PhD Statistics at University of Pittsburgh

Programme overview

The PhD in Statistics trains students to produce original research in theoretical statistics, applied statistics or probability. The department's research spans machine learning, data privacy, social networks, clinical trials, computational biology and neuroscience.

Faculty: Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Department of Statistics | Duration: 72 credits | Intake: Fall | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

72 credits including STAT 2631 Theory of Statistics 1, STAT 2641 Asymptotic Methods, STAT 2661 Linear Models Theory 1, STAT 2711 and 2712 Probability Theory 1 and 2, and at least 3 credits of STAT 2381 Supervised Statistical Consulting. Students pass a preliminary exam (usually summer before second year) and a comprehensive exam and defend a dissertation.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Prerequisites: three semesters of calculus, linear algebra, a year of mathematical statistics (STAT 1151-1152 equivalent) and a semester of advanced calculus (can be remediated). Deadline January 15, 2027; $75 fee; unofficial transcripts, personal statement, three recommenders. GRE recommended but not mandatory. International applicants: TOEFL new-scale 4.5 overall (4.5 speaking/reading/writing, 5.0 listening), IELTS 7.0 (6.5 per section) or Duolingo 120.

Domestic applicants: USD 27,412 a year (2026-27). Pennsylvania-resident graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

International applicants: USD 49,272 a year (2026-27). Out-of-state (non-PA resident) graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

Intake: Fall

Duration: 72 credits

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