Major and minor
Statisticians seek to survey representative samples of individuals to make inferences about entire populations. Whether estimating the extent of a pest infestation in an agricultural crop or predicting the outcome of a presidential election, statisticians use scientific methods to make generalizations in practical applications. As a statistics major, students will learn of the relevant applications of statistics in the modern world, applying their skills and knowledge to fields such as biological science, agricultural science, and computer science.
Real World Outcomes
Statistics graduates from UC Davis find that their knowledge is applicable to a wide array of fields, including biological sciences, business and engineering. In a 2020 survey of best colleges for earning potential, our statistics graduates ranked No. 15 nationwide for median early-career salary. Graduates have found careers in data and policy analysis in government, financial management, quality control, insurance and health care industry, actuarial work, engineering, public health, biological research and education. Others have entered graduate study in statistics and in economics, medicine and other professional schools.
Requirements
Students begin with preparatory work in statistics, calculus, linear algebra, computer science and later focus their studies on one of five emphases call tracks. All five tracks provide students with in-depth exposure to quantitative reasoning, statistical methodologies and their applications. The flexible Applied Statistics track facilitates extensive elective coursework in fields to which statistics is applied — students may receive either an A.B. or B.S. degree. The General Statistics track emphasizes statistical theory, providing foundation for advanced studies. The Machine Learning track and the Statistical Data Science track both emphasize data handling skills and statistical computation, with the first geared toward industry techniques and the second in methodology. The final track, Computational Statistics, will be discontinued beginning Fall 2025. Students matriculating to UC Davis Fall 2025 or later will not be able to pursue this track.
