Statistics (BS)

Statistics, the science of decision making under uncertainty, is one of the fastest growing professions in the United States. By understanding statistics, you can make sound decisions based on data and models of the world. The study of statistics encompasses study design and the collection, assessment and curation of data; the building of formal statistical models to capture an abstraction of reality; and the rules of probability upon which those models rest.

In Ohio State's statistics program, students will explore each of these areas in their course work. They will also develop statistical, computational and numerical skills that are applicable in fields including agriculture, business, education, science and engineering, finance, medicine, and the social sciences.

Upon completion of the statistics program, students will:

  • be proficient at exploratory data analysis using graphical and computational tools;
  • understand mathematical concepts relevant to statistical theory, and will be adept at applying these concepts to statistical models for data, such as those arising in business and the physical, biological and social sciences; 
  • be able to assess whether hypotheses are supported by data and to quantify uncertainty in parameter estimates and models; 
  • be able to develop, fit, assess and compare statistical models in a formal probabilistic framework;
  • be able to communicate the results of a statistical analysis (in both oral and written formats) in a manner appropriate to the audience.

Academic Advisors

Jim Kilburg

kilburg.3@osu.edu
(614) 292-6961
100 Denney Hall
164 Annie & John Glenn Ave.

Affiliated Departments & Centers

Possible Careers

Possible Careers

Graduates of the statistics major will be well-suited for jobs requiring statistical analyses of data and the ability to provide theoretically grounded insights. Statisticians can work in a variety of fields, including pharmacy, finance, consumer science, medicine, environmental science, agriculture, business, education,  engineering and the social sciences. Locally, Columbus companies such as Nationwide Insurance, JPMorgan Chase and Battelle Memorial Institute regularly employ Ohio State's statistician alumni.

Graduates will also be prepared for further study at the graduate level, which can lead to career opportunities in academia, government and other industries. 

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