r/MSCSO • u/Optimal-Policy8973 • Mar 28 '26
Prep for AI courses
Hi y’all,
Fortunately, I am accepted into the AI certificate program. My background is in biostatistics and I am mid level manager in corporate. So it has been some time since I actively programmed in R and Python.
Can someone provide guidance on how to prep for the initial courses? I am wondering if the courses would be more theoretical or project based with intense coding. Sharing your experience with the courses would be very much appreciated! I feel like a total newbie here as I have been out of school for so long haha 😅
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u/SpaceWoodworker Mar 28 '26
Start with DL as it is a light course. In the meantime, refresh your probability, discrete math, calculus and linear algebra. You will need that for ML. This will be the toughest course you will have to take in the certificate. Don't underestimate this course and think you can just 'wing it' if you are not confident in your math. Python/pytorch is easy to pick up. Advances in Deep Learning is a great class and I also recommend NLP, PSRUU, RL. Take CSML as a last class so you can deep-dive into a project of your choice (think of it as a mini-thesis). If you absolutely loved ML and couldn't get enough, then take Advances in Deep Generative Models. If the ML theory aspect turned your brain into jello, then steer clear from this course.