Mathematics - Statistics

Statistics is the science and art of making inferences from data, under conditions of uncertainty. The practice of Statistics requires not only the understanding of the statistical techniques, but also understanding of the problem requiring statistical analysis, whether it is in the liberal arts, the sciences, health sciences, or business.

The Statistics sequence has an interdisciplinary component so that this program will help develop skills in the application of Statistics to a variety of disciplines.

Why Study Mathematics - Statistics?

Mathematics is one of the oldest and the most basic sciences. It's divided into two categories: Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Mathematics.

Theoretical Math is involved with advancing science by developing new principles and new relationships between existing principles of math. Applied Math uses the theories and formulates and solves practical problems in business, government, and engineering and the physical, life, and social sciences.

Related Skills

• Logical Thinker
• Strong numerical computational ability
• Ability to analyze, interpret data
• Problem solver
• Critical thinker
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Works well in teams

Being Successful in the Field

• A bachelor's degree is often sufficient for entry-level positions, but an advanced degree may open the door to more upper-level opportunities. Pair a strong background in mathematics with another technical discipline such as computer science or engineering.
• Conduct informational interviews with professionals in areas of interest to enhance knowledge and make contacts.
• Stay informed of new developments and current trends in the field.
• Gain experience through volunteering, internships, and part-time or summer jobs.
• Develop competencies in a specific area of interest.
• Supplement curriculum with courses in business, economics, computers, or statistics for increased job opportunities.
• Maintain a high grade point average.
• Build relationships with faculty for career information, contacts, and letters of recommendation.
• Join related student professional associations and seek leadership positions.

Related Fields

• Research
• Development
• Design
• Data Processing
• Testing
• Operations
• Quality Control
• Statistical Processing Control
• Environmental Analysis
• Consulting

Employers

• Industries including: Manufacturing, Transportation, Aerospace, Communications, Machinery, Electrical equipment , Pharmaceuticals, Other private industries'
• Consulting firms

Strategies

• Note that greatest demand is for applied mathematicians with skills in computerscience, electronics design and theory, statistics and probability.
• Develop computer and research skills.
• Learn to use relevant software packages.
• Earna master's degree in math, business, or related field for advanced positionsor for consulting jobs.
• Maintain excellent G.P.A. for graduate/professionalschool admission.
• Gain relevant experience through internships, volunteering, summer, or part-time jobs.
• Develop good oral and written communication skills. Learn to work well in teams.

Government

• Research
• Administration

Employers

Federal agencies including Defense, Labor, Justice, Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Transportation, Commerce, Treasury, NASA, and Library of Congress State agencies involving research and problem-solving teams

Strategies

• Become familiar with government hiring procedures.
• Make contacts through involvementin campus, local, or state politics.
• Obtain internship with local, state, or federal government.
• Join related professional organizations.
• Maintain a high grade point average.

Market Research

• Data Collection
• Information Analysis

Employers

• Market research firms
• Consumer goods manufacturing firms

Strategies

• Develop good oral and written communication skills.
• Acquire a business minor.
• Volunteer to assist a professor with research.
• Become a student member of the American Marketing Association.
• Assist with canvassing/phone interviewing for charities or political campaigns.
• Complete a market research internship.

Banking

• Branch Management
• Credit Lending
• Operations
• Systems
• Trusts

Employers

• Commercial banks
• Regional banks
• Savings and loan associations
• Credit unions

Strategies

• Complete an internship in a financial institution.
• Develop good interpersonal skills.
• Obtain a business minor.
• Develop excellent computer skills.
• Demonstrate attention to detail.
• Become the financial officer or treasurer of a campus organization.

Employers

• Public schools
• Private schools
• Colleges and universities

Strategies

• Obtain appropriate state licensure and/or certification for public school teaching positions.
• Volunteer to teach, supervise, or tutor with organizations such as Big Brother/Sister, YMCA, or churches.
• Develop excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Acquire a master's degree or Ph.D. for teaching positions at the college or university level.

Other Professions

• Actuary
• Actuary Administrator
• Aerodynamics Specialist
• Claims Adjustor
• Consumer Credit/Loan Officer
• Contract Administrator
• Cryptographer
• Database Administrator
• Educational Mathematics Specialist
• External Auditor
• Financial Investment Analyst
• Inventory Control Specialist
• Investment Banking Analyst
• Market Research Analyst
• Math Teacher
• Mathematician
• Mathematics Editor
• Operations Research Analyst
• Production Manager
• Professor
• Research Analyst
• Statistician
• Systems Analyst
• Technical Writer
• Trade Associate
• Treasury Management Specialist
• Underwriter
• Weapons Consultant
• Weapons Engineer
• Weight Analyst

Career Industry Liaison

Internship Coordinator

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!

Minimum GPA

2.00

Middle 50% GPA

3.40 - 3.80

Required Courses

Require grades of "C" or better in:

• Calculus I (MAT 145) and
• Calculus II (MAT 146)

Recommended Courses

To find the course equivalencies at an Illinois community college, please review our Course Articulation Guides.

Students with 60 or more credit hours are recommended to complete:

• Calculus III (MAT 147)
• Elementary Linear Algebra (MAT 175)
• Structured Problem-Solving Using the Computer (IT 168)

Academic Advising

Minimum GPA

2.00

Middle 50% GPA

3.40 - 3.80

Application Period

Applications are always accepted

Application Information

Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.

Major Requirements

Grades of "C" or better in MAT 145 and 146

Academic Advising