University of Central Oklahoma

What you'll study

The curriculum builds a strong foundation in calculus and linear algebra, then moves into probability, mathematical statistics and applied statistical methods. Core topics typically include:

• Calculus and Linear Algebra – multivariable calculus and matrix methods to provide the mathematical tools used in statistical modelling.
• Probability and Mathematical Statistics – probability theory, estimation, hypothesis testing and asymptotic methods.
• Applied Regression and ANOVA – linear and generalized linear models, model diagnostics and analysis of variance.
• Statistical Computing – programming for data analysis using R and/or Python, data management, reproducible research and use of statistical software such as SAS.
• Biostatistics and Epidemiologic Methods – design and analysis of clinical trials, survival analysis, longitudinal data methods and fundamentals of epidemiology.
• Design of Experiments and Sampling – principles of experimental design, power and sample-size calculation, and survey sampling techniques.
• Electives and Applied Projects – interdisciplinary electives in biology, public health or computer science and an applied capstone or practicum that emphasises real-world health data.

Students can expect laboratory-style classes and computer-based assignments, opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty, and a capstone experience or internship to demonstrate applied biostatistical skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme follows general undergraduate admission policies. Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and present a strong mathematics background, typically including Algebra II and precalculus; prior exposure to calculus is strongly recommended. Typical expectations include a competitive high-school GPA and satisfactory standardized test scores where required or submitted. Transfer students should provide official college transcripts and usually need a minimum cumulative college GPA to be considered.

Successful applicants to the major will benefit from introductory coursework in calculus and college algebra; those without calculus readiness may be advised to complete preparatory mathematics before taking core statistics courses. International applicants must meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a biostatistics emphasis are prepared for roles that combine statistical expertise with health- and life-science knowledge. Common entry-level positions include:

• Biostatistician or statistical analyst in hospitals, public-health agencies and research institutes
• Data analyst or research associate in pharmaceutical, biotechnology and clinical-trials organisations
• Public-health data specialist working with state or local health departments
• Clinical research coordinator or outcomes analyst in healthcare systems

Many graduates also continue to graduate study (master’s or PhD) in biostatistics, epidemiology, data science or related fields to pursue advanced research or senior quantitative roles.

Why study at University of Central Oklahoma

University of Central Oklahoma offers a campus environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty for mentoring and research collaboration. The university’s location near a major metropolitan area provides internship and practicum opportunities with hospitals, public-health agencies and private-sector employers. Students benefit from hands-on training in statistical software and computing, interdisciplinary elective options in biology and public health, and career services that help connect graduates with local and regional employers. The programme emphasises applied skills and professional preparation for careers in health-related data analysis or further study in graduate programmes.