The epidemiology and biostatistics programs are jointly administered. The complementary nature of these research disciplines provides an efficient, investigative alliance which combines the health perspective of biological science with the objectivity of statistics. Faculty members in epidemiology and biostatistics also have substantial involvement in the Center for Health Research, Loma Linda University Medical Center, and the Desert Sierra Cancer Surveillance Program.
The Master of Public Health degree program in biostatistics is planned in such a way as to provide concurrent preparation in statistical methodology, data processing, programming, and computer operations. Such combined training is widely regarded as the best method to adequately prepare statisticians to meet the needs of an increasingly computerized environment. Students with diverse undergraduate majors--mathematics, physical science, social sciences, biology, business administration, and the health professions--are usually eligible.
Individuals enrolled in the statistics program are prepared to participate in projects such as the following: population surveys in which, with randomly selected samples, one estimates the health status, the health-care needs, or the health facilities of a particular community; prospective studies in which the relationship between disease and other factors is studied, or in which the effectiveness of a certain health program is evaluated; clinical trials in which a certain new drug, such as a cancer chemotherapeutic agent or some other treatment, is evaluated for its safety and effectiveness.
The primary purpose of the biostatistics and epidemiology programs is to provide a climate in which students may grow in their knowledge and understanding of theory and practice. Thus they may gain competencies that will enable them to apply the principles learned to the solution of a broad variety of problems related to health and disease. All activities and resources--including teaching, research, consultation, community service, and social and spiritual interactions--are directed toward encouraging such growth both in students and in members of the faculty.
The Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics:
1. Trains students to become professionals in biostatistics
and/or epidemiology, according to their respective program
goals.2. Fosters a spirit of collaboration among students and faculty
by including students in research projects and as teaching
assistants.3. Provides practical research experience, including
presentation of data, through field practice in a public health
department, or other agency, or on one of the research
projects within the University.4. Conducts high-quality research within the department,
collaborates on research projects with other departments in
the School of Public Health and Loma Linda University, and
develops research collaboration with other academic and
research communities.5. Provides consultation services regarding research design,
and analyzes and interprets results to other groups within the
University, the community, and outside agencies.
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Last Revised: Thu, Mar 01, 2007