A CU Boulder course on Coursera (Manuel Laguna) that teaches how to turn data into decisions using spreadsheet-based modelling — decision analysis, optimisation and Monte Carlo simulation. It is decision-focused and needs no technical background, making it a practical choice for managers who want analytics without coding.
Good for: Managers who want data-driven decision tools without coding.
Less suitable if: You want programming-based analytics (Python/R) or advanced data science.
Skills you'll gain
Business analyticsDecision analysisOptimisationMonte Carlo simulationSpreadsheet modellingDecision-making
Is this course right for you?
A good fit if you…
You want analytics without coding
You make decisions under uncertainty
You are comfortable in spreadsheets
Consider something else if you…
You want Python/R analytics
You want advanced data science
You already model decisions quantitatively
Requirements: Comfort with spreadsheets; no technical background needed.
Realistic time: Around 12–15 hours over a few weeks.
About this course
Business Analytics for Decision Making teaches how to turn data into decisions using spreadsheet-based modelling. From CU Boulder and instructor Manuel Laguna, it covers decision analysis, optimisation, and Monte Carlo simulation — the tools managers use to choose between options under uncertainty — without requiring a technical background.
What you'll learn
Structure business problems as decision models
Apply optimisation to find the best option
Use Monte Carlo simulation to handle uncertainty
Analyse decisions with data rather than gut feel
Build models in a spreadsheet
Communicate analytics-based recommendations
This course includes
Yes
Certificate
Yes
Mobile access
English
Language
What it costs
You can audit the course free on Coursera. A certificate needs a Coursera subscription (about $49/month) or Coursera Plus, with financial aid available.
Comparison · LBS
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A CU Boulder certificate on Coursera is a credible learning record. It is a course certificate rather than a professional qualification or degree.
Instructor
ML
Manuel Laguna
Coursera instructor
Manuel Laguna is a professor at CU Boulder's Leeds School of Business and a recognised expert in operations research and business analytics. The course reflects his applied, decision-modelling approach.