Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - STAT 271 D100

Probability and Statistics for Computing Science (3)

Class Number: 4560

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Feb 4, 2026
    Wed, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Mar 11, 2026
    Wed, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    CMPT 210 with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

This is an introductory course in probability and statistics that is designed for Computer Science students. Mainly covers basic probability theory and statistical methods for designing and analyzing computing algorithms and systems. Topics include continuous probability distributions, random variables, multivariate normal distributions, parameter estimation and inference theory, as well as design and analysis of statistical studies, including hypothesis testing and presentation of statistical data.

COURSE DETAILS:

Outline:

  1. Review of discrete distributions.
  2. Descriptive Statistics.
  3. Continuous distributions: random variables, density functions, joint distributions, independence, moments, law of large numbers, uniform, normal and other distributions.
  4. Sampling: sample mean and variance, central limit theorem.
  5. Parameter estimation: moment estimators, maximum likelihood estimators, confidence intervals.
  6. Hypothesis testing: type I, type II errors, significance level, tests for mean of normal.
  7. Linear regression and gradient descent.
  8. Analysis of variance.
  9. Principal Component Analysis.

Grading

  • Assignments/Quizzes 15%
  • Midterm 1 - In-person - Burnaby Campus - Wed, Feb 4th: 5.30-7.30 pm 25%
  • Midterm 2 - In-person - Burnaby Campus - Wed, Mar 11th: 5.30-7.30 pm 25%
  • Final exam 35%

NOTES:

Above grading is subject to change.

There will be no make-up midterms.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Introduction to Probability and Statistics for Engineers and Scientists, 6th edition, Sheldon M Ross, Academic Press
ISBN: 978-0-12-824346-6

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with Disabilities:
Students requiring accommodations as a result of disability must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning 778-782-3112 or caladmin@sfu.ca.  


Tutor Requests:
Students looking for a tutor should visit https://www.sfu.ca/stat-actsci/all-students/other-resources/tutoring.html. We accept no responsibility for the consequences of any actions taken related to tutors.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.