Current and future-looking students of statistics,

I am thrilled to share some exciting news from the realm of statistics that underscores the growing importance and demand for statistical expertise in the workforce. According to a recent economic news release from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field of statistics is soaring as the 9th fastest-growing occupation from 2014 to 2024. This is fantastic news for those considering a career in this dynamic and evolving field.  The BLS report highlights the increasing need for skilled statisticians across various industries. As our world becomes more data-driven, the ability to analyze and interpret data is in high demand. This trend not only reflects the significance of statistics in contemporary society but also presents a myriad of opportunities for those with a passion for numbers and a knack for uncovering meaningful insights.

But that's not all – fast forward to the next decade, and the outlook for statisticians becomes even more promising. In a recent report predicting the occupational outlook from 2022 to 2032, data scientists are ranked 3rd, and statisticians follow closely behind at 4th place (with epidemiologists at 7th and actuaries at 12th). This indicates a sustained and robust growth trajectory for careers in statistics, reaffirming its status as a field with substantial and enduring relevance.

The implications of these findings are clear: the study of statistics is not just academically rewarding but also promises a career path with incredible growth potential. Whether you're an undergraduate exploring majors or a graduate student considering advanced studies, statistics opens doors to a wide range of exciting opportunities.

At the University of New Mexico's Department of Mathematics and Statistics, we are committed to providing students with a top-notch education in this thriving field. Our programs are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a data-centric world. Join us in the exploration of statistical methodologies, data analysis, and the practical application of mathematical principles.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a field that is not only intellectually stimulating but also offers a bright and promising future, consider statistics. The numbers speak for themselves – quite literally! We invite you to be a part of this exciting journey as we delve into the fascinating world of statistics.

Erik Erhardt
Professor of Statistics

Data included below in case original linked pages change.

Link 1: https://www.bls.gov/news.release/ecopro.t05.htm

Table 5. Fastest growing occupations, 2014-24

Table 5. Fastest growing occupations, 2014-24
(Numbers in thousands)
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                                          |       Employment      | Change, 2014-24   |              |                                    
               Occupation                 | ------------------------------------------| Median annual| Typical education needed for entry 
                                          |    2014   |    2024   |  Number |  Percent|   wage, 2014 |                                    
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total, all occupations                    | 150,539.9 | 160,328.8 | 9,788.9 |    6.5  |    $35,540   |              —                     
 Wind turbine service technicians         |       4.4 |       9.2 |     4.8 |  108.0  |     48,800   | Some college, no degree            
 Occupational therapy assistants          |      33.0 |      47.1 |    14.1 |   42.7  |     56,950   | Associate's degree                 
 Physical therapist assistants            |      78.7 |     110.7 |    31.9 |   40.6  |     54,410   | Associate's degree                 
 Physical therapist aides                 |      50.0 |      69.5 |    19.5 |   39.0  |     24,650   | High school diploma or equivalent  
 Home health aides                        |     913.5 |   1,261.9 |   348.4 |   38.1  |     21,380   | No formal educational credential   
 Commercial divers                        |       4.4 |       6.0 |     1.6 |   36.9  |     45,890   | Postsecondary nondegree award      
 Nurse practitioners                      |     126.9 |     171.7 |    44.7 |   35.2  |     95,350   | Master's degree                    
 Physical therapists                      |     210.9 |     282.7 |    71.8 |   34.0  |     82,390   | Doctoral or professional degree    
*Statisticians      ********              |      30.0 |      40.1 |    10.1 |   33.8  |     79,990   | Master's degree            ********
 Ambulance drivers and attendants, except |           |           |         |         |              |                                    
  emergency medical technicians           |      19.6 |      26.1 |     6.5 |   33.0  |     24,080   | High school diploma or equivalent  
 Occupational therapy aides               |       8.8 |      11.6 |     2.7 |   30.6  |     26,550   | High school diploma or equivalent  
 Physician assistants                     |      94.4 |     123.2 |    28.7 |   30.4  |     95,820   | Master's degree                    
 Operations research analysts             |      91.3 |     118.9 |    27.6 |   30.2  |     76,660   | Bachelor's degree                  
 Personal financial advisors              |     249.4 |     323.2 |    73.9 |   29.6  |     81,060   | Bachelor's degree                  
 Cartographers and photogrammetrists      |      12.3 |      15.9 |     3.6 |   29.3  |     60,930   | Bachelor's degree                  
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  Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Link 2: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/fastest-growing.htm

Fastest growing occupations: 20 occupations with the highest projected percent change of employment between 2022-32.

Click on an occupation name to see the full occupational profile.