Are you interested in mathematics and have a passion for solving challenges? A bachelor’s degree in statistics might be a great choice for you! Statisticians take raw data and transform it into meaningful pieces of information. Graduates with their bachelor’s in statistics are prepared for entry level statistician jobs in different industries including:
- Healthcare
- Government
- Finance
- Manufacturing
An online statistics bachelor degree program includes coursework in areas like mathematics and computer science. Statistics degrees online can be a stand-alone program or offered as a concentration within a mathematics program.
While advanced and upper-level statistician jobs typically require a master’s degree, there are plenty of entry level roles available for professionals who earn their statistician degree online.
We created our ranking of the top five online bachelor’s degrees in statistics to showcase some of the best programs in the country. Since there are not many bachelor’s degree programs specifically for statistics, we expanded our search to include mathematics programs with a concentration in statistics or a closely related area of statistics.
We used College Navigator to find schools offering these types of programs. We researched the schools to gain more knowledge about the programs they offer. For the purpose of this ranking, we defined an online program as one having most their courses available online. We applied our ranking criteria to find the top five online bachelor’s in statistics programs.
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Rating and Ranking Methodology
Average Net Tuition Rate:
- Less than $15,000- 3 points
- $15,000 to $19,000- 2 points
- Greater than $19,000- 1 point
Student/Faculty ratio:
- 11:1 or less- 3 points
- 12:1 to 17:1- 2 points
- 18:1 and above- 1 point
Overall Graduation Rate:
- 30% to 50%- 1 point
- Greater than 50%- 2 points
Retention Rate for First-Time Students Pursuing Bachelor’s Degrees:
- 50% to 75%- 1 point
- Greater than 75%- 2 points
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#5 Southern New Hampshire University – Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics-Applied Mathematics Specialization
Website
Average Net Price: $41,217/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Overall Graduation Rate: 37%
Retention Rate of Full-Time Students: 67%
Points: 4
What’s Unique
The online mathematics degree from Southern New Hampshire University helps students develop an advanced skill set in:
- mathematical methods
- reasoning
- problem solving
Students can complete a concentration in applied mathematics. They will solve complex real-world problems using statistical methods and techniques. Specializations are available in:
- statistical analysis
- operations research
- dynamic modeling
Southern New Hampshire University offers “Pathways to Math Success” assessments that allow students to earn math credits for what they already know. Students can earn up to 12 math credits toward their degree by passing these assessments.
Students in the mathematical statistics track will use industry-standard programming languages like R and Python to solve real world problems in almost every industry. Tuition discounts are available for US military members and their spouses.
Graduates are prepared for a variety of exciting careers including:
- actuary
- operations research analyst
- statistician.
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#4 Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics-Predictive Modeling
Website
Average Net Price: $15,629/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Overall Graduation Rate: 23%
Retention Rate of Full-Time Students: 51%
Points: 5
What’s Unique
Bellevue University is a private, non-profit university with almost 10,000 students and over 80 career-focused programs. They provide practical programs designed around job market demands.
Their affordable online bachelor degree in statistics is a career focused degree. Students learn how to handle complex analytical challenges at work. They engage in hands-on projects and connected learning, creating mathematical and statistical models that help leaders make business decisions.
The predictive modeling emphasis area is unique at Belleville. Students are awarded credit for taking courses through Statistics.com at The Institute for Statistics Education. Statistics courses include:
- R Programming
- Forecasting Analytics
- Predictive Analytics-Machine Learning Tools
Flexible online courses allow students to complete their assignments during the day or night. A Student Coach is assigned to each student to help them stay on track and provide support through graduation.
Bellevue financial aid counselors work closely with students. They help students find opportunities to lower their cost of tuition. Students are encouraged to complete their FAFSA to identify federal grants or loans. Scholarship opportunities are available through Bellevue to qualified students. Some employers offer tuition reimbursement benefits to their employees, so it’s always a good idea to check and see what benefits might be available.
#3 University of Massachusetts – Lowell, Massachusetts
Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics-Statistics Concentration
Website
Net Price: $19,147/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Overall Graduation Rate: 69%
Retention Rate of Full-Time Students: 84%
Points: 6
What’s Unique
UMass Lowell created their BS in Mathematics degree program with a statistics concentration to accommodate the needs of busy adult learners. Students can work on their online degree in statistics at their own pace, earning their bachelor’s in statistics in as few as 12 months.
Courses are delivered in a hybrid format. Required mathematics courses are offered during the evening hours. Liberal arts courses are available online. This flexibility allows students to complete their degree around their work schedule.
