Become a statistician

Find out how to become a statistician with a math major and enjoy a rewarding career.

Introduction to the field

Statistician use their math background to a great extent to collect, study, and analyze data.

The first step usually involves implementing a plan and conduct surveys and research.

They decide where and how to gather the data. They must determine the type and size of a sample to be studied.

In the last step, they will then develop tables and different types of graphs that can be used to look for trends and make predictions. 

The challenge to become a statistician and working as a statistician

To have the title, you will need a strong background in mathematics, engineering, or computer science. Furthermore, if you are that qualified and that good, you will have a great chance to work for the government.

Keep in mind that it is not enough just to be good to succeed in this field!

It is important also to have also good communication skills, good understanding of business and the economy, and the ability to explain everything to those who do not know much in that field.

These skills will make you very attractive to any industry. If you have only a bachelor's degree and you find job in engineering, economy, biology, you may not be called with the title.

Getting the job as a statistician

Employers are mostly looking for folks with an advanced degree in mathematics or statistics. However, you can get the job with a bachelor's degree in math provided that you have taken many statistics courses.

If you want to work for the government, you will need to fulfill strict requirements, especially if you want to work in the United States.

I once tried to become a statistician. I believe they asked for a minimum of at least 2 courses or 6 semester hours in statistics and 3 other courses or 9 semester hours in mathematics as far as I can remember.

A solid knowledge of business and management will also make you look very attractive.