Program Description
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers several programs leading to a bachelor's degree in mathematics and statistics, as well as minor programs in mathematics and in statistics. Master of Science and dual major programs are also available.
The Bachelor of Science in mathematics program offers three concentrations: pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and mathematics education. These three programs as well as the Bachelor of Science in Statistics program are adaptable to many postgraduation 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.
Each mathematics major is assigned an advisor from the department faculty. As early as possible in their college career, students should consult with their advisor on the important choice of a concentration. The faculty advisor must approve all courses intended to satisfy program requirements. Students must achieve at least a 2.0 GPA in the mathematics and statistics courses numbered 3000 or higher used to satisfy degree requirements.
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.
Honors Program
Mathematics and statistics majors who have demonstrated superior ability in upper-level mathematics and statistics courses may pursue an honors program with the approval of the department. Further information is available from the departmental office.
Admission Requirements
Students must earn a C or higher in MTH 2300 (or equivalent course), have a 2.0 over-all GPA, and have completed a minimum of 16 semester hours to be accepted in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Program Learning Outcomes
Statistics majors will:
- acquire problem-solving skills in a broad range of significant mathematics and statistics;
- communicate effectively in person and in writing;
- apply mathematical and statistical concepts to problems involving uncertainty and risk;
- utilize computer software to solve mathematical problems and analyze data;
- and, for actuarial science majors, study for and pass exams required for an actuarial designation
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