Biostatistics is the application of statistical reasoning to the life sciences, and it is the key to unlocking the data gathered by researchers and the evidence presented in the scientific literature. In this course, we'll focus on the use of statistical measurement methods within the world of public health research. Along the way, you'll be introduced to a variety of methods and measures, and you'll practice interpreting data and performing calculations on real data from published studies. Topics include summary measures, visual displays, continuous data, sample size, the normal distribution, binary data, the element of time, and the Kaplan-Meir curve.
This course is part of the Biostatistics in Public Health Specialization
Offered By
About this Course
The recommended math prerequisite is up through and including basic algebra including logarithms and the equation of a line.
Could your company benefit from training employees on in-demand skills?
Try Coursera for BusinessWhat you will learn
Calculate continuous data measures
Interpret data visualizations
Analyze binary data
Analyze time to event data
Skills you will gain
- Statistics
- Normal Distribution
- summary measures
- binary data
The recommended math prerequisite is up through and including basic algebra including logarithms and the equation of a line.
Could your company benefit from training employees on in-demand skills?
Try Coursera for BusinessOffered by
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
The Role of Statistics in Public Health Research
Continuous Data Measures
The Normal Distribution
Binary Data
Dealing with the Element of Time
Course Project
Reviews
- 5 stars83.21%
- 4 stars14.42%
- 3 stars1.64%
- 2 stars0.23%
- 1 star0.47%
TOP REVIEWS FROM SUMMARY STATISTICS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
I am glad to learn a lot of terms in statistics and how to use and interpret them in the context of Public Health researches. The Instructor provided enough examples to understand the lessons better.
A quick summary about the basic concepts involved in summary statistics for public health. It helped me to understand the vocabulary used in many health related publications.
Very good course! Lectures were easy to follow and gave great examples! Would highly encourage taking this course if you are looking for a biostatistics course or even to refresh your memory!
I enjoyed and learnt a lot from the course. Dr. McGready is an excellent teacher. His style of going over the material in great detail helped me understand the concepts well. Thank you Dr. McGready!
About the Biostatistics in Public Health Specialization

Frequently Asked Questions
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?
Is financial aid available?
More questions? Visit the Learner Help Center.