect information, and analyze data using statistical techniques. | Analytical skills, speaking skills, critical-thinking skills, writing skills | $105,630 | 6% (as fast as average) |
| Financial Analysts[18] | Financial analysts guide individuals and businesses in decisions about money and attaining profit. They assess to build performance of bonds, stocks, and other types of investments. They recommend the collection of assets and individual investments and building portfolios. | Analytical skills, math skills, detail-oriented, computer skills, communication skills, decision-making skills | $95,570 | 9% (faster than average) |
| Survey Researchers[19] | Survey researchers analyze data and design surveys. They use surveys to collect factual data like salary information, employment, and other questions to understand the opinion of people, beliefs, desires, or preferences. They are also entrusted with conducting background research on several survey topics. | Analytical skills, communication skills, critical-thinking skills, problem-solving skills, detail-oriented | $59,740 | 6% (as fast as average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Bachelor’s
Students in Statistics
Although professional certifications, licenses, and state registration are not necessary to become a statistician, obtaining additional credentials apart from a statistics degree online can lead to more job opportunities, better career growth, and higher salaries. Here are a few to consider:
American Statistical Association Certifications
There are two certifications that the American Statistical Association or ASA provides. Applicants can attain the entry-level Graduate Statistician or GStat certification before applying for full accreditation or PStat:
PStat® Certification[20]
This certification is based on the professional portfolio submitted by the applicant and not an exam like in other cases. Applicants should provide proof of their academic credentials, including a graduate program in statistics or a related field.
SAS Certified Statistical Business Analyst Using SAS 9[21]
This certification is run by SAS and is aimed explicitly at those professionals who use STAT/SAS software to conduct or interpret complex statistical data analyses.
Other professional certifications provided by The Institute for Statistics Education[22], include:
Analytics for Data Science Certificate[23]
This certification covers areas from data visualization and network analysis to forecasting, deep dive in predictive analytics, and risk simulation. It gives candidates the skills to transform, understand, and model information to provide valuable data for informed decision-making.
Programming for Data Science[24]
There are four levels of this certification, including R (for novice programmers), R(for experienced programmers), Python (for novice programmers), and Python (for experienced programmers). Applicants can customize their programs by mixing courses within these four choices.
Additional Resources for Bachelor’s Students
in Statistics Degree
There are many additional resources available to individuals who want to pursue statistics, like seminars, events, publications, meetings, and more. One can avail of such resources by becoming a member of professional organizations, thereby increasing networking opportunities, knowledge, and skill. Bachelor’s degree in statistics online students can consider becoming part of one or more of the following organizations:
| Organization | Description |
|---|---|
| American Statistical Association[25] | The American Statistical Association aims to promote the profession and practice of statistics. It is one of the global communities of statisticians. It continuously operates to support excellence in the application, dissemination, and development of statistical sciences through meetings, education, advocacy, accreditation, and more. |
| International Statistical Institute[26] | The International Statistical Institute is a non-profit and non-governmental organization that aims to influence and support the international community of statisticians, operational and standing committees, regional networks, and special interest groups. |
| Institute of Mathematical Statistics[27] | The Institute of Mathematical Statistics is a non-profit organization that fosters the development and dissemination of the application and theory of probability and statistics. Students can avail of many resources and benefit from membership in other societies like the Bernoulli Society. |
| Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences[28] | The INFORMS is one of the unique international societies in operations research, analytics, and management sciences. It promotes greater public interest, awareness, and understanding of the many advantages of analytics and operations research. |
| International Association for Statistical Computing[29] | The International Association for Statistical Computing is an organization that fosters global interest in the exchange of technical knowledge and statistical computing between computing professionals, organizations, statisticians, governments, and the public. |
FAQs About Online Statistics
Degree Programs
Can you get a statistics degree online?
One can pursue a statistics degree online with a similar curriculum and specifications as available in an on-campus program. There is not much difference in learning, and the credibility of the degree remains the same as long as an accredited institute provides it.
Is an online statistics bachelor’s degree employable?
Can I become a statistician with a bachelor’s degree only?
Where can I typically work after completing a statistics degree?
What is the difference between a statistics degree and an applied statistics degree?
Is an online degree in statistics worth it?
Author Bio:
Erika Lasrado
Erika has broad experience in counseling, psychology, and human resources. Although she has done a master’s in psychology, she is currently pursuing a master’s in educational psychology to change careers. Erika is a foodie and reader and loves to research and write about various topics when time permits.
Degrees
Master of Psychology, Master of Educational Psychology
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.
Citations:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Statisticians
- The University of Arizona
- Adelphi University
- Data Science Council of America
- American Statistical Association
- Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
- Council for Higher Education Accreditation
- Carnegie Mellon University-Open Learning Initiative
- Class Central- Standford University
- Udacity
- The Bob Glahn Scholarship in Statistical Meteorology
- Curtis E. Huntington Memorial Scholarship
- Liberty Mutual Group Scholarship
- U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Actuaries
- U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Computer Programmers
- U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Statisticians
- U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Economists
- U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Financial Analysts
- U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Survey Researchers
- PStat® Certification
- SAS Certified Statistical Business Analyst Using SAS 9
- The Institute for Statistics Education
- Analytics for Data Science Certificate
- Programming for Data Science
- American Statistical Association
- International Statistical Institute
- Institute of Mathematical Statistics
- Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences
- International Association for Statistical Computing
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.