Electives for M.S. Degree "Computational Track"

An appropriate portfolio of Electives is offered to students. The appropriate electives will be selected in consultation with the student's advisor. Find course descriptions and meeting times below.

* Preferred Elective for Computational Track     ***Requires permission of the GEMS Director

L24-439: Linear Statistics Models
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Stanley Sawyer
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every 2 years, not offered in Fall 2009
Description: An introduction to statistical methods based in linear algebra. Topics: multivariate normal distribution; quadratic forms; linear models and their classification; general linear hypothesis; regression models, analysis of variance; factorial, block, and variance components models; canonical correlation; factor analysis. Prerequisites: a course in linear algebra, such as Math 309 or 429, and a course in statistics that includes regression, such as Math 320.

L24-449: Numerical Applied Mathematics
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Mladen Victor Wickerhauser
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Fall (MWF 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. in Fall 2009; Cupples I, 207)
Description:  Computer arithmetic, error propagation, condition number and stability; mathematical modeling, approximation and convergence; roots of functions; calculus of finite differences; implicit and explicit methods for initial and boundary value problems; numerical integration; numerical solution of linear systems, matrix equations, and eigensystems; Fourier transforms; optimization. Various software packages are introduced and used. STUDENTS WITH CREDIT FOR MATH 404 or 405 CANNOT ALSO RECEIVE CREDIT FOR 449. PREREQUISITES: Math 1201 or equivalent programming experience, 217, and 309.

L24-475: Statistical Computation using SAS*
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Nan Lin
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Fall (TuTh 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. in Fall 2009; Cupples I, 113)
Description: Applied statistics using SAS. An introduction to SAS and SAS programming; contingency tables and Mantel-Haenszel tests; general linear models and matrix operations; simple, multilinear, and stepwise regressions; ANOVAs with nested and crossed interactions; ANOVAs and regressions with vector-valued data (MANOVAs). Topics chosen from discriminant analysis, principal components analysis, logistic regression, survival analysis, and generalized linear models. Prereq: Math 320 and 493 (or 493 concurrently).

L24-493: Probability *
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Albert Bernstein
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Fall (MWF 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. in Fall 2009; Cupples I, 115)
Description: Mathematical theory and application of probability at the advanced undergraduate level; a calculus based introduction to probability theory. Topics include the computational basics of probability theory, combinatorial methods, conditional probability including Bayes' theorem, random variables and distributions, expectations and moments, the classical distributions, and the central limit theorem. Prereq: Math 318 or 308.

L41-4181: Population Genetics
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Alan Templeton
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every 2 years, (TuTh 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. in Fall 2009--McDonnell 162)
Description: An introduction to the basic principles of population and ecological genetics. Mechanisms of microevolutionary processes; integrated ecological and genetic approach to study the adaptive nature of the evolutionary process. Prerequisite: Bio 2970.

L41-5068: Fundamentals of Molecular Cell Biology
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: John A. Cooper
Credit Hours: 4 units
Frequency: Every Fall, (TuTh 8:30-10:00 a.m.& W 3:00-4:00 p.m. in Fall 2009, Farrell Ctr, Holden Auditorium)
Description: This is a core course for incoming graduate students in Cell and Molecular Biology programs to learn about research and experimental strategies used to dissect molecular mechanisms that underlie cell structure and function, including techniques of protein biochemistry. Enrolling students should have backgrounds in cell biology and biochemistry, such as courses comparable to L41 Biol 334 and L41 Biol 4501. The format is two lectures and one small group discussion section per week. Discussion section focuses on original research articles. Same as M15 5068 and M04 5068.

