When it comes to using data, there are two main camps, traditional statistics and machine learning, and the two camps complement each other. Statistics remains highly relevant, irrespective of the size of data. Its role remains what it has always been, but it is even more important now. There is a need to transition from traditional statistical modeling to the machine learning world. This course introduces the statistical background necessary for machine learning. Knowledge of statistics relevant to machine learning will prepare you to become a data scientist. The course prepares you for future instruction on machine learning (including its underlying methodology that has statistical foundations) and enables you to develop a deeper understanding of machine learning models.
Statistics You Need to Know for Machine Learning
This course is part of SAS Machine Learning Engineer Professional Certificate
Instructor: Catherine Truxillo
Included with
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Explain the relevance of statistics in machine learning.
Perform linear and logistic regression with practical troubleshooting tips.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Add to your LinkedIn profile
December 2025
71 assignments
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your Probability and Statistics expertise
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate from SAS
There are 5 modules in this course
In this module, you learn how to explain the relevance of statistics in big data and machine learning and relate statistical and data science terminology.
What's included
19 videos8 readings8 assignments1 app item
In this module, you learn about fundamental statistical concepts.
What's included
36 videos9 readings17 assignments
In this module, you learn about correlation and simple linear regression, multiple regression and model selection, and model diagnostics.
What's included
51 videos15 readings9 assignments
In this module, you learn about predictive modeling using logistic regression.
What's included
13 videos8 readings15 assignments
In this module, you learn about the statistical foundations of machine learning.
What's included
41 videos15 readings22 assignments
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Instructor
Offered by
Explore more from Probability and Statistics
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Certificate, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
More questions
Financial aid available,