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MATHS 7103 - Probability & Statistics

North Terrace Campus - Semester 1 - 2015

Probability theory is the branch of mathematics that deals with modelling uncertainty. It is important because of its direct application in areas such as genetics, finance and telecommunications. It also forms the fundamental basis for many other areas in the mathematical sciences including statistics, modern optimisation methods and risk modelling. This course provides an introduction to probability theory, random variables and Markov processes. Topics covered are: probability axioms, conditional probability; Bayes' theorem; discrete random variables, moments, bounding probabilities, probability generating functions, standard discrete distributions; continuous random variables, uniform, normal, Cauchy, exponential, gamma and chi-square distributions, transformations, the Poisson process; bivariate distributions, marginal and conditional distributions, independence, covariance and correlation, linear combinations of two random variables, bivariate normal distribution; sequences of independent random variables, the weak law of large numbers, the central limit theorem; definition and properties of a Markov chain and probability transition matrices; methods for solving equilibrium equations, absorbing Markov chains.

  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code MATHS 7103
    Course Probability & Statistics
    Coordinating Unit Mathematical Sciences
    Term Semester 1
    Level Postgraduate Coursework
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Units 3
    Contact Up to 3.5 hours per week
    Available for Study Abroad and Exchange Y
    Prerequisites MATHS 1012
    Assessment ongoing assessment 30%, exam 70%
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Dr David Green

    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from .

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    Students who successfully complete this course should be able to demonstrate understanding of :
    1 basic probability axioms and rules and the moments of discrete and continous random variables as well as be familiar with common named discrete and continous random variables.
    2 how to derive the probability density function of transformations of random variables and use these techniques to generate data from various distributions.
    3 how to calculate probabilities, and derive the marginal and conditional distributions of bivariate random variables.
    4 discrete time Markov chains and methods of finding the equilibrium probability distributions.
    5 how to calculate probabilities of absorption and expected hitting times for discrete time Markov chains with absorbing states.
    6 how to translate real-world problems into probability models.
    7 how to read and annotate an outline of a proof and be able to write a logical proof of a statement.


    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)
    Knowledge and understanding of the content and techniques of a chosen discipline at advanced levels that are internationally recognised. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
    The ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner. 2
    An ability to apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and cooperatively, to current and future problems. 2,6,7
    Skills of a high order in interpersonal understanding, teamwork and communication. 2
    A proficiency in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
    A commitment to continuous learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
  • Learning Resources
    Required Resources
    None.
    Recommended Resources
    There are many good books on probability and statistics in the Barr Smith Library, with the following texts being recommended for this course.

    1 "Mathematical Statistics with Applications" by  Wackerly, Mendenhall and Schaeffer (Duxbury 2008).
    2. "Introduction to Stochastic Models" by Roe Goodman (2nd edition, Dover, 2006).
    3. "Introduction to Probability Models" by Sheldon Ross (Academic Press, 2010).
    4. "Mathematical Statistics and Data Analysis" by John Rice (Duxbury Press, 2006).

    For other texts on probability and statistics, try browsing books with call numbers beginning with 519.2.
    Online Learning
    A semblance of the course notes will available online for those who wish to download and print prior to attending lectures. The format (either as two or one slide per page) is the same as the presentation slides used in the lectures, with room for you to annotate during lectures. 

    Recordings of lectures will also be available online immediately following each lecture for those who are unable to attend due to other commitments and for revision purposes.

    All assignments, tutorials, handouts and solutions wh