STATS-PHD - Statistics (PhD)

The department looks for students who wish to prepare for research careers in statistics or probability, either applied or theoretical. Advanced undergraduate or master's level work in mathematics and statistics provides a good background for the doctoral program. Quantitatively oriented students with degrees in other scientific fields are also encouraged to apply for admission. The program normally takes five years to complete.

Students are expected to successfully complete the following elements of the program: First Year Core Program courses; pass two of three parts of the qualifying examinations (end of first year); Stats 390 Consulting Workshop at least twice in years two and three, and Stats 319 Literature of Statistics once per year after passing the Qualifying Exam until the year after passing the dissertation proposal meeting; depth and breadth requirements (second, third and fourth years); dissertation proposal meeting (early spring quarter of third year); pass the University oral examination (fourth or fifth year); dissertation (fourth or fifth year).

From the student's arrival until the selection of a research adviser, the student's academic progress is monitored by the department's Director of Graduate Studies. Each student should meet at least once a quarter with the Doctoral Adviser to discuss their academic plans and their progress towards choosing a dissertation adviser. See Graduate Advising Expectations section for more information.

Students accepted to the Ph.D. program are offered financial support. All tuition expenses are paid and there is a fixed monthly stipend determined to be sufficient to pay living expenses. Financial support can be continued for five years, department resources permitting, for students in good standing. The resources for student financial support derive from funds made available for student teaching and research assistantships. Students receive both a teaching and research assignment each quarter which, together, do not exceed 20 hours. Students are encouraged to apply for outside scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial support.