While the main program covers calculus, linear algebra and probability, the statistics concentration courses include:
- Applied Statistics
- Probability and Statistics
- Linear Statistics Modeling and Regression
- Experimental Design
Students can save money by transferring in up to 90 college credits. There are a variety of financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Online courses charge the same low tuition rate to students regardless of where they live. Scholarship opportunities include:
- Dean’s Scholarship for Graduate, Online and Professional Studies- applicants must have at least a 3.5 GPA and be a lawful resident of the US to apply
- Judy Feeney ’06 Endowed Scholarship Fund
- Leo F. King Endowment Fund- available to students who have been out of high school for at least five years and have a GPA of at least a 2.8. Applicants must be enrolled in at least six credit hours and have a clear sense of purpose for completing their degree
- Professor Bernard and Diana (Yana) Shapiro Scholarship (GPS)- this merit-based program is awarded to full-time students with a GPA of at least a 3.0 and demonstrated financial need.
Graduates are prepared for a variety of exciting careers in areas like:
- operations research
- computer programming
- data science.
#2 Chadron State College – Chadron, Nebraska
Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics-Applied Statistics Minor
Website
Average Net Price: $15,156/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Overall Graduation Rate: 42%
Retention Rate of Full-Time Students: 69%
Points: 6
What’s Unique
The applied statistics online bachelor degree completion program at Chadron State College is a rigorous program that helps students develop their mathematical ability and knowledge. Students will learn how to:
- communicate about and with mathematics to a diverse audience.
- use technology to solve problems
- develop a strong mathematical ability
- apply the mathematical sciences to other academic disciplines
Statistics and applied math courses include:
- Statistical Methods and Data Analysis
- Probability and Statistics
- Sampling Techniques
- Linear Algebra
Statistics concentration courses are offered in convenient eight-week sessions. There are no on-campus residency requirements. Courses are offered during the fall, spring and summer semesters in an asynchronous format. Students will complete all assignments, projects and papers through a virtual classroom.
Students interested in a career in teaching can take advantage of two endorsements including:
- Bachelor of Science in Education-Field Endorsement in Mathematics (Grades 6-12)
- Bachelor of Science-Education-Middle Level Education Academic Area in Mathematics
Both in-state and out-of-state students benefit from the same great low tuition rate!
#1 American Public University – Charles Town, West Virginia
Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics-Statistics
Website
Average Net Price: $11,503/year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Overall Graduation Rate: 48%
Retention Rate of Full-Time Students: 98%
Points: 7
What’s Unique
Our top online statistics degree program is offered by the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math at American Public University, a member of the accredited American Public University System. They offer an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a concentration in statistics. This 21-credit hour concentration includes core courses in:
- Linear Regression
- Multivariate Statistics
- Non-Parametric Statistics
- Stochastic Processes
Students will strengthen their critical thinking and data analysis skills. They will learn how to solve complex science and technology problems. Online courses start monthly and last between eight and 16 weeks.
All students complete a senior seminar course. They work with real-world case studies and prepare an approved academic project or paper.
Students can apply their knowledge to a variety of industries including data science and engineering. The program serves as a useful step toward a graduate education in statistics or a related field.
There’s no application fee or cost for a transcript credit evaluation. Textbooks and ebooks are also provided to the student at no cost.
Is a bachelor’s in statistics a good degree?
Statistics is a great degree choice for mathematically inclined students who want to apply their skills to solve problems. Students pursuing another major in an area like business or healthcare can boost their analytic skills with a minor or second major in statistics.
Statisticians use statistical tools, models, and software to analyze data and find relationships or trends that can help business leaders make better decisions. Statisticians are in demand by a variety of industries largely due to the rapid increase in data from a variety of sources.
The role of statisticians varies depending on the industry and type of role they work in. Entry level statisticians have the basic knowledge needed to create surveys. They can conduct experiments to collect specific data to help answer questions. They:
- analyze the data
- look for patterns
- present their findings
Experienced statisticians or those with a master’s degree might develop new data processes or oversee statistical teams within an organization.
Students considering a career in statistics should have a skill set that includes:
- Analytical Skills
- Computer and Technical Skills
- Communication Skills
- Critical Thinking Skills
- Computing Skills
An undergraduate program in statistics or a related field can serve as a strong foundation for a graduate degree. Data scientists who earn a graduate degree in statistics online have additional opportunities for career advancement and can command a higher salary.
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What are the different application areas of statistics?
- Applied Statistics- Applied statistics, or statistical science, is the foundation for data analysis. To find solutions to problems, applied statisticians use:
- statistics
- analysis techniques
- real-world data
- Mathematical Statistics- A subset of applied statistics is mathematical statistics. Mathematical statistics views statistics from a mathematical standpoint. They use probability theory, linear algebra, and measure theory to interpret data.
