The Department of Statistics offers programs leading to a Professional Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Biostatistics (as well as Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Statistics, described elsewhere). The M.S. in Biostatistics requires 31 credits. Qualified full-time students are expected to complete the program in three to four semesters. The program focuses on practical skills and rigorous training in modern areas of biostatistics to solve problems in public health, health services and policy, biomedical research, and other areas such as environmental health and ecology. Students completing this program successfully will acquire expertise in topics including statistical inference, regression analysis, design and analysis of clinical trials and epidemiological studies, bioinformatics, programming in SAS and R, data management, and consulting. Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in any major who have a background in mathematics and statistics are encouraged to apply.

Required Courses: BIST 5091 or 5092, 5215, 5225; BIST 5505–5605; BIST 5585–5685; BIST 5625, 5635.

Required Electives: One of the following courses: BIST 5615, 5645, or 5655. One additional course: BIST 5515, 5615, 5645, 5655, 5705, or 5815.

The final requirement is passing the Master’s Examination which is a written test on basic understanding of course materials. There is no thesis requirement.

Note: In order to be considered for a possible switch to the Ph.D. program or for financial support, a M.S. in Biostatistics student must first clear the Ph.D. Qualifying Examination.

The program is offered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.