BIOSTATISTICS, MS
Biostatistics
Master of Science in Biostatistics
The Department of Biostatistics offers an MS degree in Biostatistics. This program provides a balance between theory and application, the perspective being the role of statistics and modeling in scientific research. The objective is to produce research-oriented scientists who anticipate a career performing data management and statistical analysis. Further, the MS program is the appropriate program to prepare students to enter the PhD program.
For admission to the program applicants should have a strong academic record and meet the minimum requirements for admission to the School of Public Health. In addition, the applicant’s prior collegiate curriculum must include a 3-semester sequence of calculus or equivalent and linear algebra. Proficiency in computing is preferred, as are additional advanced mathematics courses, e.g., differential equations, advanced calculus including special functions, and complex analysis. Some background in the natural sciences would be helpful. The Department of Biostatistics admits MS students in the fall term each year. Interested students should apply online through the UAB Graduate School.
Curriculum
All students in an MSPH, MS, DrPH, or PhD program are required to complete PUH 600: Overview of Public Health. The course must be completed in a single semester (Fall or Spring); students must complete the course by the end of their second semester in the program. Students with prior public health education (BS in Public Health or MPH) or extensive public health experience (5+ years in public health practice) may be waived from this requirement by permission of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, but this is rare.
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Departmental Requirements: (27 hours) | ||
| BST 621 | Statistical Methods I | 3 |
| BST 622 | Statistical Methods II | 3 |
| BST 623 | General Linear Models | 3 |
| BST 626 | Data Management and Reporting with SAS | 3 |
| BST 631 | Statistical Theory I | 4 |
| BST 632 | Statistical Theory II | 4 |
| BST 655 | Categorical Data Analysis | 3 |
| BST 691 | Pre-Doctoral Seminar Series 1 | 1 |
| BST 691 | Pre-Doctoral Seminar Series | 1 |
| BST 691 | Pre-Doctoral Seminar Series | 1 |
| BST 691 | Pre-Doctoral Seminar Series | 1 |
| Biostatistics Electives: (Minimum 6 credit hours) | ||
| BST 665 | Survival Analysis (Highly Recommended) | 3 |
| BST courses of 624 or higher level | 3 | |
| Required Public Health/Medical/Biological Electives: (Minimum 6 credit hours) | ||
| EPI 610 | Principles of Epidemiologic Research | 3 |
| Other Elective | 3 | |
| Master's Directed Research: (Minimum of 6 credit hours) | ||
| BST 698 | Non Thesis Research | 6 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 45 | |
