Bachelor of Science in Statistics

Options for the Bachelor of Science Degree

Statistics majors may choose among several options. These options provide guidelines to help students determine a particular focus for their undergraduate studies. More information about our options can be found at: https://bulletins.psu.edu/undergraduate/colleges/eberly-science/statistics-bs/#suggestedacademicplantext.

Actuarial Option

An actuarial science background can provide students with excellent career opportunities. Actuaries work in a variety of fields including insurance companies, healthcare, consulting firms, and federal agencies.  More information about becoming an actuary can be found at the Society of Actuaries.

Applied Option

College graduates with statistical and analytical skills are highly sought after for positions in business, industry, and government. This option focuses on developing proficiency in analytical methods applicable to real-world problems. A minor or second major in a non-mathematical field is required to complement the student's statistical knowledge base with another discipline.

Biostatistics Option

This option focuses on biostatistics, the application of statistical methods to a wide range of important subject areas related to biology, medicine, and public health.  More information about careers in biostatistics can be found at The International Biometric Society.

Computing Option

Data sets are larger and more complex than ever before, and statistical and mathematical models continue to become more sophisticated. Computing is, therefore, a central skill for modern statisticians. This option focuses on developing these computational skills.

Graduate Studies Option

This option requires additional mathematics courses that are important for advanced study in statistics, with the goal of a research career in statistics.