Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/math-mba-gmat-prep
**Course Review: Math for MBA and GMAT Prep on Coursera** As individuals prepare to pursue their MBA degrees or ready themselves for the GMAT, a common hurdle arises: a lack of proficiency in mathematics and statistics. Enter Coursera’s course, *Math for MBA and GMAT Prep*, designed to bridge this gap. Taught by Professor Thomas Smith, this online course serves as a valuable resource for those who may not have a strong quantitative background but wish to build confidence in their mathematical abilities. ### Course Overview The *Math for MBA and GMAT Prep* course offers a comprehensive introduction to essential statistical concepts and techniques that students will encounter in business environments. The curriculum focuses on disciplines such as descriptive statistics, data visualization, linear equations, basic algebra, calculus, and regression analysis—each fundamental blocks in understanding complex business analytics. ### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Introduction** - In this opening module, students meet their instructor, Professor Thomas Smith, and have the opportunity to introduce themselves. This personal touch sets a welcoming tone for the course and encourages community engagement. 2. **Descriptive Statistics** - Here, foundational statistical concepts such as means, medians, modes, and standard deviations are explored. This module lays the groundwork for understanding how data can represent business scenarios. 3. **Data and Data Visualization: Excel Tools and Techniques** - Given the prevalence of data in decision-making, students learn to utilize Excel for data visualization. This is a critical skill for any MBA student, enabling them to present data in an engaging and understandable format. 4. **Equations and Inverting Equations (Algebra Refresher)** - This algebra refresher is perfect for students who may be intimidated by mathematical equations. It focuses on simplifying complex ideas, making them digestible and relevant to real-world applications. 5. **Common Business Concepts** - Students will learn how to apply math in business scenarios, reinforcing their problem-solving skills in practical settings. This module connects theory with practice, demonstrating how objective data can inform business strategies. 6. **Calculus and Marginal Analysis in a Business Context** - By offering a solid overview of calculus, along with marginal analysis, this module equips students with the tools to understand optimization problems and cost analysis, which are essential in business decision-making. 7. **Regression Analysis** - The course concludes with regression analysis, teaching students how to interpret and utilize regression coefficients. Understanding the relationships between variables is crucial for effective business forecasting. ### Course Benefits * **Accessibility for All Backgrounds**: The course explicitly addresses those coming from non-mathematical disciplines, making it ideal for prospective MBA students who may feel disadvantaged due to their previous education. * **Practical Application**: Emphasis on real-world business applications ensures that students not only learn theoretical concepts but also understand their practical utility in the business world. * **Interactive Learning Environment**: The introduction module fosters a sense of community among students, promoting discussion and collaboration which enhance the learning experience. * **Hands-on Experience with Excel**: As proficiency in Excel is crucial for business professionals, this course provides practical learning that will directly benefit participants in their academic and professional journeys. ### Recommendation If you're preparing for an MBA program or need to brush up on your mathematical skills before tackling the GMAT, I wholeheartedly recommend enrolling in *Math for MBA and GMAT Prep* on Coursera. Professor Thomas Smith’s structured approach and the course’s practical, business-focused content make it an invaluable resource for students looking to strengthen their quantitative skills. This course will not only prepare you for academic success but also empower you with the confidence to embrace data-driven decisions in your future career.
Introduction
Get to know your professor, Thomas Smith, and introduce yourself.
Descriptive StatisticsThis module covers means, medians, modes, standard deviations, and foundational statistics concepts.
Data and Data Visualization: Excel Tools and TechniquesThis module presents Excel tools and techniques for data visualization.
Equations and Inverting Equations (Algebra Refresher)In this module, refresh your algebra skills with equations.
Common Business ConceptsThis module covers common business concepts and mathematical applications to business settings.
Calculus and Marginal Analysis in a Business ContextThis module will provide an overview of calculus and marginal analysis.
Regression AnalysisThis module will provide an overview of regressions and coefficients.
This course gives participants a basic understanding of statistics as they apply in business situations. A fair share of students considering MBA programs come from backgrounds that do not include a large amount of training in mathematics and statistics. Often, students find themselves at a disadvantage when they apply for or enroll in MBA programs. This course will give you the tools to understand how these business statistics are calculated for navigating the built-in formulas that are include
I am very happy to have completed the course. Many thanks to Professor T. Smith, Emory University and Coursera!
Dr. Smith explained everything so well. His teaching style made even complex concepts understandable very quickly with his ability to tie in real-world examples.
The video content & practice exercises were great! A few assessment questions were missing some required information, but still giving it a 5 star for quality content. Thank you!
Thanks Professor Smith a lot for your interesting course. I have learned a lot and will utilize this for my next year MBA study.