Master’s in statistics online programs

Gain data analytics expertise by earning a master’s in statistics online. Discover top programs to advance your skills and boost your earning potential.

Explore online master’s degree programs in statistics

Why earn a master's in statistics?

Data Skills

Develop advanced data analysis skills while earning your master's in statistics.

Develop a specialty

Choose a concentration to specialize in areas such as finance, healthcare, or biostatistics.

Flexible Schedule

An online format gives you the most flexibility, especially if you're balancing grad school with work.

Data analysis is an in-demand skill in healthcare, finance, and business. Earning a master's in statistics online can sharpen your statistical analysis abilities.

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Find the right online master’s in statistics program for you

Master's in statistics online degree overview

Earning a can advance your career and boost your salary potential. Getting your master's in statistics online can also prepare you for in-demand careers in statistics and data science.

In the program, you'll gain data analytics expertise while learning how to leverage statistical software and data visualization tools. You can specialize your degree with a concentration in financial statistics, biostatistics, or another field of applied statistics.

What jobs can you get with a master's in statistics?

A master's in statistics can lead to many high-paying roles. Earning potential varies depending on the industry, location, and experience. Below, find a few different positions you can pursue with this degree, with salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Statistician

Statisticians create data collection tools, evaluate data with statistical models, and interpret trends using data.

Median annual salary (2023): $104,110
Projected employment growth (2023–33): +12%

Mathematician

Mathematicians draw on mathematical theories to analyze data, conduct research, and test mathematical principles. Those working in applied mathematics use their skills to solve real-world problems.

Median annual salary (2023): $116,440
Projected employment growth (2023–33): +4%

Data scientist

Data scientists collect and analyze data, including evaluating the reliability of data sets and creating data visualizations. They may also make recommendations based on their analysis of data.

Median annual salary (2023): $108,020
Projected employment growth (2023-33): +36%

Master's in statistics curriculum

During a master's in statistics program, you'll build advanced knowledge of statistical methods and applied statistics.

Some common statistics courses at the master's level include:

Probability
Statistical computing
Forecasting
Bioinformatics
Statistical machine learning

Concentration

Choosing a concentration as part of your statistics master's degree will focus your course of study. Some programs let grad students design their own concentration by selecting electives.

Popular statistics concentrations include:

Biostatistics
Data science
Financial statistics
Applied statistics
Statistical computing

Admissions requirements for an online master's in statistics

Before applying to an online master's in statistics program, you'll need to meet the program's admissions requirements. Typically, that means holding a with a minimum GPA.

While you don't need an undergraduate degree in mathematics, most programs require prerequisite courses in statistics and mathematics. If you have a bachelor's degree in a different field, you may need to take additional classes to fulfill the prerequisites.

How to apply

Each program has a slightly different admissions process. Review the required materials and deadlines carefully when applying.

Application materials typically include:

An official transcript showing proof of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Standardized test scores such as the GRE
Letters of recommendation
A résumé
A statement of purpose

Explore online master’s degree programs in statistics

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a statistics master's and a data science master's?

Both statistics and data science master's programs emphasize data analytics and statistical methods. However, statistics graduate programs often offer applied and theoretical tracks, while data science programs generally focus on applied methods.

Which degree is best for a statistician?

Statisticians typically need a master's degree. Master's programs strengthen advanced data collection and analytical skills. Earning a master's in statistics prepares graduates for careers as statisticians, biostatisticians, and data scientists.

Can a statistician become a data scientist?

Yes, a statistician can become a data scientist. Data scientists typically study statistics, mathematics, business analytics, or a related subject. A master's in statistics prepares graduates for careers as statisticians or data scientists.

Who has a higher salary, statisticians or data scientists?

Statisticians and data scientists report similar annual median salaries, with statisticians earning $104,110 and data scientists earning $108,020 according to May 2023 BLS data. However, data scientists benefit from stronger projected employment growth.