The Field of Biostatistics
Biostatistics is the science that applies statistical theory and methods to the solution of problems in the biological and health sciences. A few examples of research questions which biostatistics can help answer are: What mathematical models can describe transmission and infection probabilities of infectious diseases such as AIDS and influenza? What are the risk factors associated with breast cancer? What preventive steps can people take to reduce the risk of heart disease? How many IV drug users have contracted AIDS in Georgia?
The main areas of effort for biostatisticians include collaborative research and consulting, methodological research, and education. In collaborative research, biostatisticians work on research studies with experts in the biological and health sciences. The biostatisticians' responsibilities include analysis of data and interpretation of results. Equally important, however, is the responsibility to assist in the planning and conduct of the study to ensure consistency with good statistical practice. Methodological research, such as developing mathematical models to describe biological phenomena, is conducted to enhance the existing bodies of knowledge in theoretical and applied biostatistics. Biostatisticians educate others about biostatistics through the teaching of graduate and continuing education courses, seminars, collaborative research and consulting activities.
Students entering graduate programs in biostatistics come from a variety of undergraduate fields. Many have undergraduate degrees in mathematics, applied mathematics or statistics. Others may have majored in the biological or social sciences. While specific requirements vary depending on the particular degree sought by a student, all students are expected to have a strong undergraduate background in mathematics or statistics, and a strong desire to study the theory and application of statistical methods in the biological and health sciences.
Upon enrolling in a biostatistics program, students take courses in statistical methods and theory. The methods courses focus on ways to select and apply statistical techniques that are appropriate for different types of problems. The theory courses provide rigorous instruction in the formal mathematical structure underlying the statistical techniques. Heavy use is made of computers in most biostatistics courses. Required and elective courses from other public health or biomedical fields are also included in the program of study.
Employment prospects for Master's and PhD level biostatisticians have been excellent in recent years. Positions as researchers and data analysts are commonly available in industry (e.g., pharmaceutical, consulting), academia (e.g., schools of public health and schools of medicine) and government agencies (e.g., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, local or state health departments). The monthly news magazine of the American Statistical Association, Amstat News, contains nationwide listings of career opportunities for biostatisticians. More information about careers in biostatistics can be found in our Careers in Biostatistics section.
Page Updated 12/01/10