Welcome to BST 273: Introduction to Programming

Hello, world!

BST 273 is an introductory course on computer programming in Python 3. Students will begin by exploring the fundamental elements of a computer program (e.g. variables, data objects, functions/methods, and flow of control) along with their associated Python syntax. In the second part of the course, students will gain familiarity with modules in the Python Standard Library for reading and writing data, interacting with external programs, and writing command-line interfaces. The course concludes with an introduction to a number of advanced topics, including scientific computing and Object-Oriented Design. Interspersed with programming content, students will be introduced to important related skills, such as debugging and command-line navigation.

The course consists of two 90-minute meetings per week, divided into lecture/discussion sections and hands-on activities. Students will complete weekly assignments to reinforce their new programming skills, starting with basic tests of new syntax and leading toward the completion of functional Python scripts. Each student will complete a final project (of their own design, or based on a template) that involves developing, testing, and documenting a Python script to solve a problem in data analysis.

Note: BST 273 is NOT intended as an introduction to the Python language for experienced programmers. Students with prior programming experience (excluding MATLAB and R) should consult with the instructor before enrolling.

Instructor & contact information

Dr. Eric Franzosa
Research Scientist
Biostatistics Department
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Contact Dr. Franzosa at franzosa@hsph.harvard.edu by including "BST 273" in your subject line OR message directly through Canvas.

Time & location

Fall 2, 2019
Mondays (M) and Wednesdays (W), 11:30-1pm
HSPH FXB G13

Additional Information

Please see the most recent version of the course syllabus under the "Course Documents" module.