A minimum of 44 credit hours is required for the Master of Science (MS) with a major in Biostatistics. This degree prepares students for involvement in biostatistical research, including application of existing statistical theory to health problems, formulation of designed experiments, and adaptation of existing statistical theory for emerging health related problems.
Students must have two semesters of calculus and a course in linear algebra before matriculation. All department core courses must be passed with a grade of “B” or better. Failure to do so will necessitate repeating the course; these courses can only be repeated once.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will interpret and implement the results of standard inferential methods in given scenarios.
- Students will decipher and then communicate biostatistical analysis results.
- Students will identify and execute/apply the most appropriate biostatistical techniques to public health scenarios.
- Students will utilize biostatistical software packages to obtain, manage, and analyze public health data.
- Students will design and communicate a thesis proposal.
- Students will construct, obtain program approval of, and finish a submitted thesis.
Special Note: Contact the Biostatistics graduate director at rrmoran@mailbox.sc.edu for permission before applying after the deadline date.
Admission Requirements
- Applicants to the program must have a baccalaureate degree in arts, sciences or medicine from an accredited institution
- Students in the program must have completed Calculus 1 & Calculus 2 as well as a course in Matrix or Linear Algebra with a grade of B or better. Applicants can be accepted without meeting these requirements, but they must be completed prior to the beginning of the program.
- Grade point average of 3.00/4.00 or higher
- For international applicants, a satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - minimum score of 80 internet-based, 230 computer-based, or 570 paper-based - or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Course Type 2 exam - minimum overall band score of 6.5
- Prior professional work experience is considered an asset but is not a requirement
Application Requirements
- Resume or CV
- Statement of Purpose and Objectives describing your academic and research interests, relevant work experiences, academic/professional goals and objectives
- At least three letters of recommendation from academic and/or professional sources
- Official transcripts from all schools or colleges previously attended
- Non-US institution transcripts must be verified by World Education Services (WES) or equivalent evaluation service. Please submit a comprehensive course-by-course evaluation (WES ICAP)
- TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for those whose native language is not English
- TOEFL: Scores should be submitted electronically using the USC Institutional code 5818
- IELTS: Scores should be mailed directly to the USC Graduate School
The Graduate School
University of South Carolina
1705 College Street, Suite 552
Columbia, S.C. 29208
