The discipline of statistics is concerned with the processes by which data are collected and inferences are drawn from these data. Statistical methodology finds use in a wide variety of disciplines: social science, natural science, and applied sciences such as agriculture, engineering, business, and medicine. Our program is designed to produce graduates who are proficient in the current practices of statistics, and able to enter directly into positions in industry, government, or private business.
Our students receive extensive training and experience in statistical consulting in a practical hands-on manner. We encourage you to specialize by developing consulting skills in a particular subject matter area. Consulting and coursework provide valuable experience using computers and statistical software. The department’s informal atmosphere permits easy and constant contact between students, faculty, and other researchers engaged in educational, consulting, and research activities.
The program of study is built upon the strengths, experience, and interests of the ASTAT faculty, all of whom serve as consultants to faculty and graduate students in the NMSU community. You will have the skills required to help researchers outside of statistics execute data analyses, design experiments, and/or plan and analyze biological surveys or surveys obtained by mail, phone, or personal interview. Our faculty have extensive past and ongoing collaborative experience with researchers in a number of disciplines outside of statistics such as:
- Biology
- Agriculture
- Fishery and wildlife
- Psychology
- Education
- Engineering
