Program Description:
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers several programs leading to a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or statistics. The Bachelor of Science in mathematics program offers four concentrations: pure mathematics, applied mathematics, computing, and mathematics education. These four programs as well as the Bachelor of Science in Statistics program are adaptable to many post-graduation goals, ranging from various scientific or professional careers to graduate school. The Bachelor of Arts program provides a broad background in mathematics with a liberal arts orientation.
Statistics:
Statistics is distinct from mathematics as a field of study, yet is founded upon the theory of probability - the mathematics of chance. The Bachelor of Science in Statistics is a degree program emphasizing statistics both as a science unto itself and as a service science, with powerful applications in such disciplines as biology, medicine, sociology, chemistry, agriculture, education, engineering, economics, psychology, and quality control.
The Bachelor of Science in Statistics features required courses in mathematics (calculus, linear algebra) and in statistics (applied statistics, theory of statistics, statistical methods). Advanced electives in statistics or mathematics are selected from an extensive menu of choices (e.g., experimental design for students interested in the “real-world” use of statistics, or real variables for those preparing for graduate study in theoretical statistics). In addition, students take several courses in a discipline in which statistics can be applied; biology, engineering, management, and psychology are just some of the many possibilities.
Career Opportunities:
Graduates of this program should be well qualified for employment in the many corporations and government agencies for which statisticians design experiments, conduct surveys, and analyze data. Also, the Bachelor of Science in Statistics prepares students for graduate study in statistics (or in a science in which statistics plays a decisive role), after which one has even greater employment possibilities.
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