DEPARTMENT OF STATISTICS
The Department of Applied Statistics came into existence after the creation of Faculty of Computational and Developmental Mathematics (FCDM). The primary goal of the Department is to produce for both the private and public sector organizations middle and senior level managers who have a firm grip of the theory and practice of Applied Statistics. This programme will equip students with knowledge and skills needed to perform professional duties and to work more effectively with other specialists in other fields of study. The course emphasizes the acquisition of practical and problem solving skills to enable students realize what they learn and what is done in practice so as to enable them to apply meaningful rules in solving current developmental problems at regional, national and international levels. Consequently, there is growing demand for (and yet regrettably there is a shortage) people skilled in the subject and its applications.
Programme Highlights
In the first year, Introductory Mathematics is taught together with other general science courses offered by the Department. In the second year, Introductory Applied Mathematics is taught together with other general science courses offered by the Department. In the third year, students are allowed to select their options of interested subjects in accordance with the Department’s pre-requisites and standards. Fourth year students offer courses in either Mathematical Science (Statistics option) or Actuarial Science depending on their option of study. Also, students specializing in the above stated courses continue with courses in their respective disciplines. All fourth year students are supposed to present project work as a requirement for their graduation. All students of the Department from year one to year three are obliged to participate in the University’s Third Trimester programme which takes place during the third trimester of every academic year. In addition, year of three (3) students undertake Industrial Attachment, which is a Faculty requirement for graduation.
Philosophy and Objectives of the Actuarial Science Programme
The curricula for the Actuarial Science programme in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science are designed to prepare students for specialized professional and academic studies. These curricula lead to the award of Bachelor of Science, honours degree normally at the end of a four year period of study. [Diploma holders join the Department in the second year].
The programme provides a solid academic base upon which to build more advanced degrees if so desired. The Department places emphasis on strong theoretical background in Mathematics, Economics, Fundamentals of Actuarial Science, Life Contingencies, Financial Accounting, Investment and Asset Management, Life Insurance and Pension Analysis. Emphasis is also placed on both research and practical oriented projects and the industrial attachment which is of three (3) months duration in the penultimate year.
The main objective of the programme is to offer high quality training and effective grounding in actuarial science techniques. Other objectives of the Actuarial Science programme include:
- To produce for both the private and public sector organizations middle and senior level managers who have a firm grip of the theory and practice of Actuarial Science;
- To equip students with knowledge and skills needed to perform professional duties and to work more effectively with other specialists in other fields of study;
- To train students on how Mathematics is used to solve real world financial problem;
- To expose students to other related auxiliary activities and skills that are needed to orient them more adequately in addressing the data generation requirements for solving challenging developmental problem.
EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS OF GRADUANDS
UDS graduates, by nature of the programme content, are not in any way disadvantaged relative to graduates from other institutions. They can secure employment in a wide range of fields (Teaching, Banking, Industry for Mechanised farming, Insurance, Stock brokerage etc.).