Doctoral Program in Statistics

It develops and studies the properties of classical statistical models. Specific interests include the theory of parametric probability distributions, the development of measures of local and global influence, sampling techniques, and time series.

It develops and studies the properties of Bayesian statistical methods. Specific interests include the development of parametric and non-parametric Bayesian models.

It develops and studies the properties of statistical methods that can be used across the sciences. It develops and studies the properties of statistical methods for identifying patterns and making predictions based on large volumes of data. Specific interests include the social and biomedical sciences, and the development of statistical and machine learning techniques.

1. To hold a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree and demonstrate adequate training in Mathematics and Statistics. In case of having academic degrees of foreign origin, these must be equivalent to those mentioned above and must be legalized from the country of origin. Documents issued in countries subscribed to the Hague Apostille Convention will be received with an apostille. In the case of documents issued in countries not subscribed to the Hague Apostille Convention, they must be legalized at the Chilean Consulate of the country of origin, for their subsequent legalization and translation (when applicable) at the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. Adequate training in Mathematics and Statistics will be evaluated by the Doctoral Committee, which will consider knowledge in at least the following areas: calculus in several variables, linear algebra, and statistical methods. In exceptional cases, the Program Committee may conditionally accept applicants who do not meet these requirements.
3. To provide proof of academic and professional background that shows the applicant’s previous education and experience, in accordance with the training requirements of the program (Applicant’s curriculum vitae).
4. To submit a Written Statement of Purpose explaining the applicants’ interest in the program and their academic objectives to proceed with doctoral studies, including the commitments of dedication that they are subscribing (letter of intent stating interests and motivations).
5. To demonstrate understanding of the English language, sufficient to understand it in written form, at a level that allows them to read articles, books and access international documents and databases.  If the applicants do not have an English proficiency certificate, they must take a diagnostic exam to evaluate their language level and, if necessary, enroll in the courses offered by the Doctoral program Direction of the Office of the Vice President for Research to achieve the competencies required to obtain the academic degree of doctor.
6. At least two letters of recommendation from persons who can evaluate the applicants’ academic ability.
7. To pass an examination of relevant knowledge, prepared and evaluated by the Doctoral Committee. In exceptional cases, this requirement may be waived by the Program Committee.

In addition, students of the Doctoral program must complete other required non-credit activities and courses to obtain their doctoral degree:

• A Written Qualifying Examination. This written exam must be taken during the first-year students are enrolled in the Doctoral program. For more information about the Qualifying Examination see the Program Regulations.
• A Candidacy Examination. Students in the program must pass the Candidacy Examination to be eligible for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics. For more information about the Candidacy Examination of the Doctoral program download here.
• To perform two Annual Follow-up Activities
• Three Transversal Skills Workshops, one of which must be of an ethical nature.
• Certification of English language proficiency at an advanced level (ALTE 3) with application in academic fields.
• Lead authorship on at least one scientific article under review in a mainstream journal or book.
• A research stay/internship abroad with teams working on topics related to their thesis.