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Admissions Overview

The Teaching Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics in Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Longevity Science seeks highly motivated applicants with a strong mathematical background for our Doctoral program in Biostatistics which started in Fall 2016 and our new Master of Science in Biostatistics which started in Fall 2019. Our programs aim to train the next generation of biostatisticians in the mathematical theory, computational skills, and inferential methods needed to analyze complex biomedical data. The programs will provide:

  1. An integrated, comprehensive, and intensive didactic curriculum in biostatistics, statistics, and the mathematical foundations needed for analysis of biomedical data;
  2. Rigorous training in computing, reproducible research practices and data management skills;
  3. Substantive training in a specific domain of application in biomedical or public health sciences;
  4. Instruction on research ethics, protection of human subjects, and confidentiality requirements;
  5. Experiential learning and mentoring in communication and scientific writing skills and the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams.

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Fall 2026 Applications Dates

    • Applications for both programs will open Wednesday, September 3, 2025 and may be submitted through the Division of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs (GEPA) of UC San Diego.

    • The application deadline for the master's program is Wednesday, January 7, 2026. 

    • The application deadline for the doctoral program is Wednesday, December 3, 2025.

    If you would like to be considered for both programs, you must apply to the doctoral program by the doctoral program deadline and select that you would like to be considered for the master's program as well. 

 

 

MS in Biostatistics

MS Admission Requirements

Interested candidates should prepare the following application documents to be submitted online:

  • Statement of Purpose (details provided below)
  • Transcripts (official transcripts will be required if admitted into the program); GPA >= 3.0 required for admission.
  • List of mathematics and statistics courses taken/projected as well as textbooks used and grades received (can be in table format).
  • Three letters of recommendation; at least two should address academic and/or professional qualifications for pursuing a Masters program in biostatistics. If more than three are received, the first three received will be reviewed.
  • University recognized English proficiency scores (for international applicants from non-English speaking countries).
  • MS Applicants who are U.S. Citizens are required to complete a FAFSA. This will assist in determining which applicants are eligible for grants that may have been awarded to support the interdepartmental program by various agencies and donors. FAFSA information plays no role in admission decisions.
  • Curriculum vitae
  • The GRE is optional for application to the Biostatistics master's program for the Fall 2025 cycle. Submitted scores will be reviewed, but are not necessary for application submission. 

Statement of Purpose

Your statement of purpose and objectives (500-1000 word limit suggested) should address all of the following items:

  • Describe those experiences that have shaped your interest in biostatistics. 
  • Outline your professional goals, both immediate and long-term.
  • Discuss the strengths you bring with you, including work and other experiences which you feel makes you more likely to succeed in this program.
  • Discuss why you are interested in the Biostatistics MS program in the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Longevity Science (Teaching Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, UC San Diego).
  • Describe the one academic experience that has meant the most to you in your educational career.

Application Deadline

The 2026 admission application will be open from Wednesday, September 3, 2025 for both programs. The deadline for application to the MS program is Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The deadline for the PhD application is Wednesday, December 3, 2025. If you would like to be considered for both programs, you must apply to the doctoral program by the doctoral program deadline and select that you would like to be considered for the master's program as well. 

Application Fee

The application fee is $135.00 for U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents or $155.00 for International Applicants. For more fee information, please view the Graduate Division webpage. Please note that the Teaching Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics does not waive this fee.