- Data Mining- Data mining, also known as knowledge discovery in data (KDD), is a process using a broad range of techniques to find anomalies and correlations in big data to predict outcomes. Data mining requires strong math skills. Linear algebra and probability are key math skills that someone interested in data mining should have.
- Computational Statistics- Computational statistics or statistical computing is the interface between computer science and statistics. Experts use computational methods and computer algorithms to find solutions that are analytically difficult to find.
- Mathematical Modeling- Mathematical modeling uses assumptions to create sample data and make predictions. Statisticians and mathematicians test mathematical models against real data.
What jobs are available to graduates with a bachelor’s in statistics?
Earning a bachelor’s degree in statistics can open the door to a wide variety of career possibilities. Statistics majors can choose from several popular career choices including:
- Actuary:
Actuarial science professionals assess financial risk. Many actuaries work in the insurance industry, specializing in different lines including health, life, and P & C. They use a variety of mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in insurance, finance, and other industries. Students interested in this career would pursue a major in actuarial science to get industry specific training.
- Statistician:
Statisticians are in demand by many different fields. From healthcare to engineering, the skillset a statistician brings to the table is well respected and in-demand. Statisticians may have several different job responsibilities including designing surveys and creating materials to share with stakeholders.
- Management Analyst:
Management Analysts are professionals who work to improve the efficiency of an organization. Some management analysts work as consultants who are hired by an organization for short term projects. They collect analyze data to recommend new policies and procedures and collaborate with leadership to come up with solutions to complex challenges.
- Financial Analyst:
Financial Analysts use their statistical knowledge to assess the performance of:
- stocks
- bonds
- other investment products
They help their clients come up with sound financial strategies. Some financial analysts work on the sell-side as advisors to financial services sales agents. Others work on the buy-side with institutional investors and large endowments.
How much money can you make after earning a bachelor’s in statistics online degree?
Statistics is a financially rewarding career choice. According to payscale.com, the average base salary for graduates with their bachelors in statistics is $72,000/year. Experienced statisticians typically have a higher salary. Some of the best paying jobs in the field of statistics according to payscale.com include:
- Data Scientist: $85,255/year (average salary)
- Business Intelligence Analyst: $66,632/year (average salary)
- Statistician: $70,310 (average salary)
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the demand for mathematicians and statisticians is expected to grow by 33%, a much faster rate than average, through 2030.
The BLS provides a list of the industries with the highest levels of employment for statisticians. These include:
- Scientific Research and Development Services- Statisticians in this industry are involved in conducting research or applying research findings to aid in the development of new products or processes. They may run complex data analysis in areas like:
- biostatistics
- agricultural statistics
- health care statistics
They look for patterns and advise on findings.
- Federal Executive Branch- Surprisingly, one of the largest industries employing statisticians is the Federal government. Statisticians work to collect, process, and interpret big data for statistical purposes. Information may be used by the public or among a set of agencies and units within the executive branch of government.
- Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services
The employment growth for statisticians is a direct result of the widespread use of data analysis to help leaders make informed decisions in areas like business and healthcare. As businesses and organizations collect and store more data, they will need statisticians to help them make sense of and analyze big data using proven statistical methods.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 42,000 people were employed as statisticians in 2020 and project that number to grow to 56,900 by 2030.
The five states with the highest employment level for statisticians are:
- California- There are over 4,910 statisticians working in California. Most of those jobs are located in San Francisco/Oakland/Hayward and Los Angeles/Long Beach/Anaheim. California ranks 5th in the list of the top paying states for statisticians with an annual mean wage of $112,050.
- Maryland- Maryland is home to 3,250 statisticians. They rank 4th in pay with an annual mean wage of $113,100.
- Pennsylvania- 2,720 statisticians work in Pennsylvania. Their annual mean wage is $92,670. Most statisticians work in the Philadelphia area.
- Massachusetts- Massachusetts employs 2,620 statisticians. Massachusetts is the third top paying state for statisticians with an annual mean wage of $116,180. Most jobs are in the Boston/Cambridge area.
- Texas- Texas has the 5th highest employment level for statisticians with over 1,930 working in the state. The annual mean wage for statisticians in Texas is $87,250.
How much does it cost to get a bachelor’s in statistics?
It’s no secret that earning a mathematical statistics degree is a significant financial investment. According to information provided by the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of college has more than doubled in the 21st century.
A student attending an in-state public university can expect to spend over $25,000 for one year of college. Students attending private school can pay significantly more.
Earning your statistics degree online can be a more affordable alternative to a traditional brick and mortar program. Online data analysis programs may offer reduced tuition rates and some schools charge the same rate regardless of the student’s state of residency. Programs that offer a bachelors in statistics online support the needs of adult learners who benefit from flexible scheduling and deadlines.
