Ph.D. Degree in Statistical Science

Requirements for Ph.D. in Statistical Science

To qualify for the Ph.D. degree in Statistical Science, the student must:

1. Satisfy all curricular requirements as specified by the university (at least 48 hours, no more than 12 of which can be in dissertation research) and by the departmental faculty. The following courses are required:

STAT 6324: Computational Statistics
STAT 6327-6328: Mathematical Statistics I and II
STAT 6336-6337: Statistical Analysis
STAT 6345: Linear Regression
STAT 6366: Statistical Consulting
STAT 6371: Probability Theory
STAT 7327: Advanced Statistical Inference

2. Pass the Comprehensive (Basic) Exams, typically at the end of the first year

3. Pass the Ph.D. Qualifying Exam which is given to assess the student’s readiness for research. This exam is typically taken during the second year.

4. Complete a minimum of three years of graduate academic work, at least one of which is in full-time residence on the campus of Southern Methodist University or at a research facility approved by the departmental faculty and the Dean of Research and Graduate Studies

5. Write and make a successful defense of the dissertation.