Biostatistics is one of the fundamental specializations in the science and practice of public health, relating statistical information to concrete health issues -- especially those affecting human populations. The information provided by biostatisticians is central to the design of interventions and the development of public health policy and priorities.
Our biostatistics faculty include nationally known experts on health metrics. Our experts collaborate with colleagues throughout the The Ohio State University Health Sciences campus as well as peers across the nation. Current research by the biostatistics faculty includes survival analysis, logistical regression, cancer statistics, genomics, proteomics, and environmental and occupational risk assessment. These partnerships result in well-designed studies and properly analyzed data.
The doctoral program in Biostatistics presupposes a mathematical background that includes linear algebra and advanced calculus.The PhD degree requires a significant program of study and research that qualifies the recipient to work independently and contribute to the advancement of the field of knowledge. The emphasis is on mastery of the field and particularly on the acquisition of research skills as a basis for original work. After declaring a specialization during the second year of study, students in the Biostatistics PhD program who choose the Public Health specialization will be assigned faculty advisors from the Biostatistics faculty.
Application Materials and Program Information
https://biostatprograms.osu.edu/
For additional information about general PhD requirements, students are directed to the College of Public Health (CPH) Graduate Student Handbook and to The Ohio State University Graduate School Handbook.
Recommended Preparation
The most important background for biostatistics is good preparation in mathematics. A first course in probability and statistics is desirable, and any applied statistics courses are also helpful. Familiarity with a statistical package (SAS, R, STATA, SPSS, etc.) is also desirable, though not required. Close attention will be paid to grades in quantitative courses of any kind. GRE scores are optional (verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing score) but should be at the 50th percentile or higher, and many students score well above that, especially on the quantitative portion if submitted.
For information regarding application materials, test scores and codes, and decision timelines see our frequently asked questions page.
