Admissions Overview
Thank you for your interest in the UCSD Biostatistics Graduate programs. The 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:
- An integrated, comprehensive, and intensive didactic curriculum in biostatistics, statistics, and the mathematical foundations needed for analysis of biomedical data;
- Rigorous training in computing, reproducible research practices and data management skills;
- Substantive training in a specific domain of application in biomedical or public health sciences;
- Instruction on research ethics, protection of human subjects, and confidentiality requirements;
- Experiential learning and mentoring in communication and scientific writing skills and the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams.
Please note that the admission application for Fall 2023, will open on September 21, 2022, for both programs.
The application deadline for the doctoral program is January 4, 2023, and the application deadline for the master's program is January 18, 2023.
An application to either program may be submitted here.
MS in Biostatistics
PhD in Biostatistics
The PhD program is distinguished by its high mathematical content and rigorous technical training in theory and methods, as well as, training in practical collaborative skills, and use of important data from many areas of the biomedical sciences. We expect to provide a stipend and tuition remission to qualified students for the duration of their studies.
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.
- General Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores
- TOEFL test 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
PhD 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 PhD program in biostatistics. If more than three are received, the first three received will be reviewed.
- General Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores
- TOEFL test scores (for international applicants from non-English speaking countries)
- PhD 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
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 or PhD program in the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Longevity Science (Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, UCSD)
- Describe the one academic experience that has meant the most to you in your educational career.