MATH 4720

Theory of Statistics

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

Introduction to classical theory of parametric statistical inference that builds on the material covered in STSCI 3080. Topics include: sampling distributions, principles of data reduction, likelihood, parameter estimation, hypothesis testing, interval estimation, and basic asymptotic theory.

Prerequisites STSCI 3080 or MATH 4710 or equivalent; STSCI 2150.

Distribution Requirements (DLS-AG, OPHLS-AG), (SDS-AS)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2026FA, 2026SP, 2025FA, 2025SP

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the general principles of statistical estimation and testing.
• Design a statistical estimator in a principled way based on a description of a dataset.
• Analyze the theoretical properties of an estimator and a hypothesis test.
• Calculate and correctly interpret confidence intervals, p-values, statistical significance, and power.
• Recognize the general principles underlying common statistical procedures.

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