Best Biostatistics graduate PHD programs - Updated 2022

The PhD program in Biostatistics trains students in the areas of probabilistic and statistical theory, biostatistical and bioinformatics methods, statistical computation and algorithm development, the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with scientists in related disciplines, and the ability to teach biostatistics and bioinformatics effectively to general or specialized audiences. The PhD program includes training in the development of methodology, consulting, teaching, and collaboration on a broad spectrum of health-related problems.

The purpose of the PhD program in Biostatistics is to prepare individuals to develop or adapt statistical methods for solving problems in the health field. Resources available at Columbia include extensive library and computer facilities, as well as myriad opportunities for involvement in numerous research activities in the biomedical sciences and clinical research, which can lead to dissertation topics.

The PhD program in biostatistics is designed to prepare students to be independent researchers in the development of statistical methodologies and in the appropriate and innovative application of these methodologies to biomedical research problems. In the first five semesters of the program, students complete a series of courses in both theory and applied methodology, engage in individually mentored research experiences, explore statistical collaboration, and complete the qualifications examination.

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Many issues in the health, medical, and biological sciences are addressed by collecting and exploring relevant data. The development and application of techniques to better understand such data is the fundamental concern of the Group in Biostatistics. The program offers training in theory of statistics and biostatistics, the computer implementation of analytic methods, and opportunities to use this knowledge in areas of biological medical research. The curriculum is taught principally by members of the Division of Biostatistics (School of Public Health) and the Statistics (College of Letters Science) and provides a wide range of ideas and approaches to the analysis of data.

The PhD program is built around the following core courses that provide students with a solid grounding in advanced statistical theory and methodology. This is a course for PhD students with advanced knowledge of probability, statistics, and mathematics.

Biostatistics is one of the most exciting areas of applied statistics, and biostatisticians collaborate with scientists in nearly every area related to health and biology to apply statistics to real world problems using skills that few people have, and that are in demand by employers. Statistical models and methodologies have provided invaluable insight into the etiology of AIDS, cancer, genetics, psychology and numerous other areas of scientific research – statistical models can help cure disease and improve the quality of life.

As a condition of admission, students must hold a Masters degree in a related discipline (e.g., mathematics, statistics, epidemiology, public health) and have completed a Masters thesis. Students entering the program with a relevant Masters’ degree that does not require a thesis (e.g. Masters of Public Health) will be assigned an administrative or research mentor upon entering the program who will evaluate their quantitative and writing skills before the student takes the screening exam. All students are required to pass the program screening examination before being fully admitted as a doctoral student in the program. It is preferred that all students admitted to the program have successfully completed a minimum of one class in epidemiology and one class in biostatistics before entering the doctoral program.

Other Available Graduate ProgramsPhD in Statistics (traditional)PhD in Statistics (bioinformatics concentration)Master of Arts in Statistics. The degree remains a Master of Science (MS) degree. Students graduating in Fall 2020 or later will receive the MS in Biostatistics. The Master of Science program in Biostatistics (formerly called the MS in Medical Statistics program) is primarily intended for students who wish to follow careers in health-related professions such as those in the pharmaceutical industry and biomedical or clinical research organizations.

The Biostatistics PhD program emphasizes both didactic and experiential learning. Program years 1 and 2 will include theoretical and applied classroom work in the core mathematical statistics and biostatistics courses, with additional electives in mathematics and or computer science, and in the life sciences. The core courses incorporate classroom projects in theory and data analysis, and introduce literate programming and reproducible research practices.