Admissions FAQs
Application
Three semesters of calculus (including multivariable calculus), one semester of linear algebra, and one semester of statistics. Mastery of the content of these classes is essential for success in our program. If you took multivariable calculus or linear algebra >2 years ago, we suggest you re-familiarize yourself with the material before starting our program.
Topics covered:
- Calculus I: functions and graphs, derivatives and their applications to
real-life problems in various fields, and an introduction to integration. - Calculus II: techniques of integration, application of these, and an
introduction to sequences and series and to differential equations. - Calculus III: Vectors, Vector Functions, Functions of Two and Three
Variables, Partial Derivatives, Optimization (including Lagrange
multipliers), Multiple Integrals, Calculus of Vector Field, Line Integrals
and Surface Integrals, Green's, Stokes', and Divergence Theorems. - Linear Algebra: matrix operations, echelon form, solution of systems of
linear equations, Euclidean vector spaces, linear combinations,
independence and spans of sets of vectors in Euclidean space, eigenvectors
and eigenvalues, similarity theory.
Students admitted to the doctoral program usually have a relevant master's degree, typically a Masters degree in biostatistics or statistics. Particularly strong candidates may be admitted directly to the PhD with a bachelor’s degree.
The Biostatistics program is a long-standing program that offers rigorous, comprehensive and in-depth training in biostatistics. The Health Data Science program is a new program that introduces enhanced training of computational and data analytic skills into the existing biostatistical curriculum for the analysis of medical and public health big data. The two programs differ in their curricula designs, as well as in their training targets (i.e., biostatisticians vs health data scientists). You may choose the program according to your own interest and career goal.
Computing/programming experience are recommended by both programs but not required for application. HDS has more computing/programming components in its required courses than Biostatistics.
Yes, if you complete a degree from a US institution or an institution at which the
official language of instruction is English, the TOEFL requirement may be waived.
If you are applying to the MS or PhD, please see this Rackham test information page for English test rules.
If you are applying to the MPH, please see SPH International Student Application Information page.
Yes, IELTS is allowed for MS and PhD applications. For MS and PhD applications, although the Admissions Committee prefers TOEFL scores, IELTS will be allowed in instances where TOEFL is unavailable.
If you are applying to the MS or PhD, please see this Rackham test information page for English test rules specific to those programs.
The TOEFL is required for MPH applications. For rules specific to the MPH, please see the MPH International application page for more information.
Funding
Applicants do not need to apply for funding within the department. The Biostatistics admissions committee considers all applicants for funding. Applicants are notified of funding decisions with their admission letters.
All students admitted to the PhD program are fully funded. This includes tuition, stipend, and Gradcare health insurance.
After Admission
Academics/In Program
There are multiple ways for MS students to get involved with research. Students may join STATCOM to work on statistical projects from non-profit governmental and community organizations with faculty serving an advisory role. Students may register for Biostat 610: Readings in Biostatistics, where faculty and students can decide on an individualized research plan for credit. Experiential learning opportunities are available via MIDAS. While GSRA positions are limited, many students find hourly positions within and outside of Biostatistics to work on short-term projects or may find a research position during the summer. Biostatistics faculty may send emails with available positions or positions may be searched for on SPH career links.