Many online learners choose to continue working while earning their degree, reducing their overall college debt. Online students can save money by eliminating expenses like on-campus housing and pricey meal plans when they complete their degree from home.
It’s important to note that your overall cost of tuition and fees for your statistics degree will likely differ from the university’s “sticker price.” Students should complete the FAFSA to determine what financial aid awards they may qualify for. The cheapest statistics bachelor’s programs offer scholarships and grants to help keep the cost of school affordable.
How long does it take to complete a bachelor’s in statistics?
A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree that students complete after earning a GED or a high school diploma. Students can also enter a bachelor’s degree completion program with their associate’s degree. Full-time students can typically complete their bachelor’s degree in four years. Part-time students may take longer as they balance school with their other obligations.
Universities offering a bachelor’s degree in statistics may provide students with an accelerated option. Accelerated programs help students who have completed their associate degree (or equivalent coursework) finish their bachelor’s degree in as few as 12 to 18 months. These programs may offer additional savings to their students by shortening the amount of time it takes to complete their degree.
What are the requirements for a bachelor’s in statistics degree online?
Most bachelor’s degree programs in statistics require their students to complete their high school diploma or GED before applying. While in high school, students should take advantage of course offerings in mathematics and computer science to build a foundation for success.
Online statistics degree programs may be offered as either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts. They may be offered as a concentration within a bachelor’s of mathematics or business program. Courses cover a variety of areas that include:
- statistical modeling
- statistical analysis
- data analytics
- probability
- statistical computing
- Big Data
- mathematical modeling
- business analytics
- data mining
- statistical theory
Students will typically complete a capstone course at the end of their statistics degree program to showcase their knowledge and skills using a case-study or real-world dataset. This capstone experience allows students to build their resume and create a professional portfolio of their work for prospective employers.
Will I need to complete an internship to get a bachelor’s in statistics degree?
Most online programs do not require their statistics students to complete an internship at the bachelor’s degree level. Online programs provide students with hands-on training using real case study data. Each degree program will have their own requirements for practical, hands-on training.
Some undergraduate degree programs may offer an internship or practicum experience as an elective course offering which students can complete in their own community. These exciting experiential learning opportunities allow online statistics degree students to gain professional experience with supervision from an experienced professional.
What are some examples of courses needed for a bachelor’s in statistics degree?
Statistics students will take courses in areas like:
- statistics
- applied mathematics
- computer science
- data analytics
- statistical theory
Courses typically cover areas that include:
- Machine learning tools and techniques
- Mathematics (probability and calculus)
- Programming languages like Python and C/C++
- Software engineering skills that include algorithms and data structures
- Statistical software packages like SPSS or Stata
- Linear and abstract algebra
Will I need any licenses or certificates to get a job in statistics?
Fortunately, there are no licenses or certificates needed to score a great job in statistics. Most statisticians have a bachelor’s degree in a quantitative area like mathematics or computer science. Students should take courses in:
- statistics
- probability
- computer programming
- data analytics
- research methods
These help students develop their skills and become familiar with the types of technology used in the field. Students should also consider the industry they’d like to work in and take related courses to gain domain knowledge. Popular choices are:
- healthcare
- manufacturing
- education
Are there graduate programs in statistics?
Now that you’ve completed your bachelor’s in statistics, what’s next? Many schools offer a master’s degree or graduate certificate in statistics or a closely related field. An online master’s program can be a great choice for students who want the benefits of an advanced degree without taking time away from work or traveling to campus.
Graduate certificate programs are another great way for students to gain advanced computational skills by taking upper division courses in statistics. Some certificates allow students to choose elective courses that align with their industry. An online program may also be a good choice for working professionals.
Are there any professional organizations for people with a career in statistics?
Statisticians are supported by several different professional organizations.
- American Statistical Association:
The American Statistical Association is the premier professional organization dedicated to promoting the practice and profession of statistics. They publish 17 different journals and hold six yearly conferences. The ASA has over 19,000 members working in a variety of professions that include academia and research.
- Institute of Mathematical Statistics
The Institute of Mathematical Statistics is an international organization focused on the development, dissemination, and application of statistics and probability. They currently have over 4,000 members around the world. The IMS publishes a variety of journals and hold several international professional conferences each year.
- American Mathematical Society
The American Mathematical Society was founded in 1888 to advance research and connect the diverse mathematical community through their efforts that include:
- Publications including books, peer-reviewed journals, and MathSciNet, the authoritative gateway to the scholarly literature related to mathematics
- Meeting and conferences including international and sectional meetings, short courses, and special lectures
- Resources for professionals working in academia, business, industry, and government
- Advocacy for policy and research
Membership is open to students, professionals, retirees, and others at every stage of their professional lives.
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