OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
Sorry, this page is no longer available
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
Coursera logo

Summary Statistics in Public Health

John McGready, PhD, MS

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.

Enroll now

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until March 12, 2027
Save 40% Off 3 Months
Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.
Take
40%
off
Get offer

What's inside

Syllabus

The Role of Statistics in Public Health Research
Within this learning module, you will learn how statistics are used within public heath research. Topics covered include study design types, data types, and data summarization. You will complete a practice quiz before completing a graded quiz.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by John McGready, PhD, MS, a recognized expert in biostatistics
Designed for individuals in public health research seeking to strengthen their statistical reasoning skills
Covers a comprehensive range of biostatistical methods commonly used in public health research
Involves hands-on exercises and real-world data analysis, providing practical experience
Provides a solid foundation for understanding and interpreting statistical data in public health research
Course format and assessments include lectures, practice quizzes, graded quizzes, and a project, offering a variety of learning experiences

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Foundational statistics for public health

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in summary statistics for public health. Many found the lectures clear and the pace appropriate, especially for beginners, helping to build understanding of key concepts like the normal distribution and binary data. The quizzes and project helped reinforce learning. However, some more advanced learners found the material too basic, while some beginners noted challenges with the math requirements or difficulty with certain quiz questions. Overall, it's considered a valuable introductory course from a reputable institution.
Level of detail varies, not for all.
"The course was too basic for someone with prior statistics knowledge."
"I felt the pace was a bit slow initially, but then some later topics were rushed."
"Could have gone into a little more depth on the Kaplan-Meier curve."
Excellent starting point for newcomers.
"This course is perfect if you are new to statistics in public health."
"As someone with limited background, I found this course manageable and helpful."
"Great entry-level course for understanding basic biostatistics."
Instructor explains topics well.
"The instructor explained complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand."
"Lectures were well-structured and very clear."
"I appreciated the clear explanations provided throughout the modules."
Builds strong understanding of core stats.
"The course provided a clear and concise overview of summary statistics."
"I felt I built a solid understanding of concepts like normal distribution and binary data."
"Good introduction to the basics of biostatistics for public health."
Assessments can be difficult for some.
"Some of the quiz questions were unexpectedly difficult and required more background knowledge."
"I struggled with the math required for the quizzes, wishing there were more practice problems."
"The quizzes didn't always feel aligned with the lecture material."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Summary Statistics in Public Health with these activities:
Organize and Review Course Materials
Enhance your learning experience by organizing and reviewing course notes, assignments, and readings.
Show steps
  • Gather and organize all course-related materials, including notes, slides, assignments, and readings.
  • Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding and identify areas for further clarification.
Read Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in Health Science
Enhance your foundational understanding of biostatistics and prepare for the upcoming course materials.
View Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book and gather necessary materials.
  • Read and understand the key concepts and definitions.
  • Complete the practice problems and exercises to test your understanding.
Statistical Calculations Practice
Sharpen your statistical calculation skills to support your coursework and improve your confidence in handling data.
Show steps
  • Identify online platforms or textbooks that provide statistical calculation practice problems.
  • Solve a variety of problems covering mean, median, standard deviation, and other statistical measures.
  • Check your answers and identify areas for improvement.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Join a Biostatistics Study Group
Collaborate with peers to enhance your understanding and reinforce course concepts.
Show steps
  • Reach out to classmates or join online forums to form a study group.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials, solve problems, and quiz each other.
Seek Mentorship from a Biostatistician
Gain valuable guidance and insights by connecting with a professional biostatistician.
Show steps
  • Identify and reach out to potential mentors in academia, research institutions, or the industry.
  • Schedule regular meetings to discuss your progress, seek advice, and receive feedback.
Attend a Biostatistics Workshop
Deepen your knowledge and gain practical insights from experts by attending a biostatistics workshop.
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant biostatistics workshops in your area or online.
  • Register for the workshop and make necessary arrangements.
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.
Develop a Statistical Analysis Plan
Apply your knowledge by creating a comprehensive statistical analysis plan for a research project, demonstrating your ability to design and execute statistical analyses.
Show steps
  • Identify a research question or problem that requires statistical analysis.
  • Define the objectives of the statistical analysis and determine the appropriate statistical methods.
  • Collect and prepare the data for analysis, ensuring data quality and integrity.
  • Conduct the statistical analysis using appropriate software or tools.
  • Interpret the results and draw meaningful conclusions.
Volunteer at a Health Research Organization
Gain hands-on experience in biostatistics by volunteering at a health research organization.
Show steps
  • Identify health research organizations in your area and explore volunteer opportunities.
  • Apply for a volunteer position that aligns with your interests and skills.
  • Assist with data collection, analysis, or other biostatistics-related tasks under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Participate in a Biostatistics Competition
Challenge yourself and showcase your biostatistics skills by participating in a competition.
Show steps
  • Research and identify biostatistics competitions relevant to your level of expertise.
  • Form a team or work individually to prepare for the competition.
  • Apply and participate in the competition, demonstrating your problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Career center

