Difference Between B.Sc (Maths) and B.Sc (Statistics)

A person fresh out of school, having done well at the HSC level is often spoilt for choices. Should I choose a course that I like or should I choose a course that my friends are joining. Should I join this college or should I join that college.

What is the difference between two similar sounding courses? In this article, we have selected two similar courses namely B.Sc Maths and B.Sc Statistics and have tried to establish the difference between them to help you choose the right course.

B.Sc Maths (H)

The course basically focuses on developing mathematical skills in algebra, calculus and data analysis. It prepares you for higher studies.

Eligibility: An HSC or equivalent is needed to pursue B.Sc in Maths.

Scope: After your graduation, you can pursue courses like MCA, M.Sc IT, actuarial sciences, MBA or M.Sc in Mathematics. To access the best job opportunities you should complete a Masters and then press on for a Ph.D. Excellent career options are available in research and teaching institutions, technical institutions and various universities.

Many financial services companies, data processing, testing and research centres of multinational companies also aggressively recruit mathematicians. Students trained in pure mathematics are also favourites of software, insurance, market research, education, and securities and banking companies.

Applied mathematicians use theories and techniques to formulate and solve problems in business, physical and social sciences. Some mathematicians, known as cryptanalysts, analyse and decipher encryption codes devised for political, military intelligence and financial information gathering purposes

B.Sc Stats (H)

The curriculum of B.Sc (h) is designed in such a manner that you are taught subjects like probability and permutations. After your graduation, you can pursue courses like actuarial sciences. You can even pursue courses like M.stats from Indian Institute of Statistics.

Eligibility: An HSC or equivalent is needed to pursue B.Sc in statistics.

Scope: In a business environment, where business is becoming more and more data oriented, people who are good with statistics have much to look forward to. With a bachelor’s degree in Statistics, one can become a business analyst, research officer, data analyst or even an investigator.

Statisticians are also required the government sector as well. Tests are being conducted almost every year at, The Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers to Indian Statistical Services. Postgraduates in statistics, mathematical statistics are eligible to appear for this examination.

The Staff Selection Commission recruits statistical investigators under Subordinate Statistical Services across the country.

In the private sector, statistical manpower is required in marketing, insurance, and information technology. Government departments employ statisticians to design, collect, analyse and interpret data for planning.

Comparing Between B.Sc (H) Maths and B.Sc (H)

Choosing B.Sc (H) Maths over B.Sc (H) Statistics or vice versa depends on an individual as both provide similar windows of opportunities. It really depends on an individual's interest in a particular field of study, in case he likes subjects like probability and distribution, he can opt for Statistics, and, in case he likes pure mathematics more, he can take up Mathematics.