PhD in Statistical Science

The PhD in Statistical Science represents the highest academic attainment for a statistician and, as such, requires in-depth knowledge of modern statistical methodology, theory, and practice.

The degree program is a hybrid of probability, computation, and data analysis; and students are expected to be proficient in all three. Current research areas of key department faculty in the program include biostatistics, modern statistical methodology, big data, data analytics, statistical or machine learning, applied probability, statistical networks, statistical computing, statistical imaging, bioinformatics, financial statistics, Bayesian statistics, data confidentiality, and statistics interfaced with other disciplines.

Faculty conduct research in big data analytics, biostatistics, statistical genetics, statistical graphics, data confidentiality, networking analysis, and data exploration. Full-time graduate students can apply for competitive research and teaching assistantships.

We welcome applications to our PhD program from students with a bachelor's or a master's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or a discipline with a solid training in mathematics. Check the catalog for official degree and admission requirements.

To find answers to frequently asked questions about transcripts, course requirements, and more, please take a moment to explore our FAQs page. For additional information, contact graduate studies at statgrad@gmu.edu.

Application Deadlines

Spring Deadlines:

  • Priority funding: August 15
  • Standard: October 15
  • Space-available for F1/J1: November 1
  • Space-available: December 15
  • Graduate Non-Degree Studies: January 15

Fall Deadlines:

  • Priority funding: December 1
  • Standard: March 15
  • Space-available for F1/J1: June 1
  • Space-available: July 15
  • Graduate Non-Degree Studies: August 15

Forms for PhD Students

This degree represents the highest academic attainment for a statistician. It’s the gateway to a fulfilling and lucrative career in industry, the government, or academia.

“I felt a tremendous intellectual satisfaction by completing my dissertation, and it also helped me serve as an adjunct faculty and teach graduate courses.”

— Tigran Markaryan, PhD Statistical Science ’09, Executive Vice President of Custom Analytics at MMA and an adjunct faculty member