Obtain a bachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics or computer science from an accredited college or university. Regardless of which degree you obtain, check with each Ph.D. program to which you are applying to see exactly how many prerequisite courses you need to complete. For instance, the University of Pittsburgh requires three semesters of calculus, one year of mathematical statistics, one course in linear algebra and a semester of advanced calculus.
Determine what field of research you plan to pursue within the discipline of statistics. This will largely determine where you pursue your Ph.D. Find scholars who conduct research similar to what you wish to pursue and contact them to discuss their research. Ensure that they are currently advising Ph.D. students; some professors do not. Get to know them as much as possible. This can help ensure your entry into the Ph.D. program because they will be familiar with you and the type of research you intend to pursue.
Submit your applications for admission to as many Ph.D. programs as possible. Most programs will require that you submit an application with an application fee, letters of recommendation, official transcripts and a statement of intent. Some schools may also require GRE scores, but some do not. Ensure that you have fully completed all of the application requirements prior to the application deadline.
Complete your graduate coursework in statistics. Most programs allow you to complete your coursework in about two years of full-time study. Courses typically include areas like statistical theory, asymptotic methods, probability theory and linear models theory. Once you complete your coursework, you can complete your comprehensive examination. The comprehensive exam is typically an oral examination that can test you over any area in your field.
Complete your doctoral dissertation. A dissertation is an original piece of research that advances scholarly knowledge in the field. Once you complete your dissertation, you will be expected to give an oral defense before you are awarded the Ph.D.