mustard

I got my BS in Neuroscience with pre-med concentration 1 year ago (GPA 3.70), and since then, I have been working as a research assistant and planning to apply to medical school. However, after working with data and SPSS at my research job, I have realized that a career in applied math/statistics is more suited to my talents and interests. I have always loved math, and my friends and family have always encouraged me to go into math - and after going back and forth for several years, I have finally decided to pursue it. The problem is that I have only had 1 year of calculus and 1 semester of algebra-based statistics. Granted, I have taken math-heavy courses like physics and general chemistry, but other than that, my math background is basically non-existent. But it seems like all the programs out there require a strong math background (understandably). However, some of the pre-reqs vary from school to school. Does anyone have any suggestions on what pre-reqs to take? If I start taking pre-reqs this year, could I apply by this winter for the entering class of Fall 2013? Also, I know there are several sub-fields of applied math/statistics. How do you know which one is for you? I have done some data analysis at my job using SPSS, and I have enjoyed using clinical data for inductive reasoning, although I’m not sure I want to go into biostatistics… I’d rather have a broad degree and have a variety of options for industry or academia. I know there’s a strong programming aspect to statistics, which I know I would enjoy as well. Do most statistics programs emphasize programming as part of the curriculum? Also, what are the job prospects and expected starting salary for a PhD in Statistics? Finally, what are stipends/tuition like? I’m already in my late 20s, and I have mounds of student debt as it is… I’d like to be able to refrain from adding to it. Thanks in advance for your help!