Access countless opportunities for cutting-edge research and secure coveted positions in academia, government, or industry with a PhD in Statistics from the University of Chicago.
Versatile and Foundational Program
Statistics has become a core component of research in the biological, physical, and social sciences, as well as in computer science domains such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. The massive increase in the data acquired, through scientific measurement and through web-based collection, makes the development of statistical analysis and prediction methodologies more relevant than ever.
Our graduate program prepares students to address these issues through rigorous training in scientific computation and in the theory, methodology, and applications of statistics.
Unsure if a PhD or MS in Statistics is right for you?
Research Opportunities
Collaborate with top-tier faculty on cutting-edge projects in theoretical and applied statistics. Impact a variety of fields from biophysics to public health, or artificial intelligence adoption to business and education.
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Why UChicago
#3 in the Nation
UChicago has one of the best Statistics graduate programs, consistently top-ranked by U.S. News & World Report Graduate Rankings.
Award-Winning Faculty
Faculty in UChicago's Department of Statistics have been recognized for wide-ranging achievements, illustrating the versatile applications of statistics.
Prof. Lek-Heng Lim received a 2022 Guggenheim Fellowship for introducing high-level algebra, geometry, and topology to applied mathematics. Prof. Rina Foygel Barber, a statistician known for her work in quantifying uncertainty, was awarded a 2023 MacArthur Fellowship. And Professor Emeritus Stephen Stigler won the 2023 Neumann Prize for his book Casanova's Lottery: The History of a Revolutionary Game of Chance.
Career Success
Most students receiving a doctorate proceed to faculty or postdoctoral appointments in research universities. A substantial number take positions in government or industry, such as in research groups in the government labs, in communications, in commercial pharmaceutical companies, and in banking/financial institutions.
Location
The nation’s third–largest city, Chicago is a bustling metropolis with nearly 80 distinct neighborhoods. Students enjoy the city’s famed sports arenas, internationally renowned dining scene, vibrant night life, and ubiquitous parks and beaches.
The University’s neighborhood, Hyde Park, is home to the majority of UChicago faculty and about 80 percent of our graduate students. Hyde Park is also home to many amenities and attractions, including museums, theaters, eclectic restaurants and bars, and diverse shopping.
Application Requirements
To apply, you’ll need:
- Completed Online Application – Submit through the University of Chicago’s Division of the Physical Sciences application portal.
- Transcripts – From all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation – Three letters from academic or professional references familiar with your quantitative abilities.
- Statement of Purpose – Describe your academic interests, professional goals, and motivation for pursuing the PhD in Statistics.
- Resume or CV – Highlight relevant coursework, research, or work experience.
- GRE Scores (strongly recommended) – We strongly recommend the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) General Test of all applicants. In addition, it is strongly encouraged that applicants to the doctoral program take the GRE Mathematics Subject Test.
- TOEFL or IELTS test scores – if needed to meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement
- Fee – There is non-refundable $90 fee to apply. Fee waiver eligibility and criteria.