College of Business

Applied Statistics (Ph.D.)

College of Business

Applied Statistics (Ph.D.)

Lead the Future of Data Science — Earn Your Ph.D. in Applied Statistics

NMSU’s Ph.D. in Applied Statistics is designed for scholars and data-driven leaders ready to tackle complex research questions and elevate statistical practice. This doctoral program emphasizes applied statistical methods across disciplines and prepares graduates to teach, publish, develop grant proposals, and solve intricate data problems in collaborative research environments. You’ll engage with real data in public health, agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, and other applied domains—while building advanced methodological expertise.

Learn more about the experience
Quick Facts

Admission Deadlines

Fall Admission: February 15 Spring Admission: October 1


  • Total course hours: 70
  • Total dissertation credits: 18

Delivery Format

In-person

Career Pathways

Holding a Ph.D. in Applied Statistics from NMSU opens doors to transformational roles where high-level analytic leadership meets strategic research. Possible career trajectories include:

  • University professor or principal investigator in statistics or data science research
  • Senior research scientist at national labs, government agencies or large corporations
  • Director of data analytics or chief quantitative officer in business, finance, or tech
  • Lead consultant for large-scale research projects involving complex data design and inference
  • Methodologist or project lead generating novel statistical methods, guiding policy and shaping applied research agendas
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Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Statistics? Fill out our inquiry form.

The Experience

Why choose a Ph.D., in Applied Statistics at NMSU?

Opting for NMSU’s Ph.D. in Applied Statistics means immersing yourself in a program where applied impact and methodological innovation converge. With faculty who engage in interdisciplinary collaborations and research partnerships, you’ll develop the ability to execute major research initiatives and teach at the highest level. The program’s emphasis on real-world applications, consulting skills, and publication readiness ensures you’ll graduate ready to lead in academia, industry, and beyond.

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AACSB Accredited

A designation held by less than 6% of business schools in the world.

Students entering the program with a bachelor's degree, or a master's degree in a field other than statistics, will need to complete a total of 70 credit hours – 52 credit hours of coursework and 18 credit hours of dissertation research. Students entering the program with a master’s degree in statistics or biostatistics will need to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours – 18 credit hours of coursework (including 12 credits at the 600 level or higher) and 18 credit hours of dissertation research. Additional coursework may be necessary to make up for deficiencies in the student’s prior master’s degree.

Take classes like:

  • A ST 565 - Statistical Analysis
  • A ST 616 - Computational Statistics
  • A ST 509 - Statistical Models for Complex Data Structures
  • A ST 540 - Predictive Analytics
  • A ST 645 - Time Series Methods
View more courses and degree road map

GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.

Application: The application includes transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose that discusses your goals and reasons for studying statistics at NMSU.

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Scholarships and Financial Aid

At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.

Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.

NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.



Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu

Accreditation

New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.