Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-12-01 | - |
Program Overview
The PhD in Biostatistics at ASU, commencing in Fall 2025, equips students with advanced research and application skills in biostatistical methods for health settings. Through a combination of core coursework, electives, research, and a culminating dissertation, students develop expertise in study design, data analysis, and problem-solving. The program emphasizes cross-disciplinary collaboration, hands-on experience, and the development of communication and teamwork abilities, preparing graduates for high-growth careers in healthcare and research.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- This program, starting in Fall 2025, aims to prepare students for advanced research and application of biostatistical methods in various health settings.
- Students will acquire expertise in designing studies, analyzing data, and developing solutions for health challenges.
- Collaborations with diverse health professionals foster cross-disciplinary learning and research opportunities.
- Hands-on experience, problem-solving skills, communication, and teamwork abilities are emphasized.
Outline:
- Required Core (18 credit hours):
- Biostatistical Theory and Inference (3)
- Applied Multi-level and Longitudinal Data Analysis (3)
- Survival Data Analysis (3)
- Applied Clinical Trial Design and Analysis (3)
- Applied Meta-analysis (3)
- Categorical Data Analysis in Health Sciences (3)
- Electives (42 credit hours):
- Coursework selected in consultation with the program advisor.
- Elective alternatives may be identified in collaboration with the program director.
- Research (12 credit hours):
- BST 792 Research (12)
- Culminating Experience (12 credit hours):
- BST 799 Dissertation (12)
Assessment:
- Qualifying exam.
- Written comprehensive exam.
- Submission and oral defense of a written dissertation prospectus (expected by the end of the fourth year).
- Final dissertation submission and defense.
Teaching:
- Collaborations with various health researchers and professionals.
- Emphasizes real-world applications and problem-solving.
- Encourages engagement with diverse health-related fields.
- Fosters communication and teamwork skills.
Careers:
- Biostatistician
- Data Scientist
- Professor
- Senior Data Analyst
- Statistician
- Classified as "Bright Outlook occupations" with high growth potential and salaries.
Other:
- STEM-OPT extension for international students on F-1 visas for up to 36 months.
- Students can participate in research and work with diverse health professionals.
- Program emphasizes cross-disciplinary learning and application of biostatistics.
- Students gain hands-on experience and develop problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
- The program is designed to prepare graduates for various career opportunities in healthcare and research.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
The program requires applicants to meet the following criteria:
General Requirements:
- Bachelor's or master's degree in applied statistics, applied mathematics, quantitative psychology, or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or in an applicable master's degree program.
- Completed 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.
Application Materials:
- Graduate admissions application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Professional resume.
- Two references (academic or professional).
- Statement of purpose (1-2 pages).
- Writing sample (6-10 pages).
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Preference will be given to students with extensive quantitative background and computation skills with health-related experience.
- An oral interview with the program faculty is required.
Language Proficiency Requirement:
Summary:
The program requires a strong academic background in statistics, mathematics, and related fields. Applicants must also demonstrate strong communication and writing skills, and a passion for biostatistics and health research.