Chapter 1
Biostatistics
Biostatistics is the science of transforming complex data into actionable knowledge that drives decision-making for public health and medicine. It provides the scientific tools to analyze big health data to quantify uncertainty, draw inferences, distinguish signals from noise to monitor disease patterns and evaluate interventions that improve health outcomes.
Table of Contents
Biostatistics Careers Outlook
Biostatistics professionals can pursue careers in areas such as:
- Data Science: Utilizes statistical models and algorithms, as well as coding in certain programming languages to analyze datasets and guide public health and healthcare decisions.
- Pharmaceutical Statistics: Supports clinical trials by evaluating the safety and efficacy of new medications through statistical analysis.
- Disease Surveillance: Tracks and monitors the spread of disease and helps map out courses of action for prevention.
- Public Health Assessment: Reviews population risks related to environmental, genetic and behavioral factors to predict public health threats.
Biostatisticians work in settings such as consulting firms, technology companies, healthcare organizations, pharmaceutical companies, academia, government and nonprofits. They contribute to public health initiatives, clinical trials, patient care, research and community health programs.
Biostatistics Master’s Degrees
At the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, two programs are offered to obtain a degree in Biostatistics; a Master of Public Health and a Master of Science.
The MPH in Biostatistics is intended for public health practitioners who frequently use statistical methods in their work. The program prepares students to adapt statistical procedures for health programs, collaborate on research studies and interpret quantitative findings in clear, accessible terms. Graduates are equipped to create effective data visualizations, apply study design principles to evaluate interventions and assess research across disciplines. This degree is ideal for those seeking to enhance their quantitative skills to address public health challenges.
The MS in Biostatistics is a research-intensive degree that combines advanced training in statistical methodology with a broad public health foundation. Ideal for students with backgrounds in science, mathematics, statistics, data science, health or medicine who are looking to build expertise for careers in research and data-driven healthcare and health industry.
The MS degree programs offer five distinct tracks:
Clinical Research Methods
Advanced training for healthcare professionals in designing and analyzing human research studies.
Pharmaceutical Statistics
Focused on statistical methods for drug development and navigating FDA regulations.
Statistical Genetics
Prepares students to analyze genetic data and study diseases using modern statistical methods.
Theory and Methods
Comprehensive training in biostatistical theory for careers as statisticians or preparation for PhD studies.
Public Health Data Science
Combines biostatistics training with cutting-edge data science techniques, including statistical learning and reproducible research.
With flexible options, credit requirements ranging from 30 to 36 and interdisciplinary training, the program equips students with expertise in statistical theory, research design, data visualization and collaborative research. This degree is ideal for those aiming to advance their careers in biostatistics or pursue further academic opportunities, such as a PhD.
Student Perspective
Nina Orwitz, PhD
Nina's path since graduation in 2017 from the Columbia Biostatistics MS program has been incredibly rewarding. She currently works at Novartis as a principal biostatistician in the Early Development Analytics division as a trial statistician for first-in-human and phase 1 trials for compounds being developed to treat patients with hematological malignancies such as leukemias and lymphomas.
The most valuable lesson Nina learned at Mailman is to be curious, inquisitive, and to always ask questions when collaborating with others, which came from courses such as the Capstone Consulting Seminar.