Learners who complete Summary Statistics in Public Health will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians gather, analyze, and interpret large amounts of biological data. The field of public health plays a major role in the work of these professionals. Success as a Biostatistician requires understanding statistical measurement methods. The course Summary Statistics in Public Health will build a foundation for your career in Biostatistics by providing you with insights into this area of statistical reasoning within the public health field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biostatistician
Epidemiologist
Epidemiology is all about studying patterns of health and illness in populations. Courses in statistics, like Summary Statistics in Public Health, are essential to careers in this field. Epidemiologists use statistical methods to analyze and interpret data, and this course will provide you with the necessary skills to excel in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Data Analyst
Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data, which is used to make informed decisions. Statistical methods, like those learned in Summary Statistics in Public Health, are a core skill in the field of Data Analytics. This course will help you develop these skills and prepare you to succeed in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Public Health Researcher
Public Health Researchers investigate various health issues that impact communities and populations. Statistical knowledge is essential for this field to effectively analyze and interpret data, making Summary Statistics in Public Health a valuable course for those pursuing a career in this area. The course provides a solid foundation in statistical measurement methods, which are crucial for conducting research in the public health field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Researcher
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultants provide guidance and expertise in healthcare-related matters. Understanding statistical methods in public health is beneficial for success in this role. Summary Statistics in Public Health offers a valuable opportunity to develop these skills and gain insights into statistics within healthcare, which can enhance your impact as a Healthcare Consultant.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Consultant
Medical Writer
Medical Writers specialize in creating scientific and medical content. Statistical knowledge is increasingly becoming important in this field. The course Summary Statistics in Public Health can help you build a foundation in statistical measurement methods, which are necessary for accurately interpreting and conveying medical information in your writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Writer
Health Educator
Health Educators aim to improve health outcomes by promoting healthy behaviors and lifestyles. Statistical methods are often used in this field to evaluate the effectiveness of health education programs. The course Summary Statistics in Public Health provides essential skills and knowledge in this area. By taking this course, you will be well-equipped to design and evaluate health education interventions effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical Research Coordinators play a crucial role in the field of clinical research. Statistical methods are often utilized in this role, making the Summary Statistics in Public Health course a beneficial choice. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to understand and apply statistical methods in clinical research, enhancing your ability to manage and conduct clinical trials.
See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Research Coordinator
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts focus on analyzing and evaluating health policies. Statistical methods are essential for this field to conduct research and make evidence-based recommendations. Summary Statistics in Public Health provides a strong foundation in statistical methods, enabling you to understand and interpret health data effectively. This course will empower you to contribute significantly to health policy development and analysis.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst
Public Health Administrator
Public Health Administrators oversee and manage public health programs and services. Statistical methods play a crucial role in this field. Summary Statistics in Public Health will provide you with a solid foundation in statistical measurement methods, which are essential for analyzing data, evaluating programs, and making informed decisions in public health administration.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Administrator
Health Data Analyst
Health Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, managing, and analyzing health-related data. Statistical methods are necessary for this role. Summary Statistics in Public Health provides a comprehensive overview of statistical measurement methods used in the field of health data analysis. This course will equip you with the skills to effectively analyze and interpret health data for improving patient outcomes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Data Analyst
Disease Surveillance Specialist
Disease Surveillance Specialists monitor and investigate disease outbreaks. Statistical methods are critical in this field to analyze and interpret data. The course Summary Statistics in Public Health provides a solid foundation in statistical measurement methods. By taking this course, you will gain the skills necessary to excel as a Disease Surveillance Specialist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Disease Surveillance Specialist
Environmental Health Scientist
Environmental Health Scientists investigate the impact of environmental factors on public health. Statistical methods are increasingly used in this field. The course Summary Statistics in Public Health offers valuable insights into statistical measurement methods, which can enhance your ability to analyze environmental data and understand the relationship between environmental factors and health outcomes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Health Scientist
Health Economist
Health Economists analyze the cost and value of healthcare services. Statistical methods are commonly used in this field. By taking the course Summary Statistics in Public Health, you will gain a foundation in statistical measurement methods and their application in healthcare economics. This knowledge will enable you to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare interventions, contribute to healthcare policy, and improve the overall health of populations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Economist
Healthcare Statistician
Healthcare Statisticians apply statistical methods to address healthcare-related questions. Summary Statistics in Public Health provides a foundational understanding of statistical measurement methods commonly used in healthcare. This course will help you develop the skills necessary to collect, analyze, and interpret health data. With this knowledge, you can contribute to improving patient care and health outcomes in various healthcare settings.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Statistician

