Math 448: Mathematical Statistics

Prerequisites

Math 447 with a grade of C or better. Probability is the foundation of developing statistical inference. There will be a probability aptitude test (referred to as the PAT below) at the beginning of the course. Please review materials in Math 447 as early and as thoroughly as possible, especially if you took Math 447 semesters ago. Lack of aptitude in probability may increase the difficulty in the current course.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the fundamental idea of statistical inference; conduct standard inferences including point estimation, confidence interval, and hypothesis testing.
• Derive, evaluate, and compare point estimators and confidence intervals. Apply statistical inference to simple linear regression models.
• Use statistical software (R) to manipulate data, conduct simple statistical inferences, conduct simple linear regression analyses, simulate data, etc.

Required Textbook

Mathematical Statistics with Applications (7th ed.) by Wackerly, Mendenhall, and Scheaffer.

• This is the course text. Most if not all homework assignments will come from this book.
• A customized softcover version used at BU is available from the University Bookstore. The custom book and hardcover version are equivalent for this course.

Software Resources (R)

R is chosen to be the statistical software used in this course. You can learn the basics using the following resources:

• The Undergraduate Guide to R
• R Tutorial by Kelly Black

Please install R prior to the semester. RStudio is also recommended.

• Download R (UC Berkeley Mirror)
• Download RStudio

Computing Homework Links

• Computing Homework Assignments
• Computing Homework Solutions

Grading Scheme

Quiz, Homework & Computing Assignments Policy

• At the end of each class session, the instructor may administer a quiz or collect written homework.
• On each lecture day, a score between 1 to 10 will be given. A score of 1 indicates class attendance despite no work or incorrect work. A score of 0 indicates absence.
• Computing homework assignments (approx. 5–10) are submitted online and graded on a 0–10 scale.
• The lowest 5 scores across quizzes, written homework, and computing assignments will be dropped.
• No make-ups will be arranged for quizzes.

Attendance Bonus

• Up to 3 advance waivers can be granted via email without requiring a reason/proof.
• 20 bonus points: Perfect attendance (excluding waivers).
• 10 bonus points: Missed 1 session (excluding waivers).
• 5 bonus points: Missed 2 sessions (excluding waivers).

Mandatory Attendance Policy

Following University Bulletin policy, missing more than 25% of total class sessions results in an automatic grade of F.

"Instructors have the right to deny a student the privilege of taking the final examination or of receiving credit for the course... if the student misses more than 25 percent of the total class sessions."

Course Calendar

Total: 44 class sessions (41 regular + 3 exam sessions) × 1.5 hours = 66 hours.

• Feb 5: Course add and drop/delete deadline.
• Mar 24: Course withdraw/change grade option deadline.

Policies & Success Tips

Make-ups

Advance requests along with verifiable written proof are required for any test/exam make-up.

Academic Dishonesty & Discipline

Cheating will be reported to the Provost Office. Laptops, cell phones, and electronic communication devices cannot be used during quizzes, tests, or exams. Standard standalone calculators are allowed.

How to Succeed

• Read the assigned chapter once before class.
• Focus on understanding concepts and motivations rather than memorizing formulas.
• Practice probability skills regularly—they are essential for this course.
• Do not skip classes; course concepts build directly on previous material.