Biostatistics (36 SCH)
The Master of Science (MS) concentration in Biostatistics (36 credit hours) is designed to train students in foundations of statistical theory as well as applications of statistical methods for use in public health, medicine, or other health related fields. The program focuses on the skills for data management, statistical analysis, interpretation of analytical results, presentation of the findings, and scientific communication. In addition to the fundamental courses in biostatistics, students in this program will take coursework in three areas currently in high demand in biostatistics: Bayesian data analysis, statistical genetics, and clinical trials. As the culminating experience of the program, students will write a discovery-based paper that meets current standards for publication in refereed journals. Graduates of the program will be prepared to apply to doctoral degree programs in biostatistics or to pursue research staff positions in health and medical centers, health departments, governmental agencies, the pharmaceutical industry, and consulting.
In addition to the general MS admissions requirements, applicants to this program are expected to have a strong background in univariate calculus, multivariate calculus, and linear algebra.
Full-time enrollment is required for all cohort programs, i.e., MPH, MS, and MHA. Students in the MPH and MS programs are expected to graduate in five consecutive semesters. Students in the MHA program are expected to graduate in either five or six consecutive semesters, depending upon when they decide, with advising, to complete their internship. Students follow a weekly calendar of curricular and co-curricular activity that occupies 8-hour blocks of time, Monday through Friday. Students are strictly prohibited from holding employment off-campus during semesters in which they are enrolled in courses.
By the conclusion of the Biostatistics MS program, a student will display competencies in these areas:
- Foundation - Translate mathematical and statistical foundations to biostatistics;
- Research Design - Design and critically evaluate study protocols in the health sciences;
- Data Management - Design and apply comprehensive data management strategies for health related studies;
- Data Analysis - Identify and apply suitable statistical methods for data analyses;
- Communication, Collaboration, and Consultation - Effectively communicate statistical information to health practitioners and professionals;
- Ethical Practice - Understand and abide by strict ethical standards in health related studies;
- Foundational Public Health Knowledge - History and application of public health perspective and factors related to population health.