What is discrete mathematics?

Discrete mathematics refers to a group of mathematics branches that deal with discrete objects instead of continuous objects. In discrete mathematics, objects have distinct, separate values represented by integers, unlike real numbers used in continuous mathematics. Discrete mathematics includes combinatorics, set theory, graph theory, number theory, and probability. It is integral to computer science and plays a role in the field of data science.

Why learn discrete mathematics?

You may consider learning discrete mathematics if you want to study computer science or work in a data science field. Discrete mathematics is a foundation of computer science, and programmers often use principles of set theory, probability, and combinations to analyze algorithms when writing programs and applications. Learning discrete mathematics can also help boost other useful skills like logic, reasoning, and problem-solving, making you a more marketable job candidate.

What are typical careers that use discrete mathematics?

Typical careers that use discrete mathematics are in the computer science field, such as software development, programming, and cryptography. Data scientists and data analysts may use their knowledge of discrete mathematics in their work. Other careers that can incorporate discrete mathematics include electrical and mechanical engineers in addition to data analysts, business analysts, and market researchers. Discrete mathematics also influences the work of urban planners, epidemiologists, and social scientists who collect and analyze large amounts of data.

How can online courses help me learn discrete mathematics?

Online courses can introduce you to core concepts of discrete mathematics, such as sets, relations, and functions. Lessons include topics like partial orders, enumerative combinatorics, and the binomial coefficient, and you have opportunities to apply the concepts to real-world applications. You may choose courses that cover specific subjects like graph theory or probability to increase your knowledge of these disciplines. Alternatively, you may decide to take courses that explore the application of discrete mathematics in specific fields like data science, computer science, or machine learning.

What are the benefits of taking an online Discrete Mathematics course?

Online Discrete Mathematics courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Discrete Mathematics skills. Choose from a wide range of Discrete Mathematics courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

What Discrete Mathematics courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Discrete Math, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here .

Top Discrete Mathematics Courses - Learn Discrete Mathematics Online

Explore the Discrete Mathematics Course Catalog

Northwestern University
Modern Robotics, Course 3: Robot Dynamics
Skills you'll gain: Simulation and Simulation Software, Mathematical Modeling, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Calculations, Mechanics, Algorithms, Torque (Physics), Differential Equations, Control Systems, Applied Mathematics, Calculus
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
169 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Colorado Boulder
Quantum Mechanics for Engineers
Skills you'll gain: Estimation, Linear Algebra, Physics, Mechanics, Engineering Calculations, Probability, Applied Mathematics, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Differential Equations, Physical Science
Build toward a degree
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
97 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
University of Colorado Boulder
Battery State-of-Health (SOH) Estimation
Skills you'll gain: Estimation, Simulation and Simulation Software, Applied Mathematics, Laboratory Testing, Matlab, Performance Testing, Electric Power Systems, Mathematical Modeling, Statistical Methods, Electrical Engineering, Basic Electrical Systems, Scripting, Algorithms, Chemistry
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
157 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Universidad de los Andes
Fundamentos de estadística aplicada
Skills you'll gain: Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Descriptive Statistics, Statistical Methods, Data Analysis, Regression Analysis, Sampling (Statistics), Statistical Analysis, Probability & Statistics, Probability Distribution, Applied Mathematics, Statistical Inference
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
134 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Colorado Boulder
Statistical Inference and Hypothesis Testing in Data Science Applications
Skills you'll gain: Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Statistical Methods, Probability & Statistics, Data Ethics, Statistical Analysis, Quantitative Research, Statistical Inference, Statistics, Sample Size Determination, Sampling (Statistics)
Build toward a degree
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
50 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Mastering Statics
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Mechanics, Engineering Calculations, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Drawings, Geometry, Algebra, Applied Mathematics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
224 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Colorado Boulder
Modern Regression Analysis in R
Skills you'll gain: Statistical Inference, Statistical Modeling, Regression Analysis, Data Ethics, Statistical Methods, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Data Science, R Programming, Data Modeling, Statistical Analysis, Predictive Modeling, Probability & Statistics, Correlation Analysis, Forecasting, Linear Algebra
Build toward a degree
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
30 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
DeepLearning.AI
Applied Statistics for Data Analytics
Skills you'll gain: Probability & Statistics, Statistical Analysis, Statistics, Statistical Modeling, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Statistical Visualization, Descriptive Statistics, Data Analysis, Histogram, Probability, Probability Distribution, Correlation Analysis, Statistical Inference, Estimation, Simulation and Simulation Software, Sampling (Statistics), Analytical Skills, Spreadsheet Software, Generative AI
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
17 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Duke University
Think Again III: How to Reason Inductively
Skills you'll gain: Deductive Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Probability, Sampling (Statistics), Statistics, Correlation Analysis, Scientific Methods
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
397 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Tsinghua University
Data Structures and Algorithms (I)
Skills you'll gain: Data Structures, Algorithms, Theoretical Computer Science, Spatial Analysis, Computational Thinking, Computational Logic, Computer Programming
3.1
Rating, 3.1 out of 5 stars
33 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Introducción a los modelos de demanda de transporte
Skills you'll gain: Data Collection, Transportation Operations, Surveys, Quantitative Research, Mathematical Modeling, Predictive Modeling, Statistical Methods, Regression Analysis, Spatial Analysis, Probability Distribution, Probability
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
458 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Information Theory
Skills you'll gain: Digital Communications, Theoretical Computer Science, Telecommunications, Information Management, Probability, Probability Distribution, Technical Communication, Algorithms, General Mathematics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
163 reviews
Mixed · Course · 3 - 6 Months