Careers in biostatistics

Biostatisticians are needed for data management and analysis; pharmaceutical and clinical trials; academic and industrial positions; and for federal, state and local government roles. Their work shows, for example, whether the results of a drug trial were likely because of the drug rather than just the effect of random variation in patient outcomes.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 30 percent of statisticians work for federal, state, and local governments, including research universities. Other employers include contract research organizations, scientific research and development services as well as financial and insurance firms.

The field of biostatistics should continue to experience employment growth, primarily because of the booming pharmaceutical industry. As pharmaceutical companies develop new treatments and medical technologies, biostatisticians will continue to be needed to conduct research and analyze clinical trial data.

A master's degree is the minimum educational requirement for most jobs as a biostatistician. However, research and academic jobs generally require a PhD.

Where are our graduates working?

Our alumni find careers in a number of institutions and organizations. They are faculty and research statisticians at universities, biostatisticians at biotechnology companies and federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and surveillance administrators at state health departments.