An undergraduate statistics major requires prior training in calculus of several variables and in linear algebra. Suitable prerequisites are either a) MATH 214-1,2,3, 215, and 217; b) MATH 220-1,2,3; c) MATH 290-1,2,3; or d) the equivalent. Students who expect to eventually obtain a PhD in statistics should take additional mathematics coursework. Since modern statistical work relies heavily on computers, students should also have some ability to use computers.
Students majoring in statistics take a minimum of eight statistics courses offered by the Departments of Statistics, Mathematics, or Industrial Engineering and Management Sciences. These include courses in probability, in survey and experimental research, and in various approaches to the statistical analyses of data. Details on acceptable patterns of courses for the major in statistics are available in the undergraduate catalog and from the department. The Director of Undergraduate Studies and other members of the faculty can recommend courses that are likely to be most valuable for those with particular interests.
Honors in Statistics
Departmental majors with outstanding records both overall and within the department may apply for graduation with departmental honors. A departmental recommendation for honors requires that students take two quarters of the undergraduate seminar (STAT 398), through which they develop a research paper. For more information, consult the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
