2014-2015 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Master of Science in Biostatistics
For additional information about opportunities your college offers, please refer to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences section in this catalog.
The M.S. in biostatistics is one of three new synergistic professional science master (PSM) degree programs at Grand Valley State University. The three programs (medical and bioinformatics, biotechnology, and biostatistics) are interdisciplinary and involve both the university and its industry partners. All three programs emphasize teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and scientific knowledge and technical skills. Each program is designed to integrate university coursework with business/industrial internships to better prepare students for the variety of career pathways associated with the life science and health science industries. The overall objectives and interactions of these three new programs are described in the PSM section of the Grand Valley State University Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog.
The requirements for the M.S. in biostatistics consists of 36 credits with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Consistent with Grand Valley State University policy all courses must be completed within 8 consecutive years from entry into the first graduate course.
Admission to Master of Science in Biostatistics Program
- Grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale from all undergraduate coursework or a satisfactory score on the GRE.
- Resume detailing work experiences and accomplishments.
- Personal statement of career goals and background experiences, including an explanation of how this program will help achieve educational and professional objectives.
- Letters of recommendations from at least two individuals who are in positions to attest to the applicant's successful completion of the program.
Requirements for the M.S. in Biostatistics
Students must complete the following requirements:
1. The PSM Core Courses (Credits: 11)
- CMB 610 - Foundations of Biotechnology Credits: 3
- CIS 661 - Introduction to Medical and Bioinformatics Credits: 3
- PSM 650 - Ethics and Professionalism in Applied Science Credits: 3
- STA 610 - Applied Statistics for Health Professions Credits: 3 OR STA 622 - Statistical Methods for Biologists (3 credits)
2. The Directed Courses for the Biostatistics Program (Credits: 19)
Electives (at least 4 credits) are selected, with advisor approval, from graduate courses that are appropriate to each students interests and goals. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their advisor during their first semester to develop specific plans for their elective coursework.
- STA 616 - Statistical Programming Credits: 3
- STA 621 - Design of Experiments and Regression Credits: 4
- STA 623 - Categorical Data Analysis Credits: 3
- STA 625 - Clinical Trials Credits: 2
- STA 630 - Perspectives in Advanced Biostatistics Credits: 3
3. The PSM Seminar Course (Credits: 2)
- PSM 661 - Seminar in Professional Science Practice I Credits: 1
- PSM 662 - Seminar in Professional Science Practice Credits: 2
4. An Internship Experience (at least 4 credits):
- PSM 691 - Internship Credits: 1 to 9