Question 1

I’m not good at math, is this course still for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We want to break down the barriers that hold people back from advancing their math skills. In this course, we flip the traditional mathematics pedagogy for teaching math, starting with the real world use-cases and working back to theory.

Most people who are good at math simply have more practice doing math, and through that, more comfort with the mindset needed to be successful. This course is the perfect place to start or advance those fundamental skills, and build the mindset required to be good at math.

Question 2

What areas of mathematics will I learn in this course?

Accepted Answer

Linear algebra (matrices, vectors, and their applications)

Calculus (particularly function optimization using differential calculus)

Probability (common probability distributions like Binomial, Gaussian)

Statistics (parameter estimation, hypothesis testing)

Question 3

Why is mathematics for machine learning and data science important?

Accepted Answer

With out-of-the-box tools, it’s easier than ever to begin a career as a machine learning engineer or data scientist. But to advance deeper in your career, create efficient models, troubleshoot algorithms, and incorporate creative thinking, a deeper understanding of the mathematics behind the models is needed.

Question 4

How long does it take to complete the Specialization?

Accepted Answer

This specialization consists of three courses. At the rate of 5 hours per week, it will take you around 4 weeks to complete Course 1, 3 weeks to complete Course 2, and 4 weeks to complete Course 3 of the Mathematics for Machine Learning and Data Science Specialization.

Question 5

What background knowledge is necessary?

Accepted Answer

This program assumes prerequisite knowledge of mathematical functions, basic algebra, and basic to intermediate Python programming.

Question 6

Do I need to take the courses in a specific order?

Accepted Answer

No. Most learners would benefit from taking courses one and two together, as they introduce concepts that build upon each other, but course three is independent from the other courses in this specialization.

Question 7

Will I earn university credit for completing the Specialization?

Accepted Answer

No, this Specialization is not for college credit.

Question 8

What will I be able to do after completing Mathematics for Machine Learning and Data Science?

Accepted Answer

With Mathematics for Machine Learning and Data Science, you will have a foundation of knowledge that will equip you to go deeper in your machine learning and data science career.

Question 9

Is this a standalone course or a Specialization?

Accepted Answer

The Mathematics for Machine Learning and Data Science Specialization is made up of three courses.

Question 10

Do I need to take the courses in a specific order?

Accepted Answer

No! Most learners would benefit from taking courses one and two together, as they introduce concepts that build upon each other, but course three is independent from the other courses in this specialization.

Question 11

Can I apply for financial aid?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Coursera provides financial aid to learners who cannot afford the fee.

Question 12

How much does the Specialization cost?

Accepted Answer

A Coursera subscription costs $49 / month.

Question 13

Will I receive a certificate at the end of the Specialization?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a certificate at the end of each course if you pay for the courses and complete the programming assignments. There is a limit of 180 days of certificate eligibility, after which you must re-purchase the course to obtain a certificate. If you audit the course for free, you will not receive a certificate.

If you complete all 4 courses in the Specialization, you will also receive an additional certificate showing that you completed the entire Specialization.

Question 14

I want to purchase this Specialization for my employees. How can I do that?

Accepted Answer

Question 15

How do I get a receipt to get this reimbursed by my employer?

Accepted Answer

Question 16

Are all courses of this Specialization ready for enrollment?

Accepted Answer

The final course on probability and statistics is still getting the finishing touches, and will be ready for enrollment at the recommended learning pace of 4 weeks for Course 1 and 3 weeks for Course 2.

Question 17

Is this course really 100% online? Do I need to attend any classes in person?

Accepted Answer

This course is completely online, so there’s no need to show up to a classroom in person. You can access your lectures, readings and assignments anytime and anywhere via the web or your mobile device.

Question 18

Can I just enroll in a single course?

Accepted Answer

Yes! To get started, click the course card that interests you and enroll. You can enroll and complete the course to earn a shareable certificate. When you subscribe to a course that is part of a Specialization, you’re automatically subscribed to the full Specialization. Visit your learner dashboard to track your progress.

Question 19

Is financial aid available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.

Question 20

Can I take the course for free?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot take this course for free. When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. If you cannot afford the fee, you can apply for financial aid.