CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
€45k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Joint program integrating Statistics and Machine LearningInterdisciplinary Focus
- Access to leading faculty and research opportunitiesExpert Faculty
- Prepares graduates for leadership in academia and industryCareer Preparation
- Dedicated dissertation research in Years 4+Research Focus
This unique joint Ph.D. program combines the rigorous foundations of statistics with the advanced techniques of machine learning. Designed for students who aim to lead innovation at the intersection of these fields, the program fosters interdisciplinary research and coursework. You will gain a dual perspective from leading experts across two dynamic departments, utilizing state-of-the-art resources. This program prepares graduates for impactful careers in academia, industry, and research, equipping them to solve complex data-driven challenges.
Curriculum
The program spans approximately four years, with the initial years focused on coursework and the later years dedicated to dissertation research. Students must fulfill core requirements from both the Statistics department and the Machine Learning department.
- Year 1 - Fall
- Intermediate Statistics36-705
- Regression Analysis36-707
- Statistical Computing36-750
- Statistical Immigration36-699
- Year 1 - Spring
- Advanced Statistics I36-709
- Statistical Machine Learning36-708
- Advanced Data Analysis I36-757
- Year 2 - Fall
- Advanced Introduction to Machine Learning10-715
- Advanced Data Analysis II36-758
- Year 2 - Spring
- Advanced Machine Learning: Theory and Methods10-716
- Convex Optimization10-725
- Research
- Year 3
- Thesis Proposal Preparation and Presentation
- Year 4 and beyond
- Dissertation Research
Careers
Graduates of this joint Ph.D. program are well-prepared for advanced roles in both academia and industry. The rigorous training in statistics and machine learning equips them to tackle complex data challenges and drive innovation.
- Researcher
- Data Scientist
- Machine Learning Scientist
- Statistician
- Professor
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree?
- The doctoral tuition is $52,300 per academic year. International students are responsible for tuition and living costs, with estimated living expenses around $34,018 annually.
- How long does the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree program typically take to complete?
- The program spans approximately four years, with the initial years dedicated to coursework and the later years focused on dissertation research.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- Non-native English speakers must submit a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100. TOEFL waivers are not granted.
- How do I apply for the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree program?
- Applications are submitted through the School of Computer Science online application portal. You will need to prepare transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
- When is the application deadline for the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree program?
- Applications open on September 9, 2026, for Fall 2027 admissions. The program start date is the Fall semester.
- What are the career prospects after completing this joint Ph.D. program?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Researcher, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Scientist, Statistician, or Professor in academia and industry.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeStrongly recommended in Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Biomedical Engineering. Should include college-level coursework in life sciences, statistics, and programming.
PrerequisitesCoursework in algorithms and data structures is ideal.
TOEFL iBT100
TOEFL waivers are not issued for non-native English speakers, regardless of prior study in English-speaking environments or institutions. The GRE is not required for admission.
Fees
Tuition (international)Doctoral tuition is $52,300 per academic year.
Tuition (home)Doctoral tuition is $52,300 per academic year.
LivingEstimated living expenses (housing, food, books, personal, transportation, technology, loan fees) are approximately $34,018 per academic year, excluding health insurance.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. International students are responsible for tuition and living costs. Specific fees such as Student Activities Fee, Technology Fee, and others contribute to the total cost of attendance. Health insurance cost is TBD.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, and arrange for three letters of recommendation.
2. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the application form via the School of Computer Science online portal. Ensure all required documents are uploaded.
3. Meet Program RequirementsEnsure you have completed the Ph.D. Core Requirements and the Joint Ph.D. requirements from the ML department.
4. Take English Proficiency TestIf your native language is not English, you must submit a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100. Waivers are not granted.
Scholarships
Rales Fellowship Program—
Conference Funding—
Professional Engagement Funding—
Scholarly Project Funding$750
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree?
+
The doctoral tuition is $52,300 per academic year. International students are responsible for tuition and living costs, with estimated living expenses around $34,018 annually.
How long does the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree program typically take to complete?
+
The program spans approximately four years, with the initial years dedicated to coursework and the later years focused on dissertation research.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
Non-native English speakers must submit a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100. TOEFL waivers are not granted.
How do I apply for the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree program?
+
Applications are submitted through the School of Computer Science online application portal. You will need to prepare transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
When is the application deadline for the Statistics/Machine Learning Joint Ph.D. Degree program?
+
Applications open on September 9, 2026, for Fall 2027 admissions. The program start date is the Fall semester.
What are the career prospects after completing this joint Ph.D. program?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Researcher, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Scientist, Statistician, or Professor in academia and industry.