pre-med switching to graduate degree in statistics... advice?

[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!

[DBP]

From what I've read, you'll need a lot more math background, either courses or extensive research to get into a decent applied math/statistics program. Consider the pool of people applying for these programs could be people who did entire undergrads in math, physics or engineering!

If you are certain you want a general math/stats graduate program, I'd say you need at least 3-4 upper year math courses - which can be tough, even for math students. Speak to an academic adviser from the math department to find out what courses you COULD take given your background. I also suggest you talk to a AMATH/STAT prof about what would be the bare minimum.

Also, what you learn in those courses (and in a masters in math) is VERY different from hands-on things you may have experienced. It will be useful, to give you a good theoretical understanding - but if you're looking for training opportunities to develop skills, I'd suggest you consider math-related programs.

Don't be wary of "specializing", any programs related to math/stats even if not directly will be useful for future career prospects. Once you develop skills, even in biostatistics or quantitative psychology or even economics, those are transferable.

Best of luck!

[DBP]

I just re-read your post and noticed your background in neuroscience. There's A LOT of demand for people who like math in the neurosciences.

So, with maybe one or two more courses, you have a good shot at good neurosciences programs where you can refine your skills, learn new techniques and do exciting research

Best!

[outliers1]

I live in Canada, so it might be different from what you are facing now, but here is my view on this.

Pre-reqs differ across program but typically you would need at least 3 or 4 upper year courses. To complete enough pre-reqs for admission for Winter 2013 is an aggressive schedule if you are going to school part time. This is because you will need to make sure you don't need to take the pre-reqs for your pre-reqs (i.e. permission to skip 2nd or 3rd years courses). Also, you would want good marks.

I'm in a very similar situation with you. I have a bachelors degree in biology from a Uni in Canada and found myself working with clinical data as my 1st job since graduation.

With biostats or any data analysis job in medical research, it seems that in order to advance in your career you would most definitely need at least a masters in math/stats (probably even more competitive in the US)

Now, I just started taking pre-reqs at a local uni as a part time student to prepare myself. Hopefully I can apply for a masters program in 2013. Again, this is for Canada, so it might not be reflective of what your situation.

Best of luck!

[Takoyaki7]

you should have at least 3 semesters of calculus, 1 semester of linear algebra and preferably 1 semester of real analysis. without these, you'll fail the first-year courses in any program worth anything.

a phd in stats/biostats is a lot more theoretical than an introductory or "applied" course would suggest. before applying for phd programs, I HIGHLY recommend figuring out why a ma/ms isn't enough.

[cyberwulf]

It sounds like you're well suited to biostatistics. Virtually all programs in the discipline require three semesters of Calculus (up to multivariable) and one semester of Linear Algebra; some additionally require an undergraduate mathematical statistics course, and/or a semester of real analysis. If you do solidly in the pre-reqs, and your undergrad is from a decent institution, you'll be in the discussion for admission to most biostat PhD programs. You don't need a Masters in math/stats, and research experience isn't essential.

Biostat isn't terribly limiting as a discipline; graduates go on jobs as diverse as faculty in theoretical statistics departments to working as applied research statisticians in the private sector.