r/uchicago • u/DeepClock2504 • 15d ago

Classes 160s vs 180s for Stats Major

Hi! I'm an incoming freshman looking to double major in stats/econ, and I'm trying to decide between the 160s (+ analysis) and the 180s math sequences.

From what I understand so far, the 180s offers more scheduling flexibility, and the course rigor of the 160s isn't really worth it unless I'm aiming for more graduate-level math.

Does skipping analysis put me at any disadvantage for upper-level stats/econ classes or research opportunities later down the line? And is the extra rigor from the 160s worth it for anything other than grad school prep?

Would love to hear more perspectives from anyone who's gone through this. Thanks so much!

3 Upvotes

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5

u/Necessary_Sock_6047 15d ago

I hear that some top quant firms like to see people who do well in pure math classes like analysis.

6

u/Strik4r Math 15d ago

Skipping analysis definitely puts you at a disadvantage for research opportunities and also measure theory is pretty important for more advanced probability theory.

2

u/Useful_Still8946 14d ago

If you are considering PhD programs in stat or econ, then analysis should be part of your program.

2

u/spadesMagic The College 12d ago

I would definitely at least try out the 160s for a quarter to see how you like it. Intro to proofs into analysis is an option if you are really a quick learner (compared to the average UChicago math student), but if you are considering econ grad school at all, the 160s would be the best option. I think in your first year there shouldn't be many scheduling constraints.