Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Statistics

Purpose

The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners

• With the ability to develop theoretical skills in the formulation of new models and methods for the analysis and interpretation of data.
• With problem-solving skills and the ability to formulate questions in a mathematical or probabilistic framework.

The qualification prepares learners for, and provides a basis for

• Career as Statistician in Commerce or Industry.
• An academic career at a University or Technikon.
• Entrance to a research based higher qualification, such as Master of Science (MSc).
• Entrance to the professional examinations of the United Kingdom (UK), based Institute of Actuaries and Faculty of Actuaries.

Rationale

The qualification is a specialisation in the field of Mathematical Statistics to prepare the learners for research based Postgraduate study. The qualification serves to consolidate and deepen learner's expertise in Mathematical Statistics and to develop research capacity in the Methodology and Techniques of Mathematical Statistics. This qualification demands a high-level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence.

Learners accessing this qualification should demonstrate their ability to

• Identify problems within the discipline of Statistics.
• Generate experimental data in projects commensurate with the level of the qualification make correct interpretations and appropriate deductions.
• Operate easily in the philosophy of the science of Statistics and related fields.
• Work in groups with others in the solution of problems and carrying out of projects.
• Work effectively under supervision in the performance of practical projects and the compilation of reports.
• Be able to generate, analyse and evaluate experimental data.
• Use technical language and terminology with competence in the processing and presentation of reports in written or oral form.
• Participate responsibly in activities that impinge on, and lead to improvement of societal quality of life by demonstration and avoidance of practices that will negatively affect the wellbeing of others.
• Investigate employment possibilities.
• Investigate and evaluate entrepreneurial possibilities in the field of Statistics and related competence.
• Generate information by correct and appropriate use of technology and research methodology.
• Formulate hypotheses, generate facts and assemble data in pursuit of that hypotheses, evaluate these facts by means of appropriate Statistical analyses and present them, in verbal or written form, with due regard to clarity, correctness of technical terminology and language usage.
• Work harmoniously with co-workers in the same working environment.
• Communicate results and findings in a clear, scientifically correct manner, verbally or in the form of written submissions.
• Work without being driven.

Recognition of prior learning

A learner who claims to have achieved entry requirements through experiential learning will be assessed. If the student is found to be competent the student may gain:

• Access.
• Advanced placement.

Or

• Recognition of Degree status will be granted on condition of continuing education.

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (or its equivalent) with Mathematical Statistics 1, 2 and 3 (or their equivalents) as major.
• At least Mathematics 1 and Mathematics 2 (or their equivalents)
• Potential learners are required to have attained a final mark of at least 65% in their Level 6 Statistical Modules.

This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at NQF Level 8, totalling to 126 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 30 Credits.

• Probability Theory, 12 Credits.
• Stochastic Processes, 12 Credits.
• Time Series Analysis, 12 Credits.
• Statistical Inference, 12 Credits.
• Projects, 30 Credits.
• Design and Analysis of Experiments, 12 Credits.
• Derivative Securities 1, 12 Credits.
• Methods of Multivariate Analysis, 12 Credits.
• Non-Parametric Statistics, 12 Credits.

1. Identify a problem, formulate an appropriate hypothesis, generate experimental data, and make correct interpretations and appropriate deductions.
2. Work harmoniously with co-workers in the same working environment, in groups with others in the solution of problems and the carrying out of projects.
3. Work independently in the mastery of subject contents, the performance of practical projects and the compilation of reports.
4. Plan and execute a research programme under supervision and relate the findings to the existing body of knowledge in the field.
5. Find, evaluate and integrate technical literature, use appropriate and correct technical language and terminology in reports.
6. Perform the practice of science and technology effectively and responsibly.
7. Plan, analyse and honestly reporting on an investigation with due regard to the impact of the problem and its solution on the physical or social environment and, if required, modify the proposal to accommodate any problems or difficulties encountered.
8. Use different techniques to assimilate and analyse data, by reading, discussion, calculation, reporting and presentation of projects and seminars.
9. Be able to explain the relevance and importance of he specific subject to the community.
10. Demonstrate an awareness of the impact of statistical science on a multicultural societal environment and the differing needs and expectations of society.
11. Investigate further possibilities of training and employment.
12. Investigate and evaluate entrepreneurial possibilities in the appropriate field and also the relevance of the chosen field of society.
13. Identify, interpret, analyse and address complex problems, using both routine and advanced skills, conceptual and/or evidence-based enquiry and theory-driven arguments.
14. Work effectively with others in a team by being answerable for their own work and the work of others.
15. Identify, evaluate and address their own professional and on-going learning needs.
16. Demonstrate efficient and effective information retrieval and processing skills, using appropriate Information and Communications Technology (ICT).
17. Demonstrate a comprehensive, systematic and critical knowledge and understanding of the principles, scope, theories and epistemologies of Mathematical Statistics.
18. Evaluate their own and others academic work and initiatives against informed criteria.
19. Present and communicate ideas and texts, offering professional insights, interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to Mathematical Statistics.
20. Use science and technology in complex and challenging contexts and make autonomous ethical decisions on complex professional issues in accordance with recognised professional and/or ethical standards.
21. Critique current research and advanced scholarship in Biochemisty and make sound theoretical judgements based on evidence.
22. Identify, select and apply a range of research methodologies and methods/techniques to research problem/s in Mathematical Statistics.
23. Identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of quantitative and/or qualitative data, and to engage with and evaluate current research and scholarly or professional literature in Mathematical Statistics.

The Associated Assessment Criterion highlighted below will be integrated within the Exit Level Outcomes

• Display a thorough knowledge of the field of enquiry.
• Formulate an appropriate hypothesis.
• Plan and carry out an appropriate experimental program.
• Analyse results obtained correctly.
• Cooperate with fellow learners, contribute meaningfully to group efforts to work on a problem and accept a responsible part in a group effort.
• Display a mastery of subject material by independent study.
• Work on a project successfully and produce a project or progress report.
• Present a suitable project proposal on a topic, motivate the reasoning behind the proposal satisfactorily.
• Perform the actions required to complete the collection of information relate the information obtained to that which is known.
• Display knowledge of current information retrieval systems and processes.
• Demonstrate a mastery of the use of technical and professional language and terminology.
• Demonstrate awareness and recognition of the need for careful and correct statistical techniques.
• Use appropriate technology correctly, safely and responsibly.
• Present a project proposal in which all the appropriate aspects relating to the broad social and environmental considerations are addressed.
• Suggest possible changes in the proposal should certain aspects not turn out as expected.
• Show awareness of the need for different ways of learning and assimilation of knowledge by electronic calculation and retrieval systems, libraries, and personal contacts at meetings.
• Show an awareness of the need for continued study so as to remain constantly up to date.
• Demonstrate awareness of the importance of making valid conclusions from experimental data.
• Demonstrate awareness of where the chosen field of study impinges on society and where further studies may be done. This includes medicinal, industrial, recreational and aesthetic considerations.
• Demonstrate the ability to relate the field of study to society and thus know where those skills are likely to be required.
• Demonstrate the knowledge of what the chosen field of study involves and how it can be used for entrepreneurial activity.
• Show an understanding of how the field of study impinges on society.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment practices that will be implemented

The problem-solving skills of learners are continuously assessed via informal class tests, homework assignments and a formal written mid-year test in each module.

Summative assessment practices that will be implemented

Summative assessment will be by written examinations and a project report.