IX. Graduate Programs

Mathematics and Statistics

The objective of the graduate program is to offer opportunities for advanced studies and research in the fields of applied mathematics and applied statistics, including the interface between the two. Although the two fields within the program have different requirements in terms of specific courses and qualifying examination areas, there is a considerable degree of interaction and commonality between them, from both philosophical and practical viewpoints. Philosophically, this commonality relates to the methodology of constructing and validating models of specific real-world situations. The major areas of specialization in applied mathematics are dynamical systems, mathematical biology, numerical analysis and operations research. Applied statistics encompasses the study and application of statistical procedures to data arising from real-world problems. Much of the emphasis in this field concerns problems originally arising in a biological setting. The major areas of specialization include linear and nonlinear models; bioassay; and survival analysis, life testing and reliability.