Southern Methodist University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational mathematics and probability with applied statistical methods and computing tailored to life‑science problems. Core topics typically include calculus and linear algebra, probability theory, mathematical statistics, statistical inference and regression models. Applied and biostatistics‑focused modules cover experimental design, survival analysis, longitudinal data, categorical data analysis, clinical trials methodology, and introductory bioinformatics.

Students also take practical computing and data courses that use languages and tools common in the field (for example R and Python), and learn reproducible research practices, data management and data visualisation. The curriculum commonly includes a capstone experience such as a senior project or internship, plus elective options in epidemiology, molecular biology for quantitative scientists, machine learning, and advanced computational statistics.

Entry requirements

Admission to Southern Methodist University is competitive. Successful applicants to the statistics degree typically present strong preparation in secondary school mathematics (including algebra, precalculus and preferably calculus), and good overall academic achievement. Applicants normally submit a personal statement and at least one academic reference; standardised tests may be optional depending on the university's current policies.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent qualification where required. Mature applicants and those with prior college study will be considered on the basis of post‑secondary academic records and supporting materials. Some advanced standing or credit may be awarded for recognised college‑level mathematics or statistics completed before matriculation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a statistics degree and biostatistics interest are prepared for roles such as junior biostatistician, clinical trials analyst, data analyst in life sciences, research assistant in public health or laboratory settings, and data scientist positions in healthcare organisations. Common employers include hospitals, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, public‑health agencies, contract research organisations and academic research labs.

Many students also go on to postgraduate study (master’s or PhD) in biostatistics, statistics, epidemiology or related disciplines; the undergraduate degree provides the quantitative and computational foundation expected by graduate programmes.

Why study at Southern Methodist University

SMU offers small class sizes and accessible faculty, which is valuable for a quantitative major that benefits from close mentoring and research supervision. The university’s location in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex gives undergraduate students proximity to a large healthcare and biotechnology ecosystem, providing internship and collaboration opportunities with hospitals, research institutes and industry employers.

Undergraduates in statistics can draw on interdisciplinary resources across biological sciences, computer science and economics, and can take advantage of career services and research programmes to build practical experience. The programme emphasises both theoretical understanding and applied computing skills, preparing students for immediate employment or further study in biostatistics and related fields.