Most "stat" requirements are satisfied by either Math 151 or 251. Both courses require a substantial commitment of time and energy; Math 251 goes wider and deeper in the same time period.

• Math 251 is mostly statistics with an emphasis on practical use, with enough probability to give some underpinnings. The prerequisite is a semester of calculus, because you will need to do a lot of independent reading and understanding of a fairly technical book. The math per se is not heavily based on the calculus, but formulas, functions, algebra, and graphs are used fearlessly. It can count toward a Math and Physical Sciences major or minor. If you're interested in a field which uses math (like economics--econometrics, population biology…) this is the best one if your schedule will accommodate it.

Offered Fall, every other year. Offered Fall 2007
 
• Math 151 (Elementary Statistics) covers much of the same material as Math 251, but is streamlined down to the bare essentials. The book is thinner, the reading level less difficult, embellishments of basic concepts are minimal. It has a prerequisite of 3 years of college-bound high school math, no more. A brief time (if needed) will be spent in class reviewing formulas for straight lines and their graphs, for example. It is not usable as a course to satisfy a math major or minor.

Offered every semester (usually)

If you are interested in Math 251 but not sure if the level is right, try the problems here.
 I'll be happy to talk with you if you have any questions.
Sally Sievers, Macmillan 102, sievers@wells.edu.