Scheduling Issue: Econometrics vs. Stat Theory

[evanomics]

Hey all,

I'm currently pursuing a BA in applied math, economics.
I was planning on taking econometrics this Spring as well as Statistical Theory. However, both meet at the same time. Part of me believes econometrics is more valuable since it seems very important in my department for research. However, I've been conditionally accepted to receive an MA in applied math conditional on me taking Stat Theory in spring and receiving an A-, which I believe is very possible with hard work.

I was wondering what your take on the matter is. Is it specifically econometrics that is of value, or is stat theory just as sufficient? I am deciding therefore which to take junior spring and which to take as a senior.

For what it's worth, I will have completed one semester of calc-based Probability and Statistics, and one semester of Probability Theory.

Thanks.

[moneyandcredit]

Sounds like Stat Theory might give you an advantage. You'll cover all the applications in a PhD program, but a theory class in undergrad shows that you can handle the theoretical underpinnings that are so important at the higher level.

[walt526]

Would it be possible to take MA-level Econometrics as an elective for the MA Applied Math?

Honestly, if you're solid in undergrad probability and statistics, then you should be able to do fine in MA-level Econometrics even without BA-level Econometrics. Both courses cover the same material, just usually MA-level is faster paced and has more detailed applied exercises/projects. You'll probably need special permission from the Math department to count it toward the MA and from the Econ department to take MA-level Econometrics without BA-level Econometrics, but it's worth pursuing.

If not, you might be able to find someplace nearby that offers BA-level Econometrics over the summer.

[evanomics]

Originally Posted by walt526

Would it be possible to take MA-level Econometrics as an elective for the MA Applied Math?

Honestly, if you're solid in undergrad probability and statistics, then you should be able to do fine in MA-level Econometrics even without BA-level Econometrics. Both courses cover the same material, just usually MA-level is faster paced and has more detailed applied exercises/projects. You'll probably need special permission from the Math department to count it toward the MA and from the Econ department to take MA-level Econometrics without BA-level Econometrics, but it's worth pursuing.

If not, you might be able to find someplace nearby that offers BA-level Econometrics over the summer.

In order to take graduate econometrics (only PhD at Hopkins), Prerequisites: Statistics Inference(180.636), Microeconomic Theory (180.601), Mathematical Economics (180.614); of which I will have none.

It sounds like Stat is more valuable - do you think this will make it hard for me, however, to gain a research position? I have heard 'no metrics, no RA'

[Gecko]

If your aim is to RA then the empirical component of the econometrics will be more helpful ~ if grad school, i will sway towards stat theory

[evanomics]

My eventual goal is grad school but would econometrics land me a better RA position to get to grad school?

Option1: Econometrics; conditional into ba/ma program with either Stochastic Processes, Graph Theory, or Time Series. Take stat theory Senior spring

Option 2: Stat Theory; take econometrics in Senior Fall

Thank you all for the valuable insight you have all provided. This forum's great

[Gecko]

The chain from RA to grad school is not always assured - it could be even more time consuming to do that if you are able to get good letters already..

[evanomics]

Thanks Gecko. Any other opinions? I'm pretty torn.

[Gecko]

Talk to your advisors and see how strong the letters are likely to be~ and where they are comfortable recommending you. No point wasting time on RA if the letters are good