Biostatistics (MS)

The MS in Biostatistics degree program consists of at least 39 units from courses in Biostatistics and Epidemiology and will prepare students for a professional or academic career in biostatistical and biomedical research. Students will learn the foundations and theory behind biostatistics; how to apply statistical methods to draw conclusions from the data; to program in various statistical software packages; adapt existing methodologies to use in emerging fields such as clinical trials or genetics and publish a body of independent research. This program may be used as a foundation for a PhD in Biostatistics, Statistics, Epidemiology or Data Science.

Student in the MS Biostatistics program must attend at least 15 biostatistics seminars during the first year of their degree program. These seminars foster an environment of collegiality, providing students with exposure to diverse topics and innovative ideas within biostatistics, and will prepare them for a career in which the exchange of ideas is critical for success. General information about the seminars will be provided at the beginning of each semester, and specific seminar topics will be announced weekly.

The department encourages applicants with undergraduate degrees in mathematics, statistics or biostatistics, or other related fields. Applicants are encouraged to have preparation in differential and integral calculus, introduction to mathematical statistics and basic computer programming.

Admissions requirements can be found on the Department of Population and Public Health Sciences website: pphs.usc.edu/admissions/admission-requirements-master-of-science-in-biostatistics.