PhD, Biostatistics

1. Understand the theoretical foundations of biostatistical methods.
2. Critically review scientific literature and evaluate the appropriateness of statistical methods and their applications.
3. Conduct advanced statistical inferences that are appropriate to specific study designs and data structures.
4. Prepare written reports of statistical analyses for journal publication, grant applications, and review by regulatory agencies.
5. Demonstrate skills in public health data management.
6. Effectively communicate results of statistical analyses to lay and professional audiences.
7. Develop novel statistical methodology applicable to public health and biomedical research.
8. Develop methodological manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed statistical or biostatistical journals.

Students in the PhD in Biostatistics will acquire a foundation in statistical theory, inference, and applied methods. Apply advanced coursework, hands-on data analysis experience, and interdisciplinary research opportunities to develop innovative statistical methodologies, interpret complex health data, and contribute to solutions for public health challenges. Graduates are prepared to lead novel data-driven research.

The Ph.D. in Biostatistics offers two pathways depending on the student’s prior qualifications. For students with a relevant master's degree (MS/MPH in Biostatistics), the program requires 48 total credits: 36 course credits and 12 dissertation credits. For students without a relevant master's degree, the program requires 60 total credits: 48 course credits and 12 dissertation credits.
The program’s curriculum includes core coursework in applied biostatistics, theoretical statistics,epidemiology, and public health data science.

The total credits will be 60 for students without prior MS/MPH degree in biostatistics (48 course credits + 12 dissertation credits). The table below provides the list of 11 core courses for students without a relevant master degree (33 credits).

Sample Full-Time Course Sequence for Students entering without  relevant master’s degree

First Year

First Semester Credits (9)

First Year

Second Semester Credits (9)

Second Year

First Semester Credits (9)

Second Year

Second Semester Credits (9)

Take the Comprehensive Exam at the end of Year 2
Years 3 to 5: Take 4 elective courses (12 credits) and 12 dissertation credits

Sample Full-Time Course Sequence for Students entering with  relevant master’s degree

The total credits for PhD in Biostatistics will be 48 (36 course credits + 12 dissertation credits) if students have a prior MS/MPH degree in biostatistics.

First Year

First Semester Credits (9)

First Year

Second Semester Credits (9)

Second Year

First Semester Credits (9)

Second Year

Second Semester Credits (9)

Take Comprehensive Exam at the end of Year 2
Years 3 to 4: Take 12 dissertation credits.