Students at Mason can earn a bachelor's degree in statistics starting in January.
Here’s a way to increase your odds of finding a fulfilling career: Students can begin taking classes now toward the new bachelor of science in statistics. Mason Engineering will offer the degree for the first time in January 2018.
“Over the last several years, there has been an enormous increase in demand for this degree program,” says Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs Sharon Caraballo. “Because of the growing interest in big data and data analytics, students have been asking for an undergraduate degree in statistics. The job market in this field is tremendous.”
Classes that count toward the degree are available this fall, says Elizabeth Johnson, coordinator of the program and an assistant professor of statistics. Students can contact her now to plan their course of study.
The degree features three concentrations: mathematical statistics, statistical analytics, and applied statistics. The program will prepare students to become statisticians who design studies, collect data, analyze data sets, and draw sound conclusions.
Mason Engineering also offers an MS in biostatistics, an MS in statistical science, and a PhD in statistical science, as well as other specialized degree combinations. The school is one of only a few schools of engineering with a department of statistics. This proximity allows for multidisciplinary collaborations between engineering and statistics.
Statistics degrees are ideal for people who want challenging and interesting careers, says William Rosenberger, a University Professor and chair of Mason’s Department of Statistics. “What could be better than collecting and analyzing data from some of the most important studies that impact humanity. Statistics is important for all aspects of science, government, industry, and society.”
Graduates often work in the pharmaceutical industry, medical device companies, private survey companies, the financial services industry, and federal agencies, such as the FDA, NIH, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau and USDA’s National Agriculture Statistics Service. There is a proliferation of good jobs because many places need statistical expertise, Rosenberger says.
For more information about the BS in statistics, contact Elizabeth Johnson or visit the program page.
"Statistics is important for all aspects of science, government, industry, and society.”
William Rosenberger, Chairman of Mason’s Department of Statistics.