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Doctorate in Statistics 

The Ph.D. in statistics from OSU is a four-year program (depending on background) in mathematical and applied statistics that will prepare graduates for leadership roles in industry, government and academia. Our small, cohesive department boasts internationally recognized research programs and provides students with opportunities to work with faculty as teaching and research assistants. 

Curriculum

The program consists of five core statistical theory courses beyond the M.S. in Statistics.

 

  • Advanced Probability
  • Advanced Inference
  • Large Sample Theory
  • Multivariate Statistical Theory
  • Statistical Computing

Upon completion of the program, you will have the fundamental knowledge and research experience necessary to develop novel statistical methods for the analysis of new, complex data and disseminate results. The department offers a wide-variety of applied elective courses, including courses in analytics and experimental data analysis that will help you become an expert interdisciplinary researcher and collaborator.

 

Program Milestones

Students are required to pass these milestones in the following order.  Students earning an M.S. in Statistics from OSU will have already passed the Ph.D. preliminary exam while pursuing the M.S.

Milestone Timing Details
Pass PhD preliminary exam covering MS level Probability, Inference, Linear Models, Experimental Design courses As soon as possible but not later than the second year of study. Two attempts are allowed.  Exam is offered annually in January prior to the Spring semester and over Spring break. 
Admission to Doctoral Candidacy
Proposal Defense
One year after passing PhD preliminary exam Proposal should contain literature review, overview of problem, and route to solution.
Qualifying Exam Semester prior to graduation Written portion covers progress on dissertation and may cover courses taken.
Dissertation Defense Final Semester Defense includes public colloquium presentation and closed oral exam.

 

Research

Statistics on paper

We have internationally recognized research programs in high-dimensional data analysis, multiple comparisons, design of experiments, biostatistics, bioinformatics, genetic statistics, Bayesian statistics and many more. Our graduates are well employed in academics and industry.

Admissions Requirements

  •  Transcripts (including courses in calculus of several variables, linear algebra, a senior or graduate level Statistics course, and a senior or graduate level mathematical analysis course)
    • Applicants with a B.S. degree can be admitted directly into the Ph.D. program.  However, prospective students that do not have an M.S. degree and do have mathematical deficiencies are encouraged to apply to the M.S. statistics program.
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resumé/CV
  • Supplemental form (accessible when applying)
  • Application Due Dates:
    • For admission with a teaching or research assistantship, applications are due February 15 (Fall entry) or October 1 (Spring entry)
    • For admission only, domestic applications are due by July 1 (Fall entry), November 1 (Spring entry)
    • For admission only, international application are due by May 1 (Fall entry), October 1 (Spring entry)

Test Scores:

  • GRE
  • TOEFL or IELTS English proficiency scores required for international applicants who are not native English speakers

Students studying in Math Learning Center

Cost & Assistance

Teaching and research assistantships are available for both M.S. and Ph.D. statistics students. Through the generosity of the Gaute Vik Family, the department is able to offer additional fellowships. Financial awards for outstanding current students are also available.

 

Cost

Assistantships and Scholarships

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