Statistics

The Department of Statistics is a global leader in formulation, analysis, and application of statistical and probabilistic methodologies. The department’s primary goals are to acquaint students with the critical roles played by probabilistic and statistical ideas in science and technology, to provide rigorous instruction in both theory and practical application, and to train first-rate research scholars in probability and mathematical statistics.

With a curriculum designed for general students as well as those pursuing targeted careers in business, government, industry, and academia, the department serves as a vital quantitative hub for the Stanford community. We actively foster a global academic environment, regularly hosting international visiting scholars whose diverse research interests enrich our active seminar culture.

Academic Programs and Quantitative Training

The Department of Statistics offers a range of minor, major, and graduate degree pathways designed to build deep analytical, computational, and statistical mastery:

• Undergraduate Minor in Statistics: Providing students majoring in other fields with a structured foundation in statistical methodology and probability theory.

• Data Science Program (Major and Minor): An interdisciplinary program administered directly by the Department of Statistics. It delivers core training in computing, mathematics, operations research, and statistics, offering students opportunities for deep specialization.

• Graduate Programs (M.S. and Ph.D.): Advanced graduate pathways leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Statistics. The M.S. program emphasizes advanced statistical knowledge and applied skills, while the Ph.D. program focuses on original research. Both prepare graduates for careers in industry, government, and academia.

• Applied Service Coursework: Offering dedicated service courses designed for non-majors that emphasize the practical application of statistical techniques to diverse disciplines rather than theoretical derivations.

Research Frontiers and Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Statistical theory at Stanford is deeply integrated with real-world applications. The department promotes research collaboration across the university through joint faculty appointments and participation in key interdisciplinary programs:

• Scientific and Medical Liaisons: Partnering with pioneering fields such as Biomedical Data Science, Bio-X, the Center for Computational, Evolutionary and Human Genomics, Genetics, and Medicine.

• Theoretical and Computational Partnerships: Collaborating closely with Computer Science, Data Science, Economics, Education, Electrical Engineering, Earth System Science, Mathematics, and Mathematical and Computational Finance.

• Specialized Research Workshops: Hosting dedicated, collaborative workshops focusing on statistical applications in biology, medicine, and environmental factors in public health.