Monte Carlo Methods and Bayesian Statistics

Postgraduate course

Course description

Objectives and Content

The course provides an introduction to theory and practice in Monte Carlo statistical methods and Bayesian statistics. It aims to provide a good foundation in both fields. Topics covered are the generation of random numbers from different probability distributions, estimation of density functions, Monte Carlo integration, Monte Carlo methods of statistical inference, and the bootstrap. The corse will also provide an introduction to Markov Chain Monte Carlo and Bayesian statistics.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, students should be able to:

  • Generate of random numbers from (different) probability distributions
  • Use/ apply the acceptance-rejection algorithm
  • Perform Monte Carlo integration with error evaluation and carry out importance sampling in an integration context
  • know acceleration methods such as the use of antithetical variables and control variables
  • Use Monte Carlo methods of estimation of density functions and carry out hypothesis tests
  • Know the Bootstrap method
  • Understand and be able to apply Markov Chain Mojte Carlo (MCMC) including Metropolis-Hastings algorithm and Gibbs sampling
  • Understand the Bayesian theorem and can carry out Bayesian inference both theoretically and numerically with MCMC
  • Know the concept of Bayesian conjugate prior distributions
  • Use Bayesian model selection and Bayesian networks

Level of Study

Master

Semester of Instruction

Spring/Irregular. Course will be offered if it is on this course list: Workbook: Emneliste for innreisende utvekslingsstudenter (uhad.no)
Required Previous Knowledge
None
Recommended Previous Knowledge
STAT110, STAT111, STAT210 (can be an advantage).
Credit Reduction due to Course Overlap
None
Access to the Course
Access to the course requires admission to a program of study at The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Teaching and learning methods

Lectures / approx. 4 hours pr. week

Computer lab / appro. 2 hours a week for 6 weeks

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
To mandatory exercises
Forms of Assessment
Oral examination
Grading Scale
The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.