Biostatistics

The 2010 incoming class reflects the diversity and talent of our Biostatistics students. Whether pursuing an MPH, one of our MS tracks such as Theory and Methods,  Clinical Research Methods or Statistical Genetics, a DrPH or PhD, these new students ,comprising approximately equal numbers of men and women,  bring a wealth of diverse training and experience from colleges,  universities, and research centers  in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and across the US.  

Some are pursuing their first degree directly out of undergraduate school and will bring the professional training earned at Mailman back to their home countries.  Others begin their program here with an advanced degree in hand, such as an MS, MPH, MD, or PhD degree, while still others have  several (MD, PhD) advanced degrees  but are seeking  additional Biostatistical training. 

They come from South Africa, South Korea, Scotland, and Spain, Italy, India, and Israel, China, Taiwan, Pakistan, Lebanon, Turkey, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands , as well as New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, Minnesota, and California, among other national and international locales. 

Strong quantitative ability led many to specialize in mathematics, statistics, engineering, or computer  science , while others trained  in biology, psychology, biophysics, and English.  Their bio-medical  research specialties include  oncology, obstetrics and gynecology, gastroenterology,  neurology, stem cell therapy, and cover the lifespan from perinatology through gerontology including geriatric psychiatry and the study of aging, memory, and dementia.  A number of our students have already contributed to the research literature with publications in their particular fields of expertise.  

Some students bring public health experience including  urban, rural, national and global settings from  the most industrialized to the least resourced regions.  Others have witnessed the impact of health disparities in their own communities and countries and a few have tried to help solve pressing public health problems in innovative ways.   One of our new MPH students who trained in an international center for the study of diarrheal disease founded a non-profit organization that uses cell phones to empower community health workers in developing countries.  

This diversity of experience makes Columbia's Department of Biostatistics a vibrant environment of students and faculty alike.

To learn about applying, visit the Prospective Students Website.