MSPH Biostatistics
The Master of Science in Public Health degree program in biostatistics is a two-year program that emphasizes statistical methods, data processing and computing, and epidemiology. It is intended to train persons for collaborative work with scientists in nearly every area related to public health and medicine. A thesis is required. Students work with faculty as research associates during their training.
Learner outcomes
Upon completion of this degree, the graduate should be able to:
1. Apply basic statistical theory to the solution of applied statistical problems.2. Formulate research questions and select appropriate study designs, sample size, sampling scheme, and data-collection methods for a scientific study.
3. Apply data-collection strategies and data-processing and statistical techniques.
4. Design and implement studies for collection of data from original sources, such as field surveys.
5. Critically review literature relevant to statistical methods and interpretation of statistical findings, and identify strengths and weaknesses of design.
6. Communicate the results of analyses and write the statistical methods and results sections of a research project.
7. Select appropriate statistical methods and analyze data using current computer statistical packages (e.g., SAS, SPLUS, and SPSS).
8. Use computer software to establish and manage databases.
9. Serve as statistical consultant to health professionals who conduct research.
10. Apply advanced statistical theory and methods for translating biomedical research findings.
11. Advance the biomedical sciences by developing new methods and applications.
12. Implement theoretical modeling, statistical techniques, and quantitative as well as computational methods.
14. Apply for PhD degree programs in statistics or biostatistics.
Program Educational Effectiveness Indicators
| Name | Description |
Location |
| Midterm and Comprehensive Final Exam | This exam includes all materials covered in the course in that term | LLU campus |
| Research | A comprehensive written paper | LLU campus |
| Comprehensive Exam | A written comprehensive exam on 5 different STAT subjects | LLU campus |
| Presentation | After completion of research, the student is required to present it | LLU campus |
| Course evaluation forms | Suggestions by the students to improve delivery of course material and the design of the course itself | LLU campus |
PREREQUISITE
Calculus (one year)
- Linear algebra (one quarter)
- Computer literacy (knowledge and experience in computer operating systems, especially the Windows environment; and some programming experience recommended)
- Research and forums
Students are required to attend a minimum of twenty (20) forums in the School of Public Health’s Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and/or Center for Health Research during their program. Attendance at these forums will be in addition to attendance at the public health seminars.
Culminating activity
In order to obtain a degree, the student is required to successfully complete a written comprehensive examination as required by the School of Public Health’s Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics.
The culminating activity includes a written comprehensive examination; research thesis, including a written report and oral presentation; professional portfolio (upon completion of the research); and an exit interview with the department chair (at the conclusion of the program).
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Public health core courses (28 units)
- ENVH 509 Principles of Environmental Health (3)
- EPDM 509 Principles of Epidemiology I (3)
- HADM 509 Principles of Health Policy and Management (3)
- HPRO 509 Principles of Health Behavior (3)
- RELE 534 Ethical Issues in Public Health (3)
- PHCJ 605 Overview of Public Health (1)
- STAT 521 Biostatistics I (4)
- HPRO 536 Program Planning & Evaluation (2)
- GLBH 524 Issues in Health Disparities & Cultural Competency (2)
- NUTR 505 Public Health Biology (2)
- PHCJ 675 Integrated Public Health Capstone (2)
Biostatistics core courses (42 units)
- EPDM 510 Principles of Epidemiology II (3)
- EPDM 515 Clinical Trials (3)
- STAT 522 Biostatistics II (4)
- STAT 523 Biostatistics III (4)
- STAT 525 Applied Multivariate Analysis (3)
- STAT 535 Introduction to Nonparametric Statistics (3)
- STAT 538 Probability and Statistical Theory I (3)
- STAT 539 Probability and Statistical Theory II (3)
- STAT 545 Survival Analysis (3)
- STAT 548 Analytical Applications of SAS (2)
- STAT 557 Research-Data Management (3)
- STAT 564 Survey and Advanced Research Methods (3)
- STAT 569 Advanced Data Analysis (3)
- STAT 594 Statistical Consulting (2)
Thesis (8 units)
STAT 695 Thesis (8)
MINIMUM UNITS REQUIRED 70 + theses units (8)
Contact Information - Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Web site: www.llu.edu/llu/sph/epibio
E-mail: epibio@llu.edu
Phone: (909) 558-4590
