Statistics

WHAT IS STATISTICS?
Statistics combines math and problem-solving skills to aid in the collection, analysis and presentation of critical data.

It’s a Statistical World
Statistics is the science of data - the collection, management, analysis and interpretation of data. Statistics are used in virtually every professional field as a way to conduct research and make important decisions. This includes the pure sciences, such as biology, chemistry and physics, as well as engineering, business, medicine, and the social sciences (economics, political science, psychology, and sociology). Statistics is an essential tool in almost every field in undertaking research, testing and developing products, and assuring quality control. The role of the statistician is to help others analyze their data in such a way as to have confidence in the results and to make good decisions based upon the analysis. The statistician must skillfully combine technical skills, problem solving and the ability to share this information with lay clientele through effective communication.

STATISTICS AT DELAWARE
The Statistics major is a combination of theoretical and methods courses in statistics, and courses in fields of application. The core course work is designed to prepare students for advanced study in statistics by emphasizing a foundation in probability and mathematical statistics, as well as courses in statistical methods such as experimental design and regression. Students will learn the logic of statistical inference; how to design an experiment to maximize the ability to find an effect or to rule out a null hypothesis; model building for weather, the economy, or customer sales; and strategies to determine whether a drug or a program had a significant impact on a group of subjects. Majors will combine this statistical knowledge with course work in other fields to create an area of specialization that will serve as a basis for the application of statistics courses, such as in economics, biology, or business. The area of specialization could become a minor or a second major for the student.

BUILDING A STATISTICAL IMAGINATION
Our goal is to provide students the ability to apply statistical techniques to real data and real problems. We also seek to build a “statistical imagination” within our students so they can appreciate the ability of the statistician to address a range of problems in a diverse set of fields. We do this by building a firm foundation in statistical theory and practice. Then we have students expand this base by taking courses in applied statistics and data management using SAS. Finally, we have students take courses in a field where statistics can be applied in problem solving, such as economics, biology, business, or environmental science. We believe this approach provides a balance of theory and practice to enhance the learning experience for the student.

FACILITIES AND RESOURCES
The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources houses the Statistics Major, and its facilities are readily accessible to students. This includes Townsend and Worrilow halls, which sit at the center of a 350-acre research and teaching complex. These buildings contain our offices, classrooms, laboratories, library, student commons, and a modern computing site with state-of-the-art software like geographical information systems and computer aided design. The College is also home to the Stat Lab, an on-site statistical consulting site for faculty, students, and the larger business and professional communities in Delaware.

CAREER PATHS
Data Analysis. Actuarial Sciences. Survey Research. Data Management. These are a few of the careers that are possible in consulting firms, government agencies, business and industry. While entry-level positions do exist, some careers will require additional education beyond the bachelor’s degree. Graduates of the Statistics program will be qualified and competitive in fields such as statistics, economics, finance, and business. There are many opportunities for Statistics majors to develop and practice their statistical skills. These include involvement in faculty-mentored independent research projects; serving as Teaching Assistants or tutors in undergraduate Statistics courses; and working as summer interns in businesses or government agencies. We encourage all students to participate in our job-search workshops and career days, to seek internships, and to develop their communication skills. All of these things, in addition to doing well academically, will greatly enhance post-graduate opportunities.

For more information, contact:
Dr. Tom Ilvento, Chair
Department of Food & Resource Economics
University of Delaware
213 Townsend Hall
Newark, DE 19716-2103
Ilvento@udel.edu
302/831-6773