PUBPOL 2100
Introduction to Statistics
The course introduces students to standard methods of describing and analyzing data, probability theory, statistical inference, and ordinary least squares. Students will learn to describe data with summary tables and charts, understand and apply probability theory to data, understand sampling distributions, conduct hypothesis tests, estimate regressions, and interpret statistical findings. Students will also learn to use the basics of Excel to analyze data.
Topics
- Describe large datasets using summary statistics including both central tendencies and spread.
- Use probability theory to evaluate the expected value of future events.
- Use inferential statistics tools to conduct hypothesis tests about proportions, means, and multiple means.
- Estimate basic regressions using both bivariate and multivariate ordinary least squares.
- Use Excel to conduct basic statistical, data, and graphical analysis.
Official roster learning outcomes
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027
- Catalogue entry ↗
Catalogue variants
- Introduction to Statistics · 4.0 · Undergraduate