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Summary Statistics in Public Health .
Cover image
Modern Epidemiology
Save
This classic textbook on epidemiology provides a thorough grounding in the principles and methods of this essential public health discipline, making it an excellent supplementary resource for this course.
Modern Epidemiology
Paperback
$$$
Modern Epidemiology
Hardcover
$$$$
Modern Epidemiology
Kindle Edition
$$$
Modern Epidemiology
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to biostatistics, covering a wide range of topics from basic concepts to advanced statistical methods. It is an excellent resource for students and researchers in public health who want to gain a strong foundation in biostatistical methods.
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics (with CD-ROM)
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics (with Data Disk)
Hardcover
$$
Fundamentals of biostatistics
Hardcover
$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics/Book and Disk 4th...
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics [FUNDAMENTALS OF...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics by Bernard Rosner...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Essentials of Biostatistics for Public Health
Save
This concise and accessible textbook covers the statistical principles and techniques commonly used in public health research, complementing the course's focus on summary statistics and data analysis.
Essentials of Biostatistics for Public Health...
Paperback
$$$
Essentials of Biostatistics in Public Health...
Paperback
$$$
Essentials of Biostatistics in Public Health
Paperback
$$
Navigate 2 Advantage Access For Essentials Of...
Unknown Binding
$
Essentials of Biostatistics (Essential Public...
Paperback
$$$$
Out of Print: Essentials of Biostatistics in Public...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
By Lisa M. Sullivan Christine Sullivan - Essentials...
Unknown Binding
$$$
Cover image
Medical Statistics
Save
Provides a practical guide to statistical methods for public health practitioners. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to more advanced methods, and includes many examples and exercises to help readers understand and apply the material.
Medical Statistics: A Guide to SPSS, Data Analysis...
Paperback
$$
Medical Statistics: A Guide to SPSS, Data Analysis...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Health Measurement Scales
Save
This comprehensive book covers a wide range of quantitative methods used in health research, including statistical analysis, data management, and research design, offering a more in-depth exploration of these topics.
Health Measurement Scales: A practical guide to...
Paperback
$$
Health Measurement Scales
Paperback
$$$
Health Measurement Scales: A practical guide to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Health Measurement Scales: A practical guide to...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Statistical Methods for Rates and Proportions
Save
Provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of statistical methods specifically used in the health sciences, covering topics relevant to the course's focus on data analysis and interpretation.
Statistical Methods for Rates & Proportions
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Applied Epidemiology
Save
This comprehensive guide to epidemiology provides a practical and hands-on approach to understanding and applying epidemiological principles, enhancing the course's focus on data analysis and interpretation.
Applied Epidemiology: Theory to Practice
Hardcover
$$$$
Applied Epidemiology: Theory to Practice...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Statistics for Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Save
Provides a gentle introduction to statistics for students in the health and biomedical sciences. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to more advanced methods, and includes many examples and exercises to help readers understand and apply the material.
Statistics for Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Paperback
$$$
Statistics for Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Introduction to Health Research Methods: A...
Save
This practical guide to health research methods provides valuable insights into the design, implementation, and analysis of health研究, complementing the course's focus on research methodologies and data analysis techniques.
Introduction to Health Research Methods: A...
Paperback
$$$
Introduction To Health Research Methods: A...
Paperback
$$
Introduction to Health Research Methods: A...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Response Surfaces: Designs and Analyses
Save
This textbook provides a foundational introduction to biostatistics, covering the basic concepts and methods used in the field. It serves as a useful prerequisite or background reading for the course's more advanced topics.
Response Surfaces: Designs and Analyses: Second...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Drug Information: A Guide for Pharmacists, 7th...
Save
Provides a self-paced introduction to survival analysis, which specialized statistical method used to analyze data on time-to-event outcomes. It offers additional depth and breadth to the course's coverage of statistical techniques.
Drug Information: A Guide for Pharmacists, 7th...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Unhealthy Societies
Save
This concise and accessible introduction to epidemiology provides a broader context for the course's focus on data analysis and interpretation within public health research.
Unhealthy Societies
Paperback
$$$
Unhealthy Societies: The Afflictions of Inequality
Kindle Edition
$$