L41-5285: Fundamentals of Mammalian Genetics
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Michael Lovett
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Fall (TuTh 3:00 - 4:30, begins Tu, Sept. 1 in Fall 2009, Biotech Bldg. 330)
Description: This course aims to provide both biologists and those with mathematical backgrounds with a basis in mammalian genetics. The course will include the following modules: Nucleic acid biochemistry; Gene and chromosome organization; Introduction to Human Genetics; Mutations and DNA repair; Cancer Genetics; Genomic methodologies; Biochemical genetics; Murine Genetics; Epigenetics; Neurodegenerative diseases; Mitochondrial disorders; Pharmacogenetics; Introduction to human population genetics; Applications of modern human genetics; Introduction to web-based informatics tools for molecular genetics. One of the required courses in the Quantitative Human Statistical Genetics graduate program.

L41-5495: Computational Molecular Biology
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Michael R. Brent
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Fall (MWF 2:30 - 4:00 in Fall 2009, 4444 Forest Park Bldge, 5206)
Description: This course focuses on genome sequence analysis, emphasizing computational and algorithmic issues. Topics covered include: the essential biology, the essential probability theory, base calling and quality clipping, predicting protein-coding genes (including Hidden Markov Models and comparative genomics approaches), sequence aligning, RNA folding, protein domain analysis, and an introduction to population biology. This includes both paper and pencil homework assignments and programming labs in "C." Prereqs: CSE 241 or CSE 502N.

L55-430 or L32-4301: Multi-Level Models in Quantitative Research
Department: Applied Statistics & Political Science
Course Master: Jeff Gill
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Fall (Th 4:00 - 6:00 in Fall 2009; McDonnell SB Cori)
Description: This course covers statistical model development with explicitly defined hierarchies. Such multilevel specifications allow researchers to account for different structures in the data and provide for the modeling of variation between defined groups. The course begins with simple nested linear models and proceeds on to non-nested models, multilevel models with dichotomous outcomes, and multilevel generalized linear models. In each case, a Bayesian perspective on inference and computation is featured. The focus on the course will be practical steps for specifying, fitting, and checking multilevel models with much time spent on the details of computation in the R and Bugs environments. Prereq: ASTAT 350 or 3067 or 364 or equivalent.

L55-420: Categorical Data Analysis
Department: Applied Statistics & Psychology
Course Master: Carol Woods
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Fall ( Tu-Th 10 -11:30, Seigle L016 in Fall 2009; Seigle L016)
Description: An introduction to methods for analyzing categorical data, including those for contingency table data (i.e., all variables are nominal or ordinal), as well as regression models for nominal or ordinal outcome variables. Underlying statistical theory is included only in the context of data analysis and computation. Emphasis is on learning when and how to apply the methods and how to interpret the results. Computations will be done either by hand or with the R computer program. Previous experience with R is helpful but not required. PREREQ: ASTAT 350 or 364 or 3067 or 413 or Psych 5066 or equivalent.

L24-322: Biostatistics
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Mladen Wickerhauser
Credit Hours: 3 units.
Frequency: Every spring ( MWF 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. in Spring 2010, TBA)
Description: A second course in elementary statistics with applications to life sciences and medicine. Review of basic statistics using biological and medical examples. New topics include incidence and prevalence, medical diagnosis, sensitivity and specificity, Bayes' rule, decision making, maximum likelihood, logistic regression, ROC curves and survival analysis. Each student will be required to perform and write a report on a data analysis project. Prereq: Math 3200, or (Math 2200 AND permission of instructor).

L24-420: Experimental Design
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Nan Lin
Credit Hours: 3 units.
Frequency: Every 2 years (MWF 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. in Spring 2010)
Description: A first course in the design and analysis of experiments, from the point of view of regression. Factorial, randomized block, spli-plot, Latin square , and similar design. Prerequisite: Math 320 or equivalent.

L24-459: Bayesian Statistics
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Masters: Nan Lin
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every 2 years, ( MWF 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. in Spring 2010)
Description: Introduces the Bayesian approach to statistical inference for data analysis in a variety of applications. The topics include: comparison of Bayesian and frequentist methods, Bayesian model specification, choice of priors, computational methods, empirical Bayes method, hands-on Bayesian data analysis using appropriate software. Prereq: Math 493 or permission of the instructor.

