Applicants to the program must hold a bachelor's degree or the equivalent. They should have strong mathematical training and skills, including coursework at least through advanced calculus and linear algebra. They must have completed at least a year-long sequence in basic probability and statistics. It is desirable, though not required for admission, that applicants have studied real and complex analysis, modern algebra, and methods of applied mathematics. In addition, applicants are expected to have proficiency in at least one computer programming language, such as C or Fortran, as well as experience with at least one statistical computing package, such as S, Minitab, JMP, or SAS. Applicants should also demonstrate, by courses of study or substantial work experience, an aptitude for and commitment to the scientific method along with a scholarly approach to the investigation of applied problems. All applicants must take the GRE General Test—a subject test is not required. GMAT is not a sufficient substitute, there are no exceptions.

Admission to Candidacy
Before admission to candidacy, the student is required to:

• Complete courses, including all core courses, and show excellent performance.
  
  
• Take and pass the written core examination.
  
  
• In addition to the qualifying examination, students must pass a second oral exam/thesis proposal.

Financial Aid
Students admitted to the PhD program typically receive a fellowship providing tuition and a stipend for four years. The students participate in the teaching and research activities of the Statistics Department.