Amherst College

What you'll study

The programme balances mathematical foundations and applied coursework. Typical topic areas include:

• Probability theory and statistical inference
• Regression, generalized linear models and multivariate analysis
• Computational statistics and data manipulation using statistical software
• Experimental design, sampling, and causal reasoning
• Electives linking statistics with other fields (e.g., economics, biology, social sciences)

Entry requirements

Admission to the Statistics major requires enrollment at the college and completion of prerequisite mathematics courses. Prospective students benefit from prior exposure to calculus; linear algebra and an introductory statistics course are commonly recommended. Departmental advising will outline any sequence or placement expectations and guide course selection.

Career prospects

Graduates enter diverse roles where quantitative and data skills are valued, such as data analyst, research assistant, statistician in public or private sectors, and roles in finance, health, education, or government. The major is also a strong foundation for graduate study in statistics, biostatistics, data science, economics, or related disciplines. Internship experience and interdisciplinary projects improve employability.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Funding options for undergraduates typically come through institutional financial aid, need‑based scholarships, and external awards. Students in the programme can seek research or internship funding, departmental prizes or summer research grants, and competitive external scholarships to support study and professional development. Prospective applicants should consult the college financial aid office and departmental advisors for available resources and application guidance.