MATH 217 - Biostatistics

A course in statistical methods for students in biology and the health sciences. The course will explore foundational concepts and applications in descriptive and inferential statistics including: conditional probability, sampling distribution, estimation, odds ratios, formal probability distributions (e.g., binomial, Gaussian and Poisson), confidence intervals, hypothesis testing (e.g., t-tests, Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, ANOVA, chi-square tests), correlation, simple and multiple linear regression, relative risk, and logistic regression. Coursework will rely heavily on technology in order to focus on the applications of statistical concepts and methods within the health sciences and biology areas. PRE- or COREQUISITE(S): MATH 150 or MATH 170 or MATH 181 or consent of department. Three hours each week.

3 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon course completion, a student will be able to:

Describe the role of descriptive and inferential statistics within the framework of scientific method.
Examine various probability distributions and their relevant applications.
Describe and apply the theories and practices of statistical inference, probability, hypothesis testing, and confidence intervals.
Communicate inferential statistics and analysis in the context of biological and health sciences, including summary measures, modeling, hypothesis testing, and odds ratios.
Utilize technology to create graphs and visual summaries and to perform statistical calculations and simulations.
Apply statistical concepts to topical biology and health science situations.

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