Stat 313: Research Methods

This course introduces the fundamental concepts, principles, and practices of conducting statistical research. It covers the entire research process—from formulating research questions and hypotheses, designing studies, collecting and managing data, to analyzing and interpreting results. Emphasis is placed on ethical research practices, survey and experimental design, proposal writing, and critical appraisal of statistical literature. Students will develop a research proposal using appropriate statistical tools. The course prepares students for independent or collaborative research in academic, industry, or policy settings.

Stat 111: Descriptive Statistics

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and techniques of descriptive statistics, providing a strong foundation for data-driven inquiry. Topics include basic statistical concepts, methods of data collection, and sampling techniques. Emphasis is placed on the processing, organization, and presentation of data using textual, tabular, and graphical methods. Students will compute and interpret various statistical measures including central tendency, location (e.g., percentiles and deciles), dispersion, skewness, and kurtosis. The course also covers exploratory data analysis (EDA), measures of association and correlation, and the use of rates, ratios, proportions, percentages, index numbers, and official statistical indicators. Through practical exercises and the use of statistical software, students will gain competence in summarizing and describing data for informed decision-making.

Elective: Environmental Risk Analysis

This course introduces statistical methods and modeling techniques used to assess and manage environmental risks. Emphasis is placed on identifying environmental hazards, analyzing vulnerabilities and exposures, quantifying risks using probabilistic approaches, and evaluating policy responses. Real-world case studies and hands-on data analysis will be central to this course.

GE 112: Mathematics in the Modern World

This course explores the nature of mathematics as an art and as a tool for understanding the world. It highlights the practical, intellectual, and aesthetic dimensions of mathematics and its role in modern society. Topics include the language and logic of mathematics, problem-solving and reasoning strategies, patterns and numbers, financial mathematics, linear and exponential models, basic statistics and probability, and the mathematics of voting and social choice. The course emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative literacy, and real-life applications, equipping students with the mathematical tools necessary to make informed decisions as responsible citizens in a data-driven world.

Stat 400: Thesis

This course serves as the culminating academic requirement for undergraduate students in the BS Statistics program. It provides an opportunity for students to independently design and execute a research study that demonstrates their ability to apply statistical theories, methods, and tools in solving real-world problems.