Statistician

What is this job like?		Back to Top

Statisticians help to design surveys and experiments. They also collect, analyze, and interpret numerical data. Some work for businesses and some work in government.

Statisticians often use samples to collect information. A sample provides information about a small group within a much larger group. They can then take what they learned about the small group and apply it to the larger group.

Statisticians decide where and how to gather data. They choose the sample size. They decide which type of survey is best to use. They tell workers who gather the data how to do their job. They process the collected data and reach conclusions about the data. They do this with the help of computer software.

Statisticians usually work regular hours in comfortable offices. Some have to travel to give advice to people, set up surveys or gather data. Others have many different duties, such as doing fieldwork. Some teach and do research.

How do you get ready?		Back to Top

Some people with only a college degree in statistics are able to get entry-level jobs as statisticians. However, additional schooling is needed for most of the jobs in this field. Research and teaching jobs, in particular, require more advanced university courses.

Statisticians often use computers so it is very important to have a good background in computers if you are interested in this field. Good speaking and writing skills are also needed. This is because statisticians must often explain their work to others who don't know much about statistics.

How much does this job pay?		Back to Top

In May 2008, statisticians had average yearly wages of $74,790.

The average starting salary offer for graduates with a bachelor's degree in statistics was $47,807 in July 2009.

How many jobs are there?		Back to Top

Statisticians held about 22,600 jobs in 2008. Many worked in Federal, State, and local government.

What about the future?		Back to Top

Average growth is expected in the number of jobs in this field through 2018. However, those with college degrees in statistics should have a good chance for jobs in other fields. This is especially true of jobs that deal with the analysis of data and forming an opinion about it.

Are there other jobs like this?		Back to Top

• Actuaries
• Civil engineers
• Computer scientists
• Economists
• Financial analysts
• Market and survey researchers
• Mathematicians
• Operations research analysts
• Personal financial advisors
• Systems analysts

Where can you find more information?		Back to Top

More BLS information about statisticians can be found in the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The Handbook also shows where to find out even more about this job.

Last Modified Date: March 19, 2010