Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• demonstrate a broad knowledge and understanding of current statistical theory, methods, and practices in the health sciences;
• effectively collaborate on a research team;
• develop statistical designs and implement analyses for health science investigations;
• develop computer programs for the management and analysis of data sets;
• prepare reports and publications resulting from health science studies; and
• effectively communicate key statistical principles to a nonstatistical audience.

The Master of Science program in biostatistics requires a minimum of 38 s.h. of graduate credit. Students must maintain a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.00. Those who receive a grade of C on 7 s.h. of coursework may be dismissed from the program.

The program provides training in the design of experiments and in analysis of data related to biomedical or public health problems. It emphasizes mathematical, statistical, and computer methods for dealing with quantitative information and provides opportunities for students to gain statistical consulting experience with a variety of problems.

MS students are required to complete an in-depth preceptorship under the direction of a departmental faculty member and a final comprehensive-style examination.

The MS with a major in biostatistics requires the following coursework.

Core Courses

Public Health Requirement

Responsible Conduct of Research Training

Electives

Students complete a minimum of 5–6 s.h. of electives with at least 3 s.h. in quantitative coursework (statistics or biostatistics). It is recommended that students consider a biology/public health course as the other elective, particularly for those who have not had prior exposure to these areas. Electives must be approved by the advisor and the director of graduate studies.

Applicants to the MS program in biostatistics must apply through the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS). After the SOPHAS application is verified, the applicant pays a supplemental Graduate College admission fee to the University of Iowa Office of Admissions. For detailed application information, visit Requirements and How to Apply to Biostatistics on the Department of Biostatistics website.

The biostatistics faculty considers several factors when evaluating applications for admission, including grade-point averages, letters of recommendation, intent and motivation for graduate study, and research interests.

All applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and have a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.00.

All biostatistics applicants are required to have strong written and oral communication skills.

All applicants must be competent in at least one computer programming language. They also must have mathematical sciences training in methods and techniques of single variable and multivariable differential and integral calculus, and in linear algebra. Previous coursework or experience in statistical methods or data analysis is preferred.

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College; see the Manual of Rules and Regulations on the Graduate College website.

Students may enter in the fall; the priority application deadline is December 1.

A limited number of teaching and research assistantships are available. Assistantships offer financial support and tuition assessed at the resident tuition rate along with a tuition scholarship. They also provide valuable on-the-job training experience. For information regarding graduate student employment, tuition scholarships, and benefits refer to Graduate Student Employment Standards. 

For information on financing education through jobs, grants, and loans, contact the university's Office of Student Financial Aid. 

Graduates find career opportunities in many areas, including pharmaceutics, health care, research companies and institutions, consulting firms, universities, and government agencies.

Sample Plan of Study

Sample plans represent one way to complete a program of study. Actual course selection and sequence will vary and should be discussed with an academic advisor. For additional sample plans, see MyUI.

Biostatistics, MS

a

Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.

b

STAT:5100 is required if pursuing a PhD.

c

Complete two sections of BIOS:5510, Programming in R and Programming in SAS.

d

STAT:5101 is required if pursuing a PhD.

e

Required for Graduate Research Assistants (GRA) or potential GRAs.

f

Work with faculty advisor to select appropriate graduate elective coursework. More information can be found in the General Catalog and department website.