What does a statistician do?
Statisticians collect and analyse data to answer questions in health, government, business and science. They design surveys and experiments and make sure conclusions are sound.
Salary
These are approximate UK figures for guidance only, not guaranteed salaries. Pay varies by employer, location and experience. Approximate. Check the National Careers Service, Prospects and job adverts for current figures.
How do you become a statistician?
- A levels including maths
- Maths, statistics or highly numerate degree
- Optional Master's in statistics
- Statistician
A degree with significant statistics content is usual. Government and some employers offer data and statistics apprenticeships.
Routes vary. Always check entry requirements with course providers, employers and the relevant professional body.
Do you need a degree?
Usually required
Main routes in: A levels, Degree, Postgraduate degree, Apprenticeship.
Useful subjects
- Maths
- Further maths
- Computing
Skills you'll need
- Statistical methods
- R or Python
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Attention to detail
Where could you work?
- Government statistics
- Healthcare and pharma
- Market research
- Universities
What is the work like?
Computer-based analysis using statistical software, plus writing and presenting findings.
Career progression
Progress to senior or principal statistician, lead analyst or head of statistics.
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Written by the STEMLaunch Editorial Team. Last updated 2026-10-05. General careers information only; check details with official sources such as the National Careers Service, NHS Careers, UCAS and professional bodies.