Departments & Programs

Statistics

Major in Statistics—B.S.

Purpose

The program leading to the B.S. in Statistics provides students with an education in the science of data and data analysis, including statistical theory, statistical computation, and practical applications. It teaches students to think critically about quantitative methodologies and prepares them for careers that involve analyzing data, including the possibility of graduate study in statistics.

Required Courses

1. Writing: Students must fulfill the writing requirements for a B.A. in the College of Arts and Sciences.

2. Foreign language: 3 credit hours at or above the second-year level (or the equivalent proficiency).

3. Arts and Humanities: Three courses.

4. Social and Historical Studies: Three courses.

5. Natural Sciences: Three courses, excluding courses in quantitative methodology (e.g., in statistics, mathematics, or computer science). These courses must be completed with a grade of C— or higher.

6. Topics course: One course.

7. Concentration requirements: The following ten courses (or their equivalents, as approved by the director of undergraduate studies) must be completed with a grade of C– or higher in each course.

  • Basic Mathematics: M211, M212 or M213, M311 (Calculus I–III). The requirement of M211 and M212 can be waived for students who attain appropriate scores on advanced placement calculus tests.
  • Mathematics for Statistics: M301 Linear Algebra and Applications or M303 Linear Algebra for Undergraduates or S303 Honors Course in Linear Algebra, M463 Introduction to Probability Theory I.
  • Statistics: S320 Introduction to Statistics, S420 Introduction to Statistical Theory, S431 and S432 Applied Linear Models I-II, S490 Statistical Consulting.

8. Concentration elective courses: At least 3 additional courses that concern the theory or practice of quantitative methodology. Ordinarily, these courses should be 400-level courses in or cross-listed with Statistics. Courses that are not cross-listed with Statistics must be approved by the director of undergraduate studies.

9. Computer proficiency: Reasonable proficiency in computer programming demonstrated by earning a grade of at least a C– in CSCI-A 201, MATH-M 371, or an appropriate substitute approved by the director of undergraduate studies.

Students must also complete the degree requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences.