FAQ
Statistician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a statistician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a statistician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about statisticians
Do statisticians need a master’s?
Usually.
Is the field growing?
Yes, BLS projects much faster than average growth.
Can statisticians work remotely?
Many do.
How much does a statistician make?
The median annual wage for statisticians was $105,650 ($50.79 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $64,000 and the highest 10% earned more than $174,050.
How long does it take to become a statistician?
Most people need about 2 years after a bachelor’s of training. A master’s degree in statistics, biostatistics or a related field is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a statistician?
Yes. BLS lists a master's degree as the typical entry-level education.
Is statistician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +11.0% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 1,900 openings each year. Upsides include much faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that master’s usually needed.
What skills does a statistician need?
Key technical skills include statistical methods, experimental design, r and sas, and modeling. Employers also value communication, skepticism, and attention to detail.
What certifications are available for statisticians?
Common credentials include PStat, SAS certifications, Ph.D., and CAP. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Statistician fit quiz, compare with Data Scientist, or explore Statistician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-2041 (Statisticians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Statisticians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.