Employers prefer a sound background in computer programming and some knowledge or experience in their particular industry. A graduate degree, preferably a Ph.D., is the minimum education required for entry into many statistical positions. More applied-statistics positions are open in colleges, universities or research units of large corporations. As the work involves consulting with non statisticians, the Statisticians must get along with others and be able to express statistical ideas in non technical language. Effective communication skills are essential.
Recommendations vary on specific educational programs for students planning careers in statistics.
Undergraduates can major in statistics or mathematics and minor in the field in which they expect to use statistical training, or they can take a full undergraduate major in the field in which they plan to apply statistical training and follow with a master's or Ph.D. degree in statistics. In either case, the future Statistician should take extensive course work or a strong minor in electronic data processing theory and techniques. Many colleges and universities in California offer bachelors' and masters' degrees in statistics. Ph.D. degrees are also offered at several colleges and universities in the State. These opportunities can be actual promotions or salary increases.