North Carolina State University

What you'll study

The undergraduate statistics programme with a biostatistics emphasis combines core statistical theory and methods with computational practice and domain-specific coursework in biological sciences. Core modules typically include calculus and linear algebra, probability theory, mathematical statistics, statistical inference and regression analysis. Computational and applied components cover statistical programming (commonly R and Python), data management, simulation, and modern topics such as machine learning and high-dimensional data.

Biostatistics-focused work usually introduces coursework or electives in experimental design for biological studies, survival analysis, longitudinal data analysis, categorical data methods, and clinical trials methodology. Students are encouraged to take complementary courses in biology, genetics, epidemiology, public health and computational biology to support applied projects. The programme often culminates in a capstone project or practicum where students analyse real-world biological datasets, collaborate with researchers in health sciences, or complete an internship.

• Foundations: calculus, linear algebra, probability
• Core statistics: mathematical statistics, inference, regression
• Computational skills: R, Python, simulation, data management
• Biostatistics topics: survival analysis, longitudinal methods, clinical trials
• Applied experience: capstone project, undergraduate research, internships

Entry requirements

Admission to North Carolina State University is competitive and applicants will need a high-school diploma or equivalent with strong grades, especially in mathematics and science. Successful candidates typically have completed coursework in algebra, precalculus or calculus, and are comfortable with problem-solving and quantitative reasoning. Prior exposure to statistics or computer science is advantageous but not always required.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university's accepted tests and standards. Transfer applicants should expect to provide university transcripts; prior college credit in calculus, linear algebra or introductory statistics may be required or recommended for direct placement in advanced undergraduate modules.

Career prospects

Graduates with a statistics degree and biostatistics focus have a wide range of career opportunities. Typical roles include junior biostatistician or statistical programmer in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, data analyst or epidemiological analyst for public health agencies, research support positions in university or government laboratories, and roles in clinical trials data management. Skills developed in the programme also transfer to data science, health informatics, and consulting.

Many students proceed to graduate study — master’s or doctoral programmes in biostatistics, statistics, public health, or related quantitative fields — to qualify for senior biostatistician, research scientist, or academic positions. The programme’s emphasis on computing and applied projects helps graduates secure internships and early-career roles in Research Triangle Park and other biotech hubs.

Why study at North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University’s Department of Statistics offers strong undergraduate teaching coupled with opportunities for collaborative research across the university’s strengths in biological sciences, veterinary medicine and public health. The university’s location within the Research Triangle provides access to internships and industry partnerships with pharmaceutical, biotech and healthcare organisations.

Undergraduates benefit from hands-on learning: opportunities for coursework-based projects, faculty-led research, and practicum experiences that connect statistical methods to real biological datasets. The programme emphasises computational fluency and applied problem solving, and students can take advantage of cross-disciplinary electives, student organisations, and career services that support placements in health and biotech sectors.