University of San Diego

What you'll study

This applied master’s emphasises core statistical theory and modern computational methods tailored to biological and clinical applications. Core topics typically include probability and statistical inference, linear and generalized linear models, regression diagnostics, multivariate methods, and statistical computing (R and Python).

Biostatistics-specific modules commonly cover survival analysis, longitudinal data analysis, design and analysis of clinical trials, categorical data analysis, and methods for analysing high-dimensional and genomic data. Students also study practical topics such as epidemiologic study design, causal inference, reproducible research, and regulatory considerations for clinical research.

The programme normally includes a substantial applied component — for example a practicum, internship or project with a healthcare, biotechnology or public‑health partner — and may offer a choice between a capstone project and a research thesis. Electives let you deepen skills in areas such as machine learning for biomedical data, Bayesian methods, statistical consulting, and data visualisation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Strong candidates typically have a degree in statistics, mathematics, biostatistics, computer science, engineering or another quantitative discipline.

• Foundational mathematics: coursework in calculus (including multivariable), linear algebra and introductory probability/statistics.
• Programming and computing: prior experience with R, Python, SAS or similar is strongly recommended.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement describing your quantitative background and career goals, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores if required by the department’s admissions policy.
• Professional experience: relevant research, internship or work experience in a quantitative or biomedical setting strengthens an application.

International applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements and provide certified transcripts; specific documentation requirements are available from the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles as biostatisticians and statistical programmers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, contract research organisations (CROs), hospitals and health systems, government public‑health agencies, and academic research groups. Typical job titles include Biostatistician, Statistical Analyst, Clinical Data Scientist, Statistical Programmer, and Research Data Scientist.

Career activities include designing and analysing clinical trials, developing analysis plans for observational studies, implementing reproducible pipelines for genomic and high‑throughput data, and collaborating on interdisciplinary research teams. Many graduates also continue to doctoral study in biostatistics, statistics or epidemiology.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego combines a student‑centred teaching approach with opportunities for applied experience in a region that is a major hub for biotechnology, life sciences and healthcare innovation. Students benefit from small class sizes, direct access to faculty who are active researchers and consultants, and a curriculum that emphasises both theoretical foundations and hands‑on data analysis.

The university’s location offers networking and internship opportunities with hospitals, biotech firms and public‑health organisations across the San Diego region. In addition, the campus provides access to computing facilities and collaborative research projects that prepare graduates for the analytic and communication demands of careers in biostatistics.