Graduate level statistics is one of the most popular degrees among students who wish to further their careers and earn more money in the job market. These graduates are expected to be versatile, analytical and have a thorough understanding of quantitative data.
Statistics majors generally select a field of study that they like. These fields are very broad and cover a range of different areas of study. These may include demographics, economics, public health, social science and many others.
One major aspect that can influence the path of graduate level statistics is the student’s major. Most graduate degrees in statistics require a major in either math or computer science, which requires an extensive amount of math knowledge. If a student does not have these skills, they may want to consider other major subjects such as biology or business.
There are many opportunities available for statistics majors in the job market. Many companies hire individuals with a high school diploma or better who have completed their bachelor’s degree. Some companies also hire students who have been working for a year or two, or who have had some internship experience, if they possess a solid background in mathematics.
Graduates in graduate level statistics can get a job as a researcher or statistician in the government or private sectors. A variety of government agencies use data to predict the behavior of individuals and populations in certain environments and industries. These agencies often use data to help them decide what actions should be taken and how much time, effort and cost should be invested. Government agencies also use statistical information to assess the quality of their workforce.
Private sector employers rely on statistics to determine whether or not certain types of products are profitable. This information helps to determine which products will be best suited for marketing campaigns. Other companies use statistics to determine the profitability of new products and services. These private sector companies also use statistical information to make decisions about hiring and promotions within their company.
Graduates in graduate level statistics can also have career opportunities in the academe. Courses offered in these programs can provide students with the opportunity to study other fields, and increase their chances of finding work in academia after graduation.
Most students interested in researching jobs in the academe will pursue a PhD in the field of their choice. PhD programs in statistics cover a wide variety of topics, including methods used to calculate statistics and methods for interpreting statistical results.
Those seeking careers in the academia are advised to begin their graduate level statistics degree with a focus on data analysis. The coursework in this program will teach students to use various statistical methods to analyze and interpret data, including analysis of variance, hypothesis testing, correlation and linear regression.
Once they have completed a master’s degree in statistics, graduates may be able to move into research jobs in academia. These positions include professorships in research and statistics, where they will teach classes on specific statistical techniques and develop a portfolio of work based on their research.
Some graduates choose to enter the workforce by enrolling in a graduate level statistics program that focuses on teaching. This is often the path chosen by those with a Master’s degree and are ready to apply for jobs in the academic world. While these positions are often filled via entry-level positions in research departments, they also have the potential to lead to managerial and administrative positions.
These graduate level statistics positions are available in universities and also offer job security for those who have a graduate degree in statistics. Those who want to work with data from the private sector may decide to pursue positions in the private sector as consultants or in industry, especially in finance and accounting.