Applied Statistics Minor

Applied Statistics Minor

Applied Statistics

Minor

Applied statistics is among the most inherently interdisciplinary programs in academics. Cadets pursuing this minor are given the opportunity to learn and apply statistical techniques to real-world problems across a range of disciplines.

Offered by the Department of Mathematics Sciences.

Are you curious about how data shapes the world? Do you like spotting trends, solving puzzles, or using math to make smart choices? The Applied Statistics minor at the United States Military Academy (West Point) teaches cadets how to analyze data and extract meaningful insights - skills that help leaders make better decisions on the battlefield and beyond.

What is Applied Statistics?

Applied Statistics focuses on collecting, organizing, and interpreting data to solve practical problems. Whether it’s predicting supply needs, assessing mission risks, or evaluating soldier performance, statistics provide the facts leaders rely on to plan and act effectively.

This minor complements any major and helps cadets add strong analytical and problem-solving skills to their leadership toolkit. Analyze the facts. Support the mission. Lead with data. That’s what the Applied Statistics minor at West Point is all about.

Why Choose the Applied Statistics Minor at USMA?

  1. Useful Across All Army Fields
    Whether in combat arms, intelligence, engineering, or logistics, data-driven decision-making is essential. This minor helps cadets master those skills.
  2. Enhances Any Major
    The Applied Statistics minor adds powerful analytical tools to majors like Engineering, Cyber Science, Management, or Social Sciences.
  3. Career-Boosting Skills
    Leaders who understand data analysis stand out - both in military assignments and when transitioning to civilian jobs or graduate school.
  4. Hands-On and Practical
    Cadets gain experience with modern statistical software and real-world problems, preparing them for data challenges on and off the battlefield.

What To Do With This Minor?

Adding this minor to a degree can help the cadet:

  • Support Army missions with data and analytics
  • Work in fields like business, health, technology, or government
  • Prepare for grad school in statistics, data science, or research
  • Become the person who makes smart, data-backed decisions in any field

Interested Cadets

Are you curious about how numbers and data can explain what’s going on in the world? Want to learn how to analyze information and make decisions based on facts? The Applied Statistics minor at West Point teaches you how to collect, understand, and use data to solve problems - whether on the battlefield or in everyday life.

Why Consider This Major

If a cadet likes math, problem-solving, and using data to answer important questions, the Applied Statistics minor is a great way to build valuable, in-demand skills. They will graduate with an edge in a world that relies more and more on facts and analysis - ready to lead confidently in complex situations.

What Cadets Learn

With the Applied Statistics minor, cadets study:

  • Descriptive Statistics – summarizing and visualizing data clearly
  • Probability and Statistical Inference – understanding uncertainty and making predictions
  • Regression and Modeling – identifying relationships and forecasting outcomes
  • Data Analysis with Software – using tools like R or Python to handle real data
  • Applications in Military and Operational Contexts – applying stats to Army problems

They work on real datasets and projects that mirror challenges faced by Army leaders. They also get hands-on experience with the same tools experts use in data science, business, and research.

Choice of Electives

Cadets can customize their minor with interesting courses like:

  • Introduction to Statistics – learn the basics of data analysis
  • Data Visualization – turn numbers into easy-to-understand charts and graphs
  • Applied Regression Analysis – study relationships between variables to make predictions
  • Statistical Computing – use software tools to analyze big data sets
  • Experimental Design – plan and conduct experiments that produce reliable results

Learn More

Cadets who choose this minor will have the opportunity to publish in journals like Mathematica Militaris; become a member of the Pi Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society, Alpha Zeta Chapter; and work with the Center for Data Analysis and Statistics as they conduct summer internships and research at various laboratories and agencies. 

To learn more about enrichment in this area of study, visit the Department of Mathematical Sciences or the Center for Data Analysis and Statistics.