Master of Science in Public Health in Biostatistics

The MSPH in biostatistics is designed for students with strong quantitative skills and an interest in research. It provides rigorous training in biostatistical methods and their applications, as well as coursework in epidemiology and core courses from other public health disciplines. BIOS VISIT EMORY PRESENTATION

Skills

Through classroom training and applied practical experiences, students build skills in:

  • study design
  • complex data analysis
  • applying statistical theory to biomedical research

BIOS MPH & MSPH Student Handbook           

BIOS Info Session

Jobs

MSPH graduates are well-prepared for positions in government and private health agencies, pharmaceutical industry, and research institutes. The MSPH program may also serve as solid preparation for entering a doctoral program in biostatistics.

Click the pie chart to see careers of alumni, by sector. TEST TEXT. 

Admission Requirements

In addition to the SOPHAS application, all applicants will need to submit the following materials when applying to Rollins.

  • College transcripts
  • The submission of GRE scores are optional for all candidates applying to MPH and MSPH programs for fall 2024 admission.
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Resume (optional)

Detailed information about each of these admission requirements can be found in Admissions.

Department Requirements

DegreeCoursework ReqGPAGRE Scores
MSPH Successful completion of multivariate calculus (Calculus III) and a course in linear algebra with a grade of B+ or better. Students with prior, relevant course work may receive academic credit toward their degree program in biostatistics. 3.5 or higher 50th percentile or higher for all fields. GRE scores are waived if you have a PhD in a comparable field. 

MSPH Degree Requirements

48 credit hours, successful completion of an applied practice experience and an integrative learning experience

Applied Practice Experience (APE)

An Applied Practice Experience (APE) is a unique opportunity for graduate students to integrate and apply practical skills and training learned through course work and prior experiences in a professional public health environment. All RSPH graduate students are required to complete an APE of at least 200 work hours in a public health agency, institution, or community under the supervision of site supervisor and the guidance of the Department. Although there are no credits associated with the APE requirement, the completion of the requirement is noted on the student’s transcript.

Learn more »

Integrative Learning Experience - Thesis

Examples of past thesis titles include:

Analyzing Durability and Efficacy of Long-lasting Insecticide-treated Bed Nets: A Longitudinal Monitoring Study at Western Kenya

Risk Factors for Pneumonia-Associated Infant Death in the United States, 2007-2010

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Learn more »

What is the difference between an MPH and an MSPH in BIOS?

Both the MPH and the MSPH degrees offer comprehensive instructions in theory, methods, and practice in Biostatistics. The recommendation is to choose a degree program that best fits the applicant’s mathematical preparedness. The MSPH curriculum is designed for students who have prior experience in higher-level mathematics and statistics coursework. The MSPH curriculum places stronger emphasis on mathematical rigor and statistical theory, while the MPH curriculum places emphasis on statistical modeling and data analysis. 

 

Successful MSPH applicants often have Bachelor’s degrees in statistics, mathematics, computer science, engineering, or related fields. Successful MPH applicants have demonstrated strong quantitative potential and often have Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, social sciences, and public health. In some cases, applicants are initially admitted to the MPH degree and then transferred to the MSPH degree after completing additional mathematics coursework prior to enrollment.