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Summary Statistics in Public Health .
Using probability distributions for real world problems...
Most relevant
Investigating Epidemics like COVID-19: An Analyst's Guide
Most relevant
Multiple Regression Analysis in Public Health
Most relevant
An Intuitive Introduction to Probability
Most relevant
Diabetes Disease Detection with XG-Boost and Neural...
Most relevant
The exposome: cracking the science about what makes us...
Most relevant
Data Analysis with Spreadsheets and SQL
Most relevant
Simple Regression Analysis in Public Health
Most relevant
Introduction to Statistics
Most relevant

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Accredited University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions; free audit option available on most individual courses to explore video lectures and readings at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Refund Guarantee

14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus subscriptions and single-course purchases prior to certificate issuance. Monthly subscriptions do not offer refunds once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Accredited university and industry certifications (e.g. Stanford, Google, IBM, Yale), secure SSL payment processing, and verifiable digital certificate links.

Key Purchase Protections
14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus and single courses
7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions
Free course audit option for lectures and readings
Verified certificates from top universities & companies
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 3-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Johns Hopkins University
Instructor
John McGready, PhD, MS
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called Biostatistics in Public Health . It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Hypothesis Testing in Public Health
  2. Multiple Regression Analysis in Public Health
  3. Summary Statistics in Public Health (viewing)
  4. Simple Regression Analysis in Public Health
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by John McGready, PhD, MS, a recognized expert in biostatistics
Designed for individuals in public health research seeking to strengthen their statistical reasoning skills
Covers a comprehensive range of biostatistical methods commonly used in public health research
Involves hands-on exercises and real-world data analysis, providing practical experience
Provides a solid foundation for understanding and interpreting statistical data in public health research
Course format and assessments include lectures, practice quizzes, graded quizzes, and a project, offering a variety of learning experiences
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Summary Statistics in Public Health.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser