Biostatistics
Biostatistics applies statistical, mathematical and computational techniques to scientific research in health-related fields, including medicine, epidemiology, and public health. Biostatistics has been an integral and indispensable tool in improving health and reducing illness. Biostatisticians play essential roles in designing studies and analyzing research data. Graduates with degrees in biostatistics are employed in public health research and service organizations, university research groups, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, health-related industries and government. The demand for biostatisticians in the job market has been consistently strong. New technologies are generating an unprecedented amount of data which present exciting opportunities for biostatisticians with strong computational skills. The goal of Drexel University's MS Program in Biostatistics is to provide students with a thorough understanding of biostatistical methods, strong computational skills, and the ability to apply this knowledge to research focusing on health related problems. The program prepares students for handling the quantitative and computational aspects of a research project, ranging from study design, data collection and management, developing analysis plans, conducting analyses and reporting findings both orally and in writing. The MS in Biostatistics program includes course work in statistical theory and methods, computing and data management, epidemiology, and general public health topics. Incorporated into the second year is a two quarter-long practicum experience working on a real academic, government, or industry project in a sponsoring organization setting. The practicum-based research project will involve the application of biostatistical analysis to a problem of significance to the sponsoring academic, government or industry organization with joint oversight provided by a Department faculty member and an on-site PhD level biostatistician. Upon graduation MS students will attain competencies in the following three areas: general public health knowledge, biostatistics knowledge, data management and computing skills.
Degrees Offered
| Degree | Availability | Location |
|---|---|---|
|
MS |
Full-Time |
Philadelphia |
Application Requirements
On-Campus Program
Please view our academic calendar for term start dates.
| Fall (Sept) | Winter (Jan) | Spring (March) | Summer (June) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Priority Deadline | March 15 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Regular Decision | July 1 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Applicants who apply by March 15 will be given priority consideration for merit-based scholarships. Applications received after this date will be considered for merit-based aid if funds remain available. Applications are continually reviewed throughout the cycle.
All application materials must be sent to the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS) for your application to be considered complete and eligible for admissions review.
Graduate Admission Application
Applicants should apply using SOPHAS. Applicants will designate a choice of major, but will have the opportunity to change prior to entering the major during the spring term of the first year.
For more information and to apply online, visit sophas.org. No supplemental application is required (SOPHAS GRE school code 7890).
Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Official transcripts can be sent to:
SOPHAS
PO Box 9111
Watertown, MA 02471
International Transcript Evaluation (international applicants only)
World Education Service evaluation of all foreign transcripts (international applications only).
Standardized Test Scores
GRE test scores are not required. However, you may choose to submit scores to strengthen your application (SOPHAS GRE school code: 7890).
International applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) unless they meet the criteria for a waiver.
Essay
Essay discussing how you became interested in public health, your career goals if known at this time and why you are interested in Drexel University. Typical length is 600–800 words.
Résumé
A résumé or CV is required, and should be uploaded as part of your admission application through the SOPHAS website.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation are required, preferably from faculty.
Additional Information
Applicants to the MS in Biostatistics must possess a baccalaureate degree, ideally in a quantitative field such as mathematics, economics and computer science or a scientific area such as natural, biological, medical and environmental sciences. Applicant's undergraduate training should have included at least two semesters of calculus and at least one semester of linear algebra. Some familiarity with a programming language or a statistical package is desirable, as well as probability and multivariate calculus.