Undergraduate Studies in Mathematics and Statistics at USM

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics.  The program is designed to provide students with a broad background in mathematics and statistics.  Students may select one of four concentrations: pure mathematics, applied mathematics/ operations research, statistics, or mathematics education.  The Department also offers a Master of Science degree in Statistics.  By carefully selecting the appropriate courses, one can complete both the Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and the Master of Science degree in Statistics in five years. 

A certificate program in applied statistics is also offered for students who wish to pursue a career in the areas of business, industry, government, or education.

The Master of Science degree in statistics offers concentrations in applied statistics, applied mathematics. operations research, and biostatistics. 

Students learn to use computer software packages such as Mathematica, MATLAB, Minitab, and SAS in their mathematics and statistics courses.  Collaborative and active learning are encouraged throughout the curriculum.

The Career

A study of mathematics requires both  inductive and deductive reasoning, critical analysis of problem solving, abstract symbolic manipulation, geometric visualization, and numerical skills.  Careers in mathematics and statistics require precision of thought and expression, and the mathematical skills needed.  Statistical techniques and other quantitative methods are needed to produce reliable data, use the correct techniques to analyze such data, and draw practical conclusions from this analysis.  A partial list of career opportunities would include fields such as Medicine, Industry, Marketing, Education, Social Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Insurance, Clinical Trials, Epidemiology, Economics, and Manufacturing.  In addition, many Federal Government Agencies, such as the Bureau of Census, Bureau of Labor, Department of National Defense, Food and Drug Administration, and Department of Justice make use of statistical techniques and other quantitative methods.

The Preparation

The suggested high school preparation is two years of algebra, one year of geometry, and a precalculus or senior-level course which includes trigonometry.

The Program