Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: I have previously used SAS or R before in my statistics courses, but I have only a limited or no experience with any other programming languages. Will this be enough preparation for the course?

A: Likely not. The course will require a significant amount of programming and will move very fast. If you have never had instruction in a high-level programming language, you will likely fall behind. I recommend either taking a remedial programming course first. If you are enrolled (or planning to enroll) in Applied Statistics Masters Program, consider taking 598Z instead.

Q: Is there a required textbook for the course?

A: No. I do not know of a single textbook which will cover all of the course material at the level of detail appropriate for the course. I will use several textbooks and references, including some listed on the webpage, and will refer you to appropriate sections and make available additional notes on the topic.

Q: Will I become an expert programmer after taking the course?

A: This is not the goal of the course. Rather, I hope to provide you with fundamentals so that you will know how to start tackling challenging computational problems that you will encounter in your future.

Q: Is the lab attendance mandatory?

A: While lab attendance is not mandatory, it is highly suggested. The labs are likely your best opportunity to receive supervised programming instruction in this course while solidifying the concepts covered in lecture. Besides, some of the exercises in the labs may also be referred to in the homeworks or may even appear on the exams.