The probabilistic stability of a laminated composite plate is investigated. Three different models are considered in this study, namely, the classical laminated plate theory, a first-order shear deformation theory, and a higher-order shear deformation theory. The probabilistic characteristics, such as the probability density and cumulative distribution functions for the resistance to buckling of the plate are obtained by employing the first-order second-moment method of reliability analysis. Uncertainties associated with material mechanical properties and fiber orientations of individual layers are modeled as statistically independent random variables. Numerical results are presented for rectangular simply-supported laminates, showing the effects of thickness ratio, stacking sequence, and number of layers on the probabilistic stability of the plates. / Master of Science