Applying to Michigan Biostatistics

We offer three degree options in Biostatistics 

Residential Graduate Degree Programs

To work effectively in the field of public health, biostatisticians must be knowledgeable about statistical methods and health issues. That’s why our programs include training in both the the 'bio', or life sciences and the 'statistics' portions of biostatistics’ these two components of training complement each other.

Training in a 'bio' area allows students to develop the knowledge needed to effectively collaborate with scientists in that research area. The 'bio' part of both the MS and PhD programs consists of a concentration in a single cognate area to which statistics may be applied. This area may be selected from departments within the School of Public Health such as Epidemiology or Environmental Health Sciences, from areas such as physiology or human genetics in the Medical School, or from other areas such as psychology, biology, sociology, or economics. Thus, students have considerable flexibility in planning an individual program of study. The 'bio' part of the MPH program consists of a core program in public health and includes a broad exposure to public health fields.

The ‘statistics’ portion of our programs develops understanding and strength in biostatistical theory and applications of statistics.

Non-residential Graduate Degree Program (MS via OJ/OC CRDSA)

In addition to its residential programs, the Department of Biostatistics also offers an MS in Clinical Research Design and Statistical Analysis in a non-residential On-Job/On-Campus (OJ/OC) format. Students in this program come to campus for a four-day weekend each month for 18 months. The program provides a means for healthcare professionals involved in clinical research to develop appropriate expertise in research design and statistical analysis while working full-time. The program is not intended to be a substitute for the residential MS or MPH programs in Biostatistics and, specifically, is not a preparatory program for doctoral study in Biostatistics.

Biostatistics Certificate Program: Certificate in Public Health Genetics

Advances in genetics are occurring at a rapid pace, challenging our collective ability to respond to the many social, legal, ethical, and public health policy implications. Students in the Certificate in Public Health Genetics (CPHG) program will gain an understanding of the effects of genes on health and disease and will learn to apply genetic information to public health practice and research. Students are trained to incorporate knowledge of how genes, together with the environment and behavior, influence health. Faculty from all six departments in the School of Public Health, along with faculty from other schools on campus, participate in the CPHG.

The CPHG curriculum is designed to be accessible to students in biostatistics and other SPH programs to enrich each program of study.