Online Schools for Statistics: How to Choose

Choosing an online statistics school depends upon the desired award level and the type of distance learning program. Graduate certificates and degrees in statistics are offered online, and the delivery method of course content varies between schools.

How to Choose an Online Statistics School

Award Level

Online schools offering statistics programs only grant two awards, a graduate certificate or a master's degree. A graduate certificate generally requires 12-15 credit hours and provides working professionals with an opportunity to enhance their statistical and data analysis skills with short-term training. Master's degrees in statistics can be completed in about one year and offers students advanced level coursework that prepares them for management positions in the field. Credits within a graduate certificate program can also be applied towards a master's degree.

Program Type

When selecting an online school for statistics, students should be aware of the delivery method for potential programs. Many programs use recorded lectures and content management software to deliver course materials, allowing students to access content 24/7. However, not all online programs allow students to access lectures whenever it is convenient.
Some schools have live classes online that require attendance on specific days and times; these interactive classes may also have special software or hardware requirements for participation. Additionally, to encourage student attendance and interaction, some faculty members will not allow scheduled live lectures to be recorded or posted for later viewing.

List of Online Statistics Programs

Online Certificate in Applied Statistics

Programs granting certificates in applied statistics generally require 12 credit hours. Many schools allow students to customize their courses based upon their personal and professional goals. Students can choose four courses, with topics including applied statistics, regression analysis methods, analysis of discrete data, stats in research, biostatistics, data mining and applied categorical data analysis. Statistical software requirements may apply.

Online Master of Applied Statistics

An online Master of Applied Statistics program requires between 30-36 credit hours to complete. Core courses include introduction to probability theory, analysis of variance and design experiments, mathematical statistics and regression analysis methods. Some schools also require a diagnostic exam, the completion of a project and consulting practicum courses.