By: Courtesy of Vault
Statisticians use mathematical theories to collect and interpret information. This information is used to help various agencies, industries, and researchers determine the best ways to produce results in their work. There are approximately 29,870 statisticians in the United States, employed in a wide variety of work fields, including government, industry, and scientific research.
Employment for statisticians is expected to grow by 34 percent, much faster than the average for all careers, through 2024 according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). We live in a world of data these days as a result of Internet searching and the use of social media, smartphones, and other mobile devices. Businesses and nonprofit organizations will increasingly need statisticians to organize, analyze, and sort this data. This growth will be due to more widespread use of statistical analysis to make informed business, health care, and policy decisions.
The federal government will continue to need statisticians for various agencies (for example, in Social Security, environmental protection, and demography), though competition is predicted to be high for jobs. Private industry will continue to need statisticians, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, as well as in engineering and in the physical and life sciences.
Statisticians with a master’s degree, knowledge of computer science and data analytics, and a strong background in a related discipline, such as finance, engineering, biology, or computer science, should have the best job prospects. These candidates can also teach in junior colleges and small four-year colleges. The employment outlook will also be good for those with doctorates in statistics. These individuals are eagerly sought by large corporations as consultants, and they are also in demand by colleges and universities.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Alternate Title(s) | Applied Statisticians, Biometricians, Biostatisticians, Mathematical Statisticians |
| Duties | Use mathematical theories to collect and interpret information; develop statistical models; identify and analyze trends; project future outcomes |
| Salary Range | $25,000 to $100,000+ |
| Work Environment | Primarily Indoors |
| Best Geographical Location(s) | Opportunities are available throughout the country, but are best in large, urban areas |
| Minimum Education Level |
|
| School Subjects |
|
| Experience | Internship |
| Personality Traits |
|
| Skills |
|
| Certification or Licensing | Recommended |
| Special Requirements | None |
| Employment Prospects |  Good |
| Advancement Prospects |  Fair |
| Outlook | Much Faster than the Average |
| Career Ladder |
|