Political scientists employ increasingly sophisticated statistical methods. Understanding these methods—and new ones that will undoubtedly become available—requires a firm foundation in mathematical statistics. This course is intended to provide this foundation so that students can continue their methods training with subsequent courses in the department (PS 813 and PS 818) as well as other advanced courses and, most importantly, through independent learning. It also provides some applications that illustrate concepts and introduce students to empirical political science research.
I seek to help every student achieve basic competence in the material. Please use my office hours to get help on the material covered in lecture. Do NOT allow yourself to fall behind. If necessary, I am willing to slow the pace to keep everyone moving forward. However, I cannot make adjustments unless you communicate to me any problems you are having with the material.