Online Master’s in Statistics

By Erika Lasrado

Updated February 13, 2023
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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 concerned with developing and studying methods for analyzing, interpreting, presenting, and collecting empirical data in various formats. A master’s level of study in statistics will help one specialize in a domain of research or professional field practice. The online master’s in statistics program helps students gain knowledge that will prepare them for careers in occupations that demand advanced statistical skills. Students can expect a master’s in statistics online to provide in-depth statistical knowledge, hands-on and practical experiences in statistical methods, and methods that can help apply theories to real-world challenges. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for statisticians is projected to be 31%, which is much faster than the average for other occupations[1].

Find the Best Online Master’s in
Statistics Programs

The master’s in statistics degree is one of the best programs for students to develop knowledge and skills in statistics and prepare them for a professional career or doctoral study. Therefore, prospective students must choose a top degree than has a suitable program structure, offers student support services, is taught by qualified and trained faculty, and is accredited. Our team at FBD has evaluated many schools and degrees from all over the U.S. and, using a unique ranking methodology, prepared a list of colleges offering the best online master’s in statistics programs: *

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 Master’s
Degree in Statistics

The master’s in statistics online provides advanced training in exploring topics in statistics, maths and applied statistics to conduct collaborative research environment and specialized coursework in different areas of emphasis. It is intended to prepare students to become practicing statisticians, provide enhanced research expertise and pursue advanced degrees in other domains, and strengthen statistical and mathematical training of students preparing for doctoral studies in statistics or related fields. There can be both thesis and non-thesis requirements for the program, and one can complete it full-time or part-time. Generally, the degree can range from 30 to 50 credits and aims to develop further knowledge and skills in statistics to prepare students for a professional occupation or doctoral study.

Curriculum and
Coursework

Learning Outcomes and
Skills Gained

Types of Master’s Degrees Statistics
Students Can Obtain

Areas of Specialization for
Statistics Students

Full-Time and Part-Time
Programs

The master’s degree in statistics online takes an average of two years to complete full-time. When taking up part-time, students would require two to three years to finish. It is also possible to finish the degree in 18 months or less when it is pursued online or is fast-tracked.

Accelerated Statistics
Programs

An accelerated online master’s in statistics focuses on a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that will help one complete the program quickly. It is typically preferred by those who want to earn their degree faster to enter the workforce. The Western Michigan University[2] and the University of Arizona[3] are excellent examples of institutions offering accelerated online master’s in statistics programs.

Requirements for Getting into an Online Master’s
in Statistics Program

No GRE Online Master’s in
Statistics Programs

Most universities require students to submit their Graduate Record Examination[4] or GRE scores during enrollment. However, many master’s programs do not mandate a GRE score or waive off the requirement for a specific year or under special circumstances. Some universities offering online master’s in statistics no GRE programs are the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign[5] and the University of Arizona[6].

How to Ensure an Online Master’s in Statistics
Program Is Accredited

Where to Find Free Online Courses for Statistics
Master’s Students

Students can consider taking free statistics courses from many reputed universities and professors. The knowledge these courses provide could extend one’s basic understanding of statistics and help one become an expert in a sub-area of the subject. Some free courses to explore are:

CourseDescriptionProvided by
MicroMasters Program in Statistics and Data Science[11]In this course, students master the concepts of data science, machine learning, and statistics. They learn to analyze big data and make data-driven predictions through statistical inferences and probabilistic modeling. Students also learn how to build machine learning algorithms and extract meaningful data from unstructured information.edX
Statistics Fundamentals[12]This course teaches learners how to quantify mathematical predictions using statistical tools to conduct experiments and discover the truth about various datasets. An essential aspect of the course is learning about tools needed to detect fake data.Class Central
Data Analysis with R Specialization[13]This course explores sampling and datasets and Bayes’ rule and probability theory basics. Learners examine many sampling methods using exploratory data analysis techniques, including basic data visualization and numeric summary statistics.Coursera

Ways to Pay for an Online Master’s
in Statistics

Scholarships for Online Master’s in Statistics
Degree Students

Career Opportunities and Salaries
After Graduating

Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s
Students in Statistics

Additional Resources for Master’s
Students in Statistics Degree

FAQs About Online Master’s in
Statistics Programs

What does a statistician do?

Why should you do a master’s in statistics degree online?

What is the difference between a master’s in statistics and a master’s in applied statistics?

What can you do with an online statistics master’s degree?

Is an online master’s degree in statistics worth it?

Can I do a statistics master’s without a bachelor’s?

Can I teach with an online master’s in statistics degree?

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:

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics-Occupational Outlook for Statisticians
  2. Western Michigan University
  3. The University of Arizona
  4. Graduate Record Examination
  5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  6. University of Arizona
  7. Data Science Council of America
  8. American Statistical Association
  9. Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
  10. Council for Higher Education Accreditation
  11. edx-MicroMasters Program in Statistics and Data Science
  12. Class Central-Statistics Fundamentals
  13. Coursera-Data Analysis with R Specialization
  14. Edward C. Bryant Scholarship for an Outstanding Graduate Student in Survey Statistics
  15. Gertrude M. Cox Scholarship
  16. John J. Bartko Scholarship Award
  17. Mary G. and Joseph Natrella Scholarship
  18. U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Actuaries
  19. U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Computer Programmers
  20. U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Statisticians
  21. U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Economists
  22. U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Financial Analysts
  23. U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Survey Researchers
  24. PStat® Certification
  25. SAS Certified Statistical Business Analyst Using SAS 9
  26. The Institute for Statistics Education
  27. Analytics for Data Science Certificate
  28. Biostatistics Certificate
  29. American Statistical Association
  30. International Statistical Institute
  31. Institute of Mathematical Statistics
  32. Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences
  33. 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. | Page last updated: Dec 2023.