Mathematics: Statistics

Master the power of data and launch a rewarding, high-impact career in a fast-growing field with a Master of Arts in mathematics with a specialization in statistics from Bowling Green State University.

This degree program isn’t just about crunching numbers. It’s about using mathematical thinking to make sense of complex information and guide real-world outcomes. At BGSU, we’re proud to offer one of the top mathematics and statistics masters programs in the Midwest.

Dive deep into mathematical statistics. Focus on the rigorous theory that supports statistical methods while building advanced problem-solving skills that today’s employers demand.

Applied statistics focuses on using existing statistical techniques to analyze data. Mathematical statistics explores the theoretical foundations behind those methods. It’s about understanding why statistical tools work, not just how to use them. BGSU gives you the comprehensive mathematical insights to confidently design, test and validate new models – skills that set you apart in industries that are both lucrative and expanding.

The statistics specialization of the mathematics M.A. is designed for students interested in roles such as data analyst, statistical consultant or quality control specialist across industries like healthcare, finance, government and technology – without the need for further study. It’s also ideal for those planning to pursue a doctoral degree in statistics.

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Program highlights

Expert faculty mentorship. Learn from accomplished professors with extensive research and industry experience. Small class sizes help ensure student success.
Hands-on experience. Engage in applied statistics research projects that broaden your knowledge and experience. Land a graduate assistantship; Department of Mathematics and Statistics funds approximately 55 GAs, with 20 openings annually. Peer mentoring is available for new graduate teaching assistants.
Career connections. Our department’s close ties to industry, government and academic partners can open doors for students to coveted internships, research opportunities and job placement.
Flexible graduate pathways. The statistics specialization of the mathematics M.A. program may serve as a terminal degree or lead to further study toward a Ph.D. in statistics. BGSU prepares you for both. We also offer two additional specializations – one in pure mathematics and another in applied mathematics (scientific computation).

Demand for mathematicians and statisticians is expected to increase 11% over the next decade – far faster than average.

– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Career opportunities

BGSU graduates have an undeniable edge with a degree from one of the best masters programs in statistics and mathematics in the Midwest.

Data is everywhere, but real insight is rare. Organizations are in dire need of professionals who can do more than process numbers as the demand for mathematical statistics expertise skyrockets. They’re racing to hire experts who can build models, challenge the status quo and uncover bold solutions. With this master’s in statistics specialization, you’ll develop the skills to lead in a world that depends on data.

Graduates launch careers as biostatisticians at pharmaceutical companies, financial analysts in actuarial sciences and teachers in statistics.

In healthcare, math statisticians may improve patient outcomes by identifying patterns, risk factors and treatment plans.
In technology and data science, they may develop algorithms, drive machine-learning models and extract actionable insights from big data.
In government, they may shape policy through data-driven research and ensure effective program evaluations.
In environmental sciences, they have the skills needed to model climate patterns, assess sustainability efforts and guide environmental protection strategies.

Our alumni land jobs at top employers, such as Google, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, the Federal Reserve and more. These roles offer competitive salaries, job stability and opportunities to make a measurable impact in fast-moving industries.

Career paths

Biostatistician
Data scientist
Educator
Financial analyst
Market researcher
Quality control specialist
Policy analyst
Research scientist
Risk analyst
Statistician

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Curriculum

This comprehensive, 30-credit hour program is designed to build deep theoretical understanding alongside practical analytical proficiency. Core coursework includes a semester of real analysis and a two-semester sequence in mathematical statistics.

In addition to rigorous statistical training, the curriculum offers flexibility with elective options drawn from mathematics, statistics or scientific computation. It allows students to tailor their studies to specific career trajectories or doctoral preparation.

Culminating experience

Students must complete a master’s thesis (counting for up to six credit hours) OR comprehensive written exam in both probability/statistics and a specialized topic area.

Required courses

Sample courses

Advanced Mathematical Statistics
Bayesian Statistical Inference
Biostatistical Methods
Computational Statistics
Mathematical Statistics II
Multidimensional Statistics
Nonparametric Statistical Inference
Probability Theory
Real Analysis
Stochastic Processes

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The Master of Arts in mathematics with specialization in statistics program is part of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the BGSU College of Arts and Sciences.

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Updated: 11/25/2025 02:14PM