Fundamentals of Analytics and Excel

Analytics is the foundation of smart decision-making. In this self-paced course, Ivey faculty Mehmet Begen guides you through the core principles of quantitative analysis and Excel, equipping you to interpret data, model decisions, and communicate insights with clarity.

Designed for professionals from all backgrounds, the course blends foundational theory with hands-on practice. You’ll explore functions, statistics, probability, decision trees, and Excel tools that support everyday business analysis. Through interactive modules, self-assessments, and summary sessions, you’ll build the confidence to apply analytical thinking in your role.

You’ll leave with a solid understanding of core analytics concepts, a digital certificate, and the ability to use Excel and quantitative tools to solve problems and lead with data.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Use linear and quadratic functions to model business relationships and trends
• Summarize and interpret data using measures of central tendency and dispersion
• Apply probability concepts and distributions to assess risk and uncertainty
• Build and analyze decision trees to evaluate strategic options
• Use Excel to perform calculations, run scenarios, and visualize data

This self-paced course includes approximately 10 hours of content, designed to be completed within a 90-day window. You’ll progress through interactive modules, complete knowledge checks, and receive instant feedback through our AI-first LMS.

Course Roadmap

Module 1: Linear and Quadratic Functions

Start with the fundamentals of mathematical modeling. This module introduces linear and quadratic functions, helping you understand how relationships and trends are represented in business data. You’ll practice graphing and interpreting these functions through guided assessments.

Module 2: Descriptive Statistics

Learn how to summarize and interpret data using measures of central tendency and dispersion. This module helps you turn raw data into meaningful insights, with hands-on practice calculating averages, ranges, and variability.

Module 3: Probability and Distributions

Explore how probability and distributions shape business risk and uncertainty. You’ll work with histograms and normal distributions to understand data patterns and apply statistical reasoning to real-world scenarios.

Module 4: Decision Trees

Discover how decision trees help structure complex choices. This module walks you through building and interpreting decision trees to evaluate outcomes, risks, and payoffs—supporting strategic thinking and scenario planning.

Module 5: Introduction to Microsoft Excel

Strengthen your Excel skills with a focus on analytical applications. You’ll learn how to use functions like SUM, logic formulas, descriptive statistics, net present value, and Goal Seek—empowering you to work more efficiently and insightfully.

Module 6: Summary Sessions

Reinforce your learning with curated takeaways from each module. This final session helps consolidate your understanding of key concepts and prepares you to apply them confidently in your role.

Dates & Fees

Start anytime

Duration: ~10 hours (self-paced)

Access: 90 days from enrollment

Tuition: $500 CAD

Certificate: Digital credential upon completion

No prerequisites required. Enroll anytime and learn at your own pace.

This course is part of Ivey Essentials bundle. Complete all six to earn a certificate in foundational business skills.

This course is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their analytical thinking and Excel fluency to support better business decisions. No prior analytics or Excel experience is required.

Ideal participants include:

• Managers and analysts seeking to interpret data and model decisions
• Entrepreneurs and product leaders using data to guide strategy
• Professionals preparing for an MBA or executive program
• Learners looking to sharpen their quantitative and problem-solving skills