Mathematical statistics

Statistics is the branch of mathematics that captures the interplay of data and theory. There are two important parts of statistics - the mathematical theory and the applications of this theory in the real world. Mathematical statistics is the branch of mathematics that deals with models involving a random, unpredictable component. Real world applications are many and varied, and allow the making of informed decisions in the face of uncertainty. Statistics turns numerical data into useful - even gripping - information about anything from the effect of a new cancer drug, to our economic performance, to changes in how we partner and reproduce. It allows us to make sound judgements based on evidence rather than gut feelings.

The School of Mathematical Sciences offers a comprehensive program of mathematics and statistics units at all undergraduate levels. It encompasses a wide range of areas of modern mathematics, from mathematical methods to statistics to pure mathematics, as well as demonstrating the applications of mathematics and statistics across a variety of fields. In addition to the minor, major and extended major in Mathematical statistics, a broader major and extended major is offered in Mathematics, along with specialised programs in Applied mathematics, Pure mathematics and Financial and insurance mathematics. There are cross-links between statistics and applied and pure mathematics and this is reflected in the mix of units that students can select to complete a major or extended major. Our curriculum is continuously updated to ensure that our students are exposed to the latest developments in mathematics, and acquire skills relevant to the current needs of industry.

The use of statistics is constantly expanding and a sound knowledge of the discipline is important, even for those who do not complete a major in the area. By studying Mathematical statistics at university, students will also develop general skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, modelling, scholarship, analysis and research, which can be used wherever their career may take them. Successful companies and organisations know their competitive edge depends on the analytical, quantitative and statistical skills of their workforce, and therefore seek employees with a sound mathematical training. When it comes to job opportunities, statistical skills are needed everywhere - from the sports arena and market research to finance, forensics, management consulting and medical research.

Availability

Mathematical statistics is listed in S2000 Bachelor of Science, S3001 Bachelor of Science Advanced - Global Challenges (Honours) and S3002 Bachelor of Science Advanced - Research (Honours) at Clayton as a major, extended major or minor.

Outcomes

In addition to achieving the broad outcomes of their course, students successfully completing this major or extended major will be able to:

• display basic knowledge and key technical skills in advanced calculus and linear algebra as well as high-level knowledge of and skills in the important techniques, terminology and processes of probability, statistics and stochastic processes
• develop, apply, integrate and generate knowledge through abstraction and insight, and use high-level critical thinking skills to analyse, use and interpret the mathematics that arises across a range of applications of mathematics and statistics in science, medicine, economics or engineering
• demonstrate skills in the written presentation of a mathematical argument that enable statistical concepts, processes and results to be communicated effectively to diverse audiences.