Statistics

lecture hall with students
Embark on a journey of discovery and mastery with our PhD and MS programs in Statistics, where rigorous training and cutting-edge research converge to cultivate the next generation of statistical pioneers. Elevate your expertise and make impactful contributions to the ever-evolving world of data analytics. Apply today to ignite your passion for numbers and unleash your potential in statistical science.
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If you are still undecided about whether to apply for a Graduate Program in Statistics at Iowa State University (ISU), know that Statisticians and Data Scientists are some of the best jobs, the Graduate Program in Statistics at ISU is one of the top-ranked programs in the country where exciting research is occurring, and that life in Ames is small-town America with all the amenities a large, research university provides. The Department of Statistics offers two main degrees: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Science (MS). In addition, some students enroll in a Co-Major PhD where their degree is combined with Statistics and another field. If you are already enrolled in another graduate program at ISU, then you may be interested in this Co-Major PhD, but you may also be interested in the PhD Minor or MS Minor, depending on what degree you are obtaining in your other program.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.3 years (Methods)

Department of Statistics

statistics@iastate.edu
5152943440

Learning Goals

Learning Goals:

  • Learning Goals: Master of Science in Statistics
  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of fundamental statistical methods and the theoretical results on which those methods are based.
  • Apply knowledge of statistical methods, computing, and theory in the analysis of data.
  • Conduct supervised investigation into one or more topics in statistics that are extensions of or not covered in the required curriculum for the MS degree.
  • Present the results of investigation into statistical topics in a clear and understandable manner, both written and orally.
  • Learning Goals: Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics
  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of advanced statistical methods and theory, including probability, mathematical statistics, and the construction of probability-based models for complex data structures
  • Demonstrate the ability to formulate statistical questions on the basis of objectives in substantive scientific investigations, and the ability to compute the quantities needed to bring statistical theory and methods to bear on those questions.
  • Conduct original research into one or more specific areas of statistical science that is of sufficient depth to merit publication in a statistical or scientific journal
  • Demonstrate understanding of the scholarly literature in the area of dissertation research.
  • Demonstrate the ability to communicate research results to scientists and other researchers in both written and oral formats.

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: If you have graduated or will graduate (bachelor's degree or higher) from a university in the U.S. or another country where English is the only official language, you do NOT need to submit an English proficiency exam score (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS). Your diploma will serve as a waiver if you are admitted.
  • Any supplemental documents (CV/resume, Statement of Purpose over 500 words, etc.) may be uploaded as a PDF via the online application system. We do not require a CV but it can be very helpful for the admissions committee. If your Statement of Purpose is longer than 500 words, you may upload a PDF to your application and type "please see uploaded SOP" in the field on the application. The committee would still appreciate it if you can keep it concise.
  • Please do NOT mail paper copies of your transcripts, exam scores, or anything else to the Department of Statistics. Order exam scores electronically from ETS to be sent to our Office of Admissions (ISU's ETS code is 6306). You should still upload relevant copies of documents to your application.
  • Please contact us directly if you have questions about admission during spring or summer semester, which is not generally possible except in very specific circumstances.
  • The distance M.S. program was discontinued in fall semester 2016. We are no longer admitting students to the online M.S. program.
  • Three reference letters are required.
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 570
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 88
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 59
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

MS & PhD: January 15 for fall term, for priority consideration for assistantships. Spring admission is rare and on a case-by-case basis. You should contact our DOGE if you are interested in joining the program in the spring semester.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions