About

Developing Innovative Statistical Methods

Who can determine whether a medical treatment will work? Biostatisticians often can. By looking at empirical data, such as the outcome of a clinical trial, they can predict whether a medical treatment will help a sick patient.

In the Department of Biostatistics, we develop innovative statistical methods to address public health challenges. Our faculty provides leadership in public health and biomedical research efforts that have a major impact on the prevention and treatment of disease. Graduates from our program assume leadership positions in academia, government, and industry.

The department offers two degree programs in biostatistics (Master of Science or PhD) and has recently launched two new master's concentrations in Health Data Science and in Statistical and Computational Genetics.

Biostatistics programs are for students who have a mathematics background and a strong interest in biology and public health. The programs emphasize statistical theory and methods and will prepare you to design, execute, and collaborate on all types of studies as well as contribute to the methodological development of biostatistics. Approximately 65 percent of students in the department are pursuing doctoral degrees in biostatistics. PhD students may choose to specialize in statistical genetics.

History

Our department was one of the original four departments in the Graduate School of Public Health when it was founded in 1948. Learn more about our department's history.

Mission and Vision

Our commitment to training the next generation of biostatisticians.

Biostatistics Research Day

An annual departmental event that showcases student research and promotes interdisciplinary research among graduate students and faculty.