Applied Probability and Statistics

(Minor 30)

Degree program: Bachelor of Science Faculty of Science
(2021)

General description

The importance of quantitative and in particular statistical methods is increasing in many domains of science. Growing complexity of scientific problems induces the need for the development of new and appropriate statistical methods. Current challenges include for example:

  • ecology: biodiversity quantification
  • infectious disease epidemiology: outbreak detection
  • financial mathematics: valuation of stock options
  • industrial engineering: stochastic optimization
  • genomics: personalized medicine

For an appropriate approach to the solution of these challenges a multitude of statistical techniques are to be mastered by today's scientists

  • regression for correlated data
  • handling of missing values
  • analysis of event time and longitudinal data
  • methods of model selection and validation

The courses of the minor degree program in Applied Probability and Statistics will not treat all of these methods in detail but provide the participants nevertheless with a solid basis in probability and statistics. The minor degree program is attractive for all students interested in stochastic methods and modeling.

Admission requirements

The minor study program in Applied Probability and Statistics requires basic knowledge in analysis and probability/statistics corresponding to the contents of the modules 'MAT182 Analysis für die Naturwissenschaften' and 'MAT183 Stochastik für die Naturwissenschaften' or equivalent.

Educational goals

A minor study program in Applied Probability and Statistics provides students with an enhanced background in probability and statistics and a practical training in many fundamental and modern methods of applied probability and statistics. Classes are interactive and the methodology is illustrated using the free programming language R. Graduates of the minor study program are able to

  • understand and interpret statistical analyses
  • plan, conduct and convey their own experiments and analyses.
  • to recognize a situation where their own skills are not sufficient anymore and the help of an external expert is necessary

ECTS credits

30 ECTS Credits

Program structure

The minor study program in Applied Probability and Statistics includes in total compulsory modules for 20 ECTS credits. Those are supplemented with elective modules for 10 ECTS credits. Elective modules can be chosen from all modules containing quantitative, program relevant subjects conditional on the approval of the program coordinator. It is recommended to establish a study plan with the program coordinator. The modules of the minor study program are in general compatible with the major study programs of the Faculty of Science.

Major/minor subject combinations

A minor study program in Applied Probability and Statistics can not be combined with a
major study program in Mathematics.

Examination and assessment regulations

The student's achievement is assessed at the end of each module.
Achievements are graded on a scale from 1 to 6, whereby 6 denotes the highest grade of achievement and 1 the lowest. A grade below 4 is insufficient.
Achievements can also be graded with 'passed' or 'failed'.

Language of instruction

German, English