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Biostatistics, MS

Biostatistics, MS

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Biostatistics, MS

Data, Data Science, Epidemiology, Health Care Data, Health Statistics, Mathematics, approved for STEM-OPT extension, bioinformatics, public health, statistics

Across health care systems, massive amounts of health data are collected. Learn to design and execute health research studies with leaders in the field that will answer the important questions and lead to better health outcomes.

Program description
Degree awarded: MS  Biostatistics

The MS program in biostatistics provides training in applied biostatistical methodology and its applications to solve practical problems in health-related sciences. Expertise is necessary to design, implement, evaluate and disseminate research and translate information into improved health outcomes for individuals, systems and populations. Students in this program learn fundamental biostatistics skills that provide the knowledge necessary for effective collaboration with health researchers. Students learn how to design randomized, controlled clinical trials and intervention studies to guarantee data quality and make valid causal inferences. An applied research focus and mentorship approach aids students as they work to solve a real health-related research problem to complete their program.

GI Bill® benefits

This new program is not yet approved for use with GI Bill® benefits.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
Degree requirements

30 credits and an applied project course (BST 593)

Required Core (15 credit hours)
BST 601 Biostatistical Theory and Inference (3)
BST 602 Applied Multi-level and Longitudinal Data Analysis (3)
BST 604 Computational Biostatistics (3)
BST 605 Biostatistical Data Analysis (3)
BST 606 Applied Clinical Trial Design and Analysis (3)

Electives (9 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
BST 593 Applied Project (6)

Additional Curriculum Information
Elective coursework should be selected in consultation with the program advisor.

The applied project will depend upon the student's background and goals for after graduation.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Health Solutions.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in biomedical informatics, demography, mathematics, public or population health, social sciences or statistics from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

Applicants are required to submit:

  • graduate admissions application and application fee
  • official transcripts
  • professional resume
  • two references (academic or professional)
  • statement of purpose
  • proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency.

All applicants must have completed and passed an undergraduate statistics course (e.g. HCD 300, STP 226, ECN 221, or PSY 230), a linear algebra course (e.g. MAT 242, MAT 342 or MAT 343), and a calculus course (e.g. MAT 210, MAT 251 or MAT 270) prior to admission. If the requisite coursework is not completed prior to admission, then it must be completed prior to matriculating.

Contact information of two references is required. References will be contacted via email to submit a letter of recommendation. Letters of recommendation are preferably written by instructors, research mentors or supervisors who can speak to the applicant's aptitude for research and graduate-level coursework.

The statement of purpose should be one to two pages that indicate the applicant's interest in the program, knowledge of the field, and career plans. Applicants are encouraged to connect with program faculty who could be potential research mentors and include this information in their statement, if available at the time of application.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 04/15Priority
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 10/15Priority
Career opportunities

Students with a Master of Science in biostatistics can be employed in academic institutions, government agencies and health-related industries. Graduates are well-positioned to support public health needs. Career opportunities include:

  • biostatisticians
  • data scientists
  • professors
  • senior data analysts
  • statisticians

These positions are all classified as "Bright Outlook occupations" from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is officially defined as the occupations expected to grow rapidly in the next several years with large numbers of job openings. They are new and emerging occupations with potential high salaries.

Contact information

College of Health Solutions | HLTHN 401
chsgrad@asu.edu
602-496-3300

What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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