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Department of Statistics

Statistics Major

Our undergraduate statistics program is growing rapidly and is one of the largest in the country, with almost 300 students. Home to one of the largest groups of statistics faculty in the nation, our department offers our students academic and research opportunities in a wide variety of areas. Biostatistics, data science, business analytics, environmental statistics, statistical genetics, sports analytics, and theoretical statistics are just a few of the subject areas in which our faculty excel.

About one-third of our students move on to pursue advanced degrees in statistics or related fields following graduation, while others enter the workforce prepared for lucrative careers in a variety of fields.

Objectives

Upon Completion of our program, students will be able to

  • Explain the theoretical basis of commonly used statistical methods.
  • Design sample surveys and experiments for standard situations.
  • Correctly analyze and interpret the results from designed experiments, sample surveys and observational studies.
  • Demonstrate computer programming ability to manage data, implement standard statistical methods and learn new programming languages in the future.
  • Explain statistical ideas, methods and results to nonstatistical audiences.

Requirements

View the current degree requirements. In addition to meeting the university’s General Education Program requirements, all statistics majors must take:

Foundational Courses in Mathematics (18 credits)

  • Three semesters of calculus: MA 141, MA 241, MA 242
  • Additional mathematics: MA 225, MA 305 or MA 405

Statistical Programming and Computer Science (11 credits)

  • Introductory Computer Programming: ST 114, CSC 111 or CSC 116
  • SAS Programming: ST 307, ST 445
  • R Programming: ST 308
  • Computational Statistics Elective

Statistical Theory and Methods (27 credits)

  • Statistical Methods: ST 311, ST 312, ST 430, ST 431, ST 432
  • Statistical Theory: ST 421, ST 422
  • Advanced Statistical Electives: 6 credits of 400-level ST courses

Advised Electives (12 credits)

  • Each student will work with their advisor to formulate an individualized 12-credit plan to enhance the student’s educational goals. These credits will often be applied to an undergraduate minor or second major.

Communication and Advanced Writing (10 credits)

  • Communication: COM 110, COM 112 or COM 211
  • Writing: ENG 101 and one of ENG 331, ENG 332, ENG 333

Natural Sciences (11 credits)

  • Electives must include (i) two or more laboratory courses and (ii) three or more 3-credit or 4-credit courses

Contact

Spencer Muse
5276 SAS Hall
919-515-1948
spencer_muse@ncsu.edu