Program Overview

Biostatistics Program Overview

Brown University’s two-year, on-campus master's in biostatistics offers advanced training in rigorous statistical methods and real-world application to tackle today’s most complex health and medical challenges. The program prepares students with the skills to become statisticians ready to excel in modern data science environments.

Program Details

• The program equips students with expertise in statistical inference and modeling, proficiency with data science tools, and a robust skill set in computer programming.
• Students also develop strong communication abilities and gain collaborative experience to enhance their professional capabilities.
• The program offers two degree options:
  • Master of science (Sc.M.): Coursework and a thesis or project
  • Master of arts (A.M.): For current Brown undergraduates only, with more information available on the fifth-year master’s program

Application Information

• Students entering the master's program are assumed to have the necessary background, including:
  • One semester of multivariate calculus
  • One semester of linear algebra
  • One semester of probability using calculus
  • Experience with numerical computing and two to three semesters of calculus are recommended
• Applicants should apply through SOPHAS, a centralized application service for accredited schools and programs in public health.
• The application opens in mid-August each year.

Application Requirements

• GRE Subject: Not required
• GRE General: Not required, but students who wish to submit scores can use the Brown University School of Public Health GRE reporting code: 7765
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for non-native English speakers, with a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL internet-based exam or a minimum score of 7.0 on the IELTS
• Official Transcripts: Required
• Letters of Recommendations: Three required
• Personal Statement: Required
• Resume/CV: Required
• Additional Materials: Application Fee

Dates/Deadlines

• Priority Deadline: December 1, 2025
• Application Deadline: January 15, 2026
• 5th Year Deadline: April 15, 2026

Tuition and Funding

• Financial aid for master’s students varies, though most students are self-supported through a combination of scholarships, loans, outside funding, and/or Research and Teaching assistantships.
• Master’s funding opportunities are available on the School of Public Health website.

Completion Requirements

• A.M. (5th Year): Eight courses for the Masters of Arts (A.M.) degree in Biostatistics, with two courses counting toward the Master’s degree prior to matriculating into the program
• A.M. (Open Graduate Education): Eight courses for the Masters of Arts (A.M.) degree in Biostatistics
• Sc.M.: Ten courses for the Masters of Science (Sc.M.) plus completing a thesis or a project, with up to one course from another institution transferable

Leadership

• Carole and Lawrence Sirovich Professor of Public Health Department Chair and Professor of Biostatistics: Joseph Hogan, Sc.D.
• Assistant Professor of Biostatistics, Director of the Master's Graduate Program in Biostatistics: Stavroula Chrysanthopoulou
• Director, NextGen Scholar Program: Jon Steingrimsson, Ph.D.
• Associate Professor of Biostatistics: Alice Paul
• Vice Chair of the Department of Biostatistics, Associate Professor of Biostatistics: Ani Eloyan

Resources

• Program Faculty
• Program Handbook
• Graduate School Handbook
• Public Health Career Outcomes
• Master's FAQ's
• Biostatistics Career Outcomes
• Related Academic Areas