Academic Background
Applicants to the PhD in Biostatistics program must have a prior Bachelor's degree. Applicants with a Master's degree in biostatistics, statistics, or applied mathematics will be given preference for admission and financial support.
A competitive applicant to the PhD in Biostatistics will have a strong quantitative background, including:
- At least three semesters of college-level calculus through multivariable/vector calculus is required
- In addition, one semester of linear algebra is strongly recommended
A minimum grade point average of 3.2 is required for a competitive applicant. GPA is calculated based on the last 60 undergraduate units, or if the applicant has 12 or more graduate units, the GPA will be based on graduate units.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide a minimum of three letters of recommendation that demonstrate the applicant's quantitative abilities and the extent of experience or interest in the biological or health sciences. Letter of recommendation may be written by academic advisors, professors, supervisors, mentors or anyone else familiar with his or her academic and/or professional ability. Letters may submitted to SOPHAS either electronically or by mail.
Resume or CV
Applicants are asked to submit a resume or CV outlining his or her academic and professional experience and achievements.
Personal Statement of Experience and Goals
The personal statement should include:
- Why you are interested in the PhD in Biostatistics program
- Specific areas of interest in biostatistics
- Reason for selection of this program
- Academic and professional background, including experience/expertise with statistics and public health related topics
- Future goals and objectives
GRE Scores
Applicants must submit official scores of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). GRE test scores are recommended, but not required, for applicants holding a doctoral degree from a U.S. institution. GRE scores of 1200 or higher (combined verbal and quantitative) are considered competitive. The analytical writing portion of the GRE is required. When completing Graduate Record Examination (GRE) applications, please indicate The University of Arizona institutional code #4832, which is listed under Arizona. For more information about the GRE, visit the GRE website.
Writing Sample
The writing sample may be a paper, article, or report written for work or school that highlights the applicant's research and writing abilities. Applicants may submit their writing sample electronically to the Office of Student Services and Alumni Affairs at phadmit@email.arizona.edu.
Other Factors
Experience in a health related field, voluntary or paid, strengthens all applications.
Further Information
For more information about the PhD program, please visit the PhD Biostatistics page, or contact Becky Corran, Recruitment and Admissions Coordinator, at phadmit@u.arizona.edu or 520.626.3201.
