Epidemiology and Biostatistics: Biostatistics, PhD
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/ggeb-courses.html
View the University’s Academic Requirements for PhD Degrees.
Required Courses
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | ||
| Theory Courses | ||
| BSTA 620 | Probability I | |
| BSTA 621 | Statisical Inference I | |
| BSTA 622 | Statistical Inference II | |
| Methods Courses | ||
| BSTA 630 | Statistical Methods and Data Analysis I | |
| BSTA 632 | Statistical Methods for Categorical and Survival Data | |
| BSTA 651 | Introduction to Linear Models and Generalized Linear Models | |
| BSTA 656 | Longitudinal Data Analysis | |
| BSTA 660 | Design of Observational Studies | |
| BSTA 661 | Design of Interventional Studies | |
| BSTA 670 | Statistical Computing | |
| BSTA 754 | Advanced Survival Analysis | |
| BSTA 511 | Biostatistics in Practice | |
| Additional Coursework | ||
| Electives | ||
| BSTA 751 | Statistical Methods for Neuroimaging | |
| BSTA 771 | Applied Bayesian Analysis | |
| BSTA 774 | Statistical Methods for Evaluating Diagnostic Tests | |
| BSTA 779 | Semiparametric Inference | |
| BSTA 782 | Stat Meth/Incomplet Data | |
| BSTA 783 | Multivar/Funct Data Anal | |
| BSTA 785 | Stat Meth/Genomic Data | |
| BSTA 786 | Adv Topics/Clin Trials | |
| BSTA 787 | Methods for Statistical Genetics and Genomics in Complex Human Disease | |
| BSTA 788 | Functional Data Analysis | |
| BSTA 789 | Big Data | |
| BSTA 790 | Causal Inference in Biomedical Research | |
| Research Requirements | ||
| BSTA 699 | Lab Rotation | |
| BSTA 899 | Pre-Dissertation Research | |
| BSTA 995 | Dissertation | |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2020 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 | ||
| Probability I | ||
| Statistical Methods and Data Analysis I | ||
| Design of Observational Studies | ||
| Design of Interventional Studies | ||
| Lab Rotation | ||
| Spring | ||
| Statisical Inference I | ||
| Statistical Methods for Categorical and Survival Data | ||
| Introduction to Linear Models and Generalized Linear Models | ||
| Lab Rotation | ||
| Summer | ||
| Lab Rotation | ||
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Statistical Inference II | ||
| Advanced Survival Analysis | ||
| Longitudinal Data Analysis | ||
| Biostatistics in Practice | ||
| Lab Rotation 1 | ||
or BSTA 899 | Pre-Dissertation Research | |
| Spring | ||
| Statistical Computing | ||
Advanced Elective/Minor | ||
| Lab Rotation 1 | ||
or BSTA 899 | Pre-Dissertation Research | |
Elective | ||
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Pre-Dissertation Research | ||
Elective | ||
| Spring | ||
| Dissertation | ||
| Year 4 and Beyond | ||
| Dissertation | ||
Elective | ||
| 1 | Students should take BSTA 699 Lab Rotation if mentor is not yet selected or BSTA 899 Pre-Dissertation Research if mentor has been selected. |