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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 Application 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 doctoral program is Wednesday, December 3, 2025.

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

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

  

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.

Academic Preparation

We require applicants have at a minimum:

  • One year of calculus (including multivariate calculus).
  • One course in linear algebra (MATH 102 - Applied Linear Algebra or MATH 170A - Numerical Linear Algebra).
  • One course in probability (MATH 180A).
  • One course in real analysis (MATH 140A/B - Foundations of Real Analysis).
  • Facility with a programming language.
  • Additional upper-division work in mathematics and/or statistics.

Course descriptions of those MATH courses listed above as examples can be found within the Mathematic's Course Catalog.

Applications are reviewed holistically, meaning we consider all aspects of an applicant's background when making an admissions decision. It is possible for applicants to be admitted into the program who do not satisfy all academic prerequisites. In these cases, course deficiencies should be made up by the end of the first academic year following initial enrollment by obtaining a letter grade of B or better within the prerequisite courses taken. 

 

PhD Application 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
  • University recognized English proficiency 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 PhD 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 and Fee

The 2026 admission application will be open from Wednesday, September 3, 2025 for both programs.The deadline for the doctoral 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. 

The program matriculates doctoral students in the fall only. 

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.