Aug. 16, 2023
Next Start Date
6
Courses Required
$880
Cost Per Credit Hour
15
Total Credit Hours
Program Details
Students in the Applied Biostatistics Certificate program typically take one to two classes per semester. Completion of the 15-credit-hour program usually takes two years.
Coursework begins with a traditional introduction to biostatistics in which basic principles of statistical inference and data analysis are introduced, along with a corresponding computing section that demonstrates analytic tools in a practical setting using statistical software. Later courses cover regression principles and more sophisticated data analysis techniques. All of the courses incorporate important epidemiologic concepts, and an introductory course in epidemiology is recommended early in the program.
The final capstone course allows students to utilize the knowledge gained in their coursework to analyze real data of their own in a comprehensive manner. Students work on a dedicated data analysis stemming from their own research or the work of others, culminating in a final research paper. Although there are no formal class meetings, students complete the equivalent of 30 contact hours, plus assignments, by the end of the semester. A formal report or manuscript, depending on the situation of the student, is required at the end of the semester.
The primary objectives of the program are to:
- Describe basic concepts of probability and statistical inference;
- Demonstrate standard techniques of database management and analysis;
- Compare and contrast study designs common to health research;
- Recognize the primary sources of bias observed in health research;
- Interpret appropriate inferences from data, based on strengths and limitations of major epidemiologic study designs, as well as the results of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses.
Admissions
To be considered for the fall, students should submit their application by August 1. Completed applications are sent to the department for review. Students will receive an e-mail from the department regarding their acceptance.
Admission Requirements
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a preferred overall GPA of 3.0 (official transcripts required)
- Essay describing previous education and experience and career objectives
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- At least two letters of recommendation
- Computer skills are a program requirement. It is the responsibility of the student to become skilled in computer applications and to participate in the Health Sciences Center Mandatory Laptop Program.
- Students currently enrolled at WVU should also submit the online application, but need to contact Associate Professor Christa Lilly, PhD, prior to application.
- Complete the WVU graduate application and indicate Applied Biostatistics Certificate and submit with the processing fee.
- Submit official school transcripts and official GRE scores to:
WVU HSC Admissions
64 Medical Center Drive
1170 HSC North
Morgantown, WV 26506 - International students must submit to:
Office of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment
PO Box 6510
Morgantown, WV 26506-6510
Program Contact:
Christa Lilly, MS, PhD
Associate Professor, Epidemiology and Biostatistics
(304) 293-6515
Email:
cllilly@hsc.wvu.edu
Please allow 48 hours for a response