Biostatistics

The DrPH and PhD programs both require written and oral qualifying examinations. These exams are taken after the completion of course work and are designed to demonstrate a student’s mastery of biostatistics sufficient to be able to conduct independent research for a doctoral dissertation in each program.

Written Qualifying Examinations

The DrPH and PhD programs each have written qualifying examinations consisting of two parts, one part emphasizing knowledge of statistical theory or inference, and the other emphasizing applications. Each program’s examinations are based on the specific course requirements and relative emphasis on theory and applications consistent with either DrPH or PhD training. Doctoral students are allowed two opportunities to sit for each part of the written qualifying examinations.

Starting in 2009, the theory and applications examinations are each offered twice a year. DrPH and PhD students will consult with their individual faculty advisors to determine when best to sit for each of their exams.

Oral Comprehensive Examination

After completing all course work and passing the written qualifying examinations, DrPH and PhD students begin planning their dissertation research.

The purpose of the Oral Comprehensive Examination in both doctoral programs is to examine the student’s mastery of the current state of knowledge about an area of research suitable for a dissertation, which will determine if the student is prepared to undertake the project. Often the topic of the Oral Comprehensive Examination will become the student’s dissertation topic, although this is not a requirement. Prior approval of the composition of the examining committee guarantees the requisite number of Biostatistics faculty as well as outside faculty representing the disciplines closely related to the student’s proposed research topic.

Upon passing the Oral Comprehensive Examination, a student will typically ask her/his sponsor or another faculty member to agree to serve as the student’s dissertation advisor and sponsor.

Students are allowed two opportunities to pass the oral comprehensive examination which is the last requirement prior to the dissertation defense.