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Discover Biostatistics

Shape the Future of Health Through Data

We live in a world on the brink of breakthroughs in biomedicine, technology, and big data. Advances in our understanding of infectious diseases, chronic illnesses, and public health outcomes have the potential to improve countless lives.

At the center of these challenges and opportunities are biostatisticians—combining skills in statistics, mathematics, data science, and the biological and environmental sciences to collaborate with researchers across disciplines. Together, they solve today’s most complex health problems and contribute to a healthier, more equitable future.

New biomedical technologies—from next generation sequencing to advanced imaging—are generating enormous datasets. Biostatisticians meet these challenges not only with cutting-edge methods, but also with time-tested practices such as careful study design, regression modeling, and survival analysis. Together, these approaches ensure that modern data is analyzed with rigor and translated into meaningful insights for health and medicine.

With rapid growth in the field, biostatisticians are in high demand. If you enjoy working with data, are curious about science, and want to make a difference in health and medicine, a career in biostatistics may be the path for you.

What kinds of research are Michigan Biostatistics faculty working on?

What are the career prospects for biostatistics graduates?

How does biostatistics compare to related fields?

How does the advent of AI impact biostatistics?

From numbers to science to data—there’s a place for you in biostatistics.

Select your academic background below to find out.

Residential Graduate Programs offered by Michigan Biostatistics

MS in Biostatistics

Combines rigorous training in statistical theory with extensive applied opportunities. Students benefit from strong ties to public health and medical researchers, applying methods to real-world data while still learning the fundamentals in depth.

Students who enjoy applied quantitative work, have a solid foundation in math/statistics, and want to use statistical methods to support biomedical and public health research. A good fit for those seeking flexible career paths in research, industry, or as preparation for doctoral study.

  • Core training in biostatistical methods (e.g., regression, survival analysis, clinical trials)
  • Applied projects with faculty and researchers across the university
  • Graduates enter roles in healthcare, pharma, tech, and continue to PhD study

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MS in Health Data Science

Focus on the intersection of biostatistics, computing, and health data. Students learn not just how to implement machine learning and advanced algorithms, but how to evaluate their validity and fairness in health applications.

Students with strong technical and computational interests who want to apply data science tools in health and medicine. Ideal for those who enjoy coding, managing large datasets, and building predictive models while also grounding their work in statistical rigor.

  • Training in statistical learning, machine learning, and computational methods
  • Hands-on experience with real-world health datasets (EHR, genomics, imaging)
  • Strong emphasis on programming (R, Python) and reproducible research
  • Graduates pursue careers in data science, health analytics, and biomedical informatics

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PhD in Biostatistics

Emphasis on methodological innovation and high-impact collaborative research. Students work closely with faculty on original research projects, often resulting in publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

Students who are deeply interested in developing new statistical methods, leading independent research, and pursuing careers in academia, government research labs, or industry R&D. Ideal for those with a strong quantitative background who want to contribute to the theoretical and applied advancement of the field.

  • Advanced coursework in probability, inference, and specialized methods
  • Research assistantships with funded projects
  • Opportunities to lead collaborations across UM’s health system and research institutes
  • Graduates go on to faculty positions, leadership roles in industry, and government agencies

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Why Should I Study Biostatistics at Michigan?

  • A Top-Ranked Program with a Lasting Legacy
    For more than 75 years, Michigan Biostatistics has trained leaders who have advanced the field and improved health worldwide. With more than 2,000 alumni and a ranking of No. 3 in the U.S. (U.S. News, 2025), we combine tradition with innovation at the forefront of biostatistical research.

  • Research That Matters
    Our faculty and students tackle real-world challenges across medicine and public health: designing clinical trials, improving cancer detection, advancing statistical genetics, strengthening causal inference, and addressing health disparities. From pandemic modeling to personalized medicine, Michigan Biostatistics is a driver of discovery.

  • Collaboration Across Campus and Beyond
    Students work with collaborators at Michigan Medicine, the Rogel Cancer Center, the Institute for Social Research, and interdisciplinary groups such as the Center for Cancer Biostatistics and Precision Health. With partners across the country and around the globe, Michigan is uniquely positioned to train biostatisticians for impactful, collaborative careers.

  • Unmatched Resources and Support
    As part of the University of Michigan—one of the world’s leading research universities—and the School of Public Health (ranked No. 2 in 2025), our students benefit from abundant funding, state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and a vibrant community dedicated to health equity and scientific excellence.