• Course
  • Deep Learning Specialization

Deep Learning Specialization
Review

Become a Machine Learning expert. Master the fundamentals of deep learning and break into AI.

Medium
  • Last updated 01/01/2023
by Andrew Ng

What you'll learn ? Overview

The Deep Learning Specialization is a foundational program that helps you understand the capabilities, challenges, and consequences of deep learning and prepares you to participate in the development of cutting-edge AI technology. It consists of five courses covering essential topics in deep learning.

Throughout the specialization, you will build and train neural network architectures such as Convolutional Neural Networks, Recurrent Neural Networks, LSTMs, Transformers, and learn how to make them better with strategies such as Dropout, BatchNorm, Xavier/He initialization, and more. You'll master theoretical concepts and their industry applications using Python and TensorFlow, tackling real-world cases such as speech recognition, music synthesis, chatbots, machine translation, natural language processing, and more.

This specialization is designed for learners with a basic understanding of machine learning looking to enhance their skills in deep learning and AI applications. It provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the field of artificial intelligence.

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Is this course for you?

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Prior experience needed

Intermediate (Some Foundational Knowledge Recommended)

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Time commitment

moderate Moderate (5–10 Hours/Week)

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Learning style

Self-Paced (Work On Your Own Schedule)

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Goal

Learn A New Skill

Best suited for:

Aspiring AI professionals, software engineers looking to specialize in machine learning, data scientists wanting to deepen their knowledge of neural networks

Instructor

Andrew Ng

AI Pioneer and Education Innovator Legitimacy Score: 10/10
Andrew Ng is a globally recognized leader in AI, renowned for his groundbreaking work in machine learning and deep learning. As a co-founder of Coursera and founder of deeplearning.ai, he has democratized AI education, reaching millions of students worldwide. Ng's contributions span academia, industry, and entrepreneurship, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the AI landscape.
Ng's career is marked by significant milestones. He served as the founding lead of Google Brain, Chief Scientist at Baidu, and co-chairman of Coursera. His academic journey includes roles as a professor at Stanford University and director of its AI Lab. In 2017, Ng founded Landing AI to help companies adopt AI technologies. His work has consistently pushed the boundaries of AI research and application.
• Time 100 Most Influential People (2013)
• Fast Company's Most Creative People (2014)
• Fortune 40 Under 40 (2016)
• Developed one of the world's most advanced autonomous helicopters at Stanford
• Led the Google Brain project, resulting in breakthrough deep learning algorithms
• Co-founded Coursera, revolutionizing online education
• Founded deeplearning.ai to provide specialized AI education
• Launched AI Fund, a $175 million investment vehicle for AI startups
• Appointed to Amazon's Board of Directors in 2024
• TED Talk: 'How AI Can Save Our Humanity' (2018)
• World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, Davos (multiple years)
• AI for Everyone: Live Q&A with Andrew Ng (Coursera event, 2019)
• Stanford HAI 2019 Fall Conference keynote speaker
• EmTech Digital 2021 by MIT Technology Review
• AI Summit Silicon Valley 2022 keynote speaker
• Collision Conference 2023 featured speaker
Andrew Ng cultivates a robust digital footprint, regularly sharing AI insights and educational content across platforms. His LinkedIn posts often delve into AI trends and ethical considerations, while his Twitter feed offers a mix of industry news and personal reflections on AI's societal impact. Ng's YouTube channel features in-depth lectures and interviews, serving as a valuable resource for AI enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Course Details

  • ⏱ Duration150
  • 📶 DifficultyMedium
  • ⌛ Access Lifetime
  • ⏰ Time investmentModerate (5–10 Hours/Week)
  • 🧠 PrerequisitesBasic Python programming, understanding of linear algebra and machine learning fundamentals
  • 💻 RequirementsComputer with internet access, Python environment (instructions provided)
  • 💸 Hidden CostsNone reported beyond the course fee
  • 🙋‍♂️ Support OptionsDiscussion forums, peer support, teaching staff assistance

Course content

  • Course 1: Neural Networks and Deep Learning
  • Course 2: Improving Deep Neural Networks: Hyperparameter Tuning, Regularization and Optimization
  • Course 3: Structuring Machine Learning Projects
  • Course 4: Convolutional Neural Networks
  • Course 5: Sequence Models

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Feedbacks

Overall sentiment

Highly positive, with many praising the course's comprehensive content and Andrew Ng's teaching style

Praised points

- Clear explanations of complex concepts
- Practical coding exercises that reinforce learning
- Industry-relevant skills and knowledge

Criticisms

- Some find the math challenging
- Outdated elements in earlier versions (though updates have addressed this)
- Time-consuming for those with busy schedules

Testimonials

"This course gave me a strong foundation in deep learning." - John D.
"Andrew Ng's explanations are crystal clear." - Sarah M.
"The programming assignments were challenging but rewarding." - Mike L.
"I landed a job in AI thanks to this specialization." - Emily R.
"Best online course I've ever taken on machine learning." - Alex T.

Social insights

Many users on Reddit and Quora recommend this specialization as an excellent starting point for deep learning, praising its structured approach and Andrew Ng's teaching.

Video review

Marketing Analysis

Claim Verification

The course promises to teach deep learning fundamentals and practical skills, which aligns with reported outcomes from students and industry recognition

Price History

Price has remained relatively stable since launch, with occasional promotions

Upsell Practices

Additional courses and specializations are advertised but not aggressively pushed

Student Success

Many students report career advancements and successful AI projects after completion

Platform & Delivery

Learning Platform

Coursera - known for its user-friendly interface and reliable video streaming

Content Accessibility

Videos, readings, and assignments are downloadable for offline access

Mobile Compatibility

Coursera app allows for learning on mobile devices

Technical Requirements

Standard computer with internet connection, no special hardware needed

Red flags check

😬

Complaints

No significant complaints or disputes found

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Refund policy issues

Coursera's standard refund policy applies, no specific issues reported

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Marketing practices

Transparent, with clear course descriptions and expectations

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Community feedback

Overwhelmingly positive, with few concerns

Is this course legit?

Value For Money

High value for the comprehensive content and industry recognition

Conclusion

The Deep Learning Specialization is a legitimate, high-quality course that delivers on its promises. It's highly recommended for those serious about pursuing a career in AI and deep learning.

FAQs about this course

The specialization is designed to be completed in about 5 months, studying 5-10 hours per week. However, being self-paced, learners can adjust this timeline to fit their schedule.

Basic Python programming skills are recommended. The course provides some guidance, but familiarity with programming concepts will be beneficial.

While there's no direct job placement, the skills learned are highly valued in the industry. Many students report improved job prospects after completion.

Yes, Coursera offers financial aid for learners who cannot afford the course fee. You need to apply and qualify for assistance.

The specialization is regularly updated to reflect current deep learning practices. The last major update was in 2023, incorporating the latest developments in the field.
thumbnail Images
$ 49
Total score: 9,0/10 ⭐
  • Duration150
  • DifficultyMedium
  • Release Date01/01/2017
  • Format Self-Paced
  • AccessLifetime
  • Time InvestmentModerate (5–10 Hours/Week)
  • Payment Options Installments
  • LanguageEnglish
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Deep Learning Specialization Review