L24-494: Mathematical Statistics
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Stanley Sawyer
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Spring (MWF 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. in Spring 2010)
Description: Theory of estimation, minimum variance and unbiased estimators, maximum likelihood theory, Bayesian estimation, prior and posterior distributions, confidence intervals for general estimators, standard estimators and distributions such as the Student-t and F-distribution from a more advanced viewpoint, hypothesis testing, the Neymann-Pearson Lemma (about best possible tests), linear models, and other topics as time permits. Prereq: Math 493.

L24-533: Mathematical Statistics I: Semiparametric Statistics
Department: Department of Mathematics
Course Master: Jimin Ding
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Spring (MWF 4:00 -5:30 p.m. in Spring 2010)
Description: Semiparametric estimation efficiency; examples of semiparametric models such as Cox model and Proportional odds model. Prerequisites: Math 5051 (measure theory) and Math 493 (or other equivalent probability course), or permission of the instructor.

L55 350E: Intermediate Applied Statistics: Linear Models
Department: Center for Applied Statistics
Course Master: Robert Wayne Walker
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Spring (not offered in Spring 2010)
Description: This course provides a detailed introduction to linear statistical models, the workhorse of applied statistics. Building on foundations in basic probability theory and central limit theorems, linear statistical models can be built from first principles to describe data and/or formalize statistical inference. The remainder of the
course will evaluate the robustness to deviations from the basic assumptions and thus generalize the core principles of the linear regression model. Prerequisites: Applied Statistics 330.heory of estimation, minimum variance and unbiased estimators, maximum likelihood theory, Bayesian estimation, prior and posterior distributions, confidence intervals for general estimators, standard estimators and distributions such as the Student-t and F-distribution from a more advanced viewpoint, hypothesis testing, the Neymann-Pearson Lemma (about best possible tests), linear models, and other topics as time permits. Prereq: Math 493.

L55-440: Factor Analysis and Related Methods
Department: Center for Applied Statistics
Course Master: Carol Woods
Frequency: Every Spring (Tu 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. in Spring 2010 in Eads 14)
Description: In factor analysis, a "factor" is an unobservable construct hypothesized to give rise to observed variables (e.g., responses to questionnaire items). This course introduces popular factor-analytic models and methods for fitting them to data, in both exploratory and confirmatory contexts. Models for (approximately) continuous observed data are covered, as well as those for categorical observed data, including a few models and methods of item response theory. Application and interpretation are emphasized, with statistical theory introduced as needed. Use of one or more computer programs will be required (prior experience with factor-analytic software is useful but not assumed). PREREQ: ASTAT 350 or equivalent.

L41-324: Human Genetics
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Duncan, Armstrong, Dutcher, Kulkarni, Morgan, Piersall, Reimschisel
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Unknown (not offered Spring 2010)
Description: Broad coverage of the role of genetics in medicine, with a focus on the application of genomic technologies to the understanding of human disease. Areas covered include the identification of human disease genes, modern cytogenetics, risk assessment in pedigrees, biochemical genetics, imprinting, mitochondrial genetics, gene therapy, complex inheritance, assisted reproduction, prenatal diagnosis, immunity, cancer, and pharmacogenetics. The profound ethical and legal considerations raised by modern genetic technologies are also discussed. Prerequisite: Bio 2960 and Bio 2970, or permission of instructor. Biochemistry recommended. Class limit of 40.

L41-4342: Research Explorations in Genomics
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Sarah Elgin and Elaine Mardis
Credit Hours: 4 units
Frequency: Every spring (MW 1:30 - 5:00 and F 1:30 - 2:30 p.m., Life Sciences 202 in Spring 2010)
Description: A collaborative laboratory investigation of a problem in genomics, involving generation of a large data set (either genomic sequence or microarray analysis of gene expression) and computer analysis of the data. In spring '10 the research problem will involve sequencing a region of the Drosophila grimshawi genome and analyzing by comparison to Drosophila melanogaster data to examine patterns of genome organization and gene regulation. Class will meet at the WU Genome Sequencing Center during the first half of the semester, and in the Biology Department the second half of the semester. Prerequisites: Bio 297A, Chemistry 111/112, 151/152. While Bio 3371 or Bio 437, and some familiarity with computers would be advantageous, this is NOT required. Permission of the instructor is required. Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major.

