Mathematics, with its emphasis on number, quantity, form, and relations, is a field of study which requires careful analysis and clear reasoning. It is, therefore, one of the most useful divisions of human knowledge, and the knowledge and skills obtained from mathematics play an essential role in the development of technology - the tools, materials, techniques, and sources of power that make our lives easier and our nation more advanced. Mathematical training also helps us learn how to solve our everyday problems more creatively and rationally.

In this information age, we are bombarded with enormous amount of information everyday. How efficiently and effectively such information is produced and utilized determines the success or failure of individuals, groups, corporations, and nations. Statistics is a field of study which involves collectiong and analyzing information (data), identifying and solving problems, and helping people to make good decisions about uncertain situations. The goal of the Department of Statistics is to foster talented young people with expertise this information age calls for.

The Division of Basic Sciences is a part of the College of Natural Sciences and offers education and research in basic sciences. The division has been formed by combing physics and chemistry, which existed separately from 1981 to 1996. By joining these two disciplines, the division can now offer undergraduates broader educational opportunities, which they can pursue in more depth later in graduate programs.

Physics concentration involves study of matter and energy observed in the nature. By working to develop theories and testing them experimentally for verification, students who concentrate on physics attempt to find explanation on how and why something happens or happened. Understanding natural phenomena in this way provides the basis of modern technology and helps improve the quality of human life.

Theories and their applications are both essential in the field of physics. In theoretical physics, predictions are made about certain phenomena based upon laws and theories expressed in the language of mathematics. Training in the theoretical physics is done through the use of computer as well as classroom lectures.

In experimental physics, carefully designed experiments are performed, and their results are compared to what was predicted to happen. For physics concentrators, the division has professors who specialize in particle physics and plasma physics.

Chemistry concentration involves both theoretical and experimental study of the properties of substances that make up the universe - elements and atoms. The field of chemistry is an integral part of science which is crucial to the advancement of a nation in terms of modern technolgy and industries. It is often difficult to separate chemistry from other fields of natural sciences, for it overlaps such sciences as biology, geology, mathematics, and physics.

The division has been strongly supported by the government and many industries, receiving various funds and grants (IBRD grant, to name one), which have been used to equip the division with state-of-the-art equipment for experiments and training. Currently, the division has faculty members specializing in physical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and analytical chemistry, providing the students with opportunities to study diverse areas of chemistry.

The Computer Center is equipped with the most up-to-date models of computers for individual use, which are all connected to the university network and the Internet via LAN system. All undergrauate students have access to the laboratories for their studies during vacations and have early exposure to a research and development environment.