Epidemiology and Biostatistics, PhD: Biostatistics
The PhD program in biostatistics is designed to prepare students to be independent researchers in the development of statistical methodologies and in the appropriate and innovative application of these methodologies to biomedical research problems. In the first five semesters of the program, students complete a series of courses in both theory and applied methodology, engage in individually mentored research experiences, explore statistical collaboration, and complete the qualifications examination. Within this period, students also identify a dissertation research problem and an advisor and present a research proposal as part of the candidacy examination. Students typically defend their dissertations and graduate within five years of matriculation.
For more information: https://www.med.upenn.edu/ggeb/bio-academics.html
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
Required Courses
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | ||
| Theory Courses | ||
| BSTA 6200 | Probability I | 1 |
| BSTA 6210 | Statistical Inference I | 1 |
| BSTA 6220 | Statistical Inference II | 1 |
| Methods Courses | ||
| BSTA 5110 | Biostatistics in Practice | 1 |
| BSTA 6320 | Statistical Methods for Categorical and Survival Data | 1 |
| BSTA 6510 | Linear Models | 1 |
| BSTA 6560 | Longitudinal Data Analysis | 1 |
| BSTA 6700 | Statistical Computing | 1 |
| Additional Coursework | 6 | |
| Research Requirements | ||
| 2-6 CUs of BSTA 6990 or BSTA 8990 | 2-6 | |
| Lab Rotation | ||
| Pre-Dissertation Research | ||
| Dissertation | ||
| Guided Thesis Research | ||
| Total Course Units | 16-20 | |
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Sample Plan of Study
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Biostatistics in Practice | ||
| Probability I | ||
| Linear Models | ||
| Lab Rotation | ||
| Spring | ||
| Statistical Inference I | ||
| Statistical Methods for Categorical and Survival Data | ||
| Advanced Elective | ||
| Lab Rotation | ||
| Summer | ||
| Lab Rotation | ||
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Statistical Inference II | ||
| Longitudinal Data Analysis | ||
| Guided Thesis Research | ||
| Lab Rotation 1 | ||
or BSTA 8990 | Pre-Dissertation Research | |
| Spring | ||
| Statistical Computing | ||
Advanced Elective | ||
Advanced Elective | ||
| Lab Rotation 1 | ||
or BSTA 8990 | Pre-Dissertation Research | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Pre-Dissertation Research | ||
Advanced Elective | ||
| Advanced Elective | ||
| Advanced Elective | ||
| Spring | ||
| Dissertation | ||
| Year 4 and Beyond | ||
| Dissertation | ||