Welcome to Statistical Science!
The major in Statistical Science provides students with in-depth exposure to modern statistical reasoning and the science of statistical modeling and analysis. Majors develop the skills to create, analyze, and utilize statistical techniques for addressing quantitative, data-based problems in the natural and social sciences, engineering, technology, and biomedical sciences. Statistical Science majors are exposed to a broad range of statistical methods using tools from mathematical and computational sciences. Developing skills and expertise in problem articulation and solving and the ability to appreciate and accommodate uncertainty in decision-making are central goals. Students with particular interests may concentrate in Data Science or Mathematical Statistics. Graduating students are extremely well-prepared and competitive for graduate study in statistics and allied disciplines as well as careers in data science, machine learning, business, finance, law, medicine, or other fields.
Students have the option to complete an honors thesis in their senior year. This is a year-long project that students work on under the supervision of a Duke Statistical Science faculty member. These projects can involve the analysis of complex data, the development of new methods or theory, or the extension and evaluation of existing techniques.
Our Statistical Science Majors Union (check them out on Duke Groups) sponsors many useful events, such as student-only sessions about courses, panels on applying to graduate schools, and workshops on writing a cover letter for industry jobs. We strongly suggest you check them out so you're in the loop for various great opportunities. Our majors are also involved in the Duke Sports Analytics Club and the Duke Actuarial Society.
Departmental website: https://stat.duke.edu/
Advising
Students choosing a first major or IDM in the department are assigned their faculty advisor after declaration. The faculty advisor is your resource for course selection, research opportunities, graduate or professional school information, etc. Second majors are assigned to the Undergraduate Coordinator until they request a faculty advisor. Minors are assigned to the Undergraduate Coordinator. Once you have officially declared the major, minor, or IDM, please complete this form, and you will be assigned your advisor. If you prefer a particular advisor, please indicate so in that form. Note that faculty bandwidth, sabbaticals, etc. may limit particular advisors’ assignments. If you have questions about selecting an advisor, contact dus@stat.duke.edu or talk with any faculty member.
Students are expected to contact their advisors prior to the course registration period each semester to set up an appointment to discuss course selection. During these meetings, the major requirements will be reviewed in detail to ensure that students are on track for completion of the major. More detailed information is sent to students before the advising period. If you have any questions, contact dus@stat.duke.edu.
Requirements and General Information
Learn more about major and minor requirements, and general information for new majors. Students planning their pathway through the major before declaring may contact us via dus@stat.duke.edu for advice.