L41-5011 Ethics and Research Science
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: TBA
Credit Hours: 1 unit
Frequency: Every spring (6 weeks) TBA in spring 2010
Description: Exploration of ethical issues which research scientists encounter in their professional activities. Topics will include, but are not limited to: student-mentor relationships, allegations of fraud, collaborators' rights and responsibilities, conflicts of interest, confidentiality, publications. Case study and scenario presentations will provide focus for discussions. Prerequisite, open to graduate students engaged in research. Six 90 minute sessions.

L41-5488: Genomics
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Barak Cohen and Robi D. Mitra
Credit Hours: 3 units lecture + 1 unit for lab; maximum 4 units
Frequency: Every spring (MW 10:00 - 11:30 a.m., Labs on Fr 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. in Spring 2010, at 4444 Forest Park Bldg, 5206)
Description: A hybrid of concepts and practical applications in genomics. Areas covered include how genomes are mapped and sequenced, computational methods for gene predictions, functional genomic techniques for ascribing function to DNA, RNA and protein sequence and how genomic techniques and resources can advance the study of human disease. Heavy emphasis will be placed on students acquiring basic skills needed to navigate and manipulate databases of DNA sequence, gene expression and other types of genome wide data. Prerequisites, Molecular Cell Biology (Bio 5068), Nucleic Acids (Bio 548) or by permission of instructor. Lecture 3 units of credit; lab 1 additional unit, space limited.

L41-5491: Advanced Genetics
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Tim B. Schedl
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every spring (Tu TH 2:00 -3:30 p.m.in Spring 2010, Discussion sections Mo 12:00 - 1:00 p.m., at McDonnell Sci Bldg 823)
Description: Fundamental aspects of organismal genetics with emphasis on experimental studies that have contributed to the molecular analysis of complex biological problems. Examples drawn from bacteria, yeast, nematodes, fruit flies and mammalian systems. Prerequisite: graduate standing or permission of instructor.

L41-550: Medical Genetics
Department: Department of Biology and Biomedical Sciences
Course Master: Allison Whelan
Credit Hours: 2 units
Frequency: Every spring (TuTH 8:30 - 10:00 a.m. in Spring 2010-conflicts with GEMS 621)
Description: Topics covered include population and quantitative genetics, clinical cytogenetics, biochemical genetics and metabolic defects. Lectures, clinics and small group discussions. Prerequisite, an introductory genetics course and permission of the instructor.

U88-588: Epidemiology for Clinical Research
Department: Clinical Investigation Program
Course Masters: Mario Schootman
Credit Hours: 3 units
Frequency: Every Spring (W 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.in Spring 2010, 4444 Forest Park Bldg, Room 6700)
Description: The purpose of this course is to provide individuals an understanding of the use of epidemiological concepts and methods both in clinical research, in clinical issues, and in understanding medical literature concerning these issues. The course includes 1) discussion of theoretical concepts related to the application of epidemiology in clinical research, and 2) practical applications of the concepts covered.

For details, to register and to receive the required permission of the Course Master contact the GEMS Program Manager (pa@wubios.wustl.edu or telephone 362-1052). Computational students must have the permission of the GEMS Director to enroll in this course.

M21-599: Independent Study
Department: Division of Biostatistics
Course Master: D.C. Rao
Credit Hours: maximum 6 units
Frequency: Every spring, summer, and fall
Description: A faculty member will work with the student in specific areas related to the student's primary needs. Permission of the Course Master required (362-1052).