Biostatistics (CERT)

Graduate Certificate in Biostatistics
Unit: School of Public Health and Information Science (GH)
Department: Bioinformatics and Biostatistics
Program Website 
Academic Plan Code(s): BDSCCBS, BDSCCBSO 

Program Information

This program can be completed in a traditional classroom format or entirely online.

The Department of Biostatistics offers this certificate program to deliver core biostatistics instruction to a wide spectrum of the industrial workforce. Students are required to complete at least 15 credit hours of core and elective coursework. The program provides an ideal path for students and professionals seeking to enhance their data analytic and decision-making skills. In addition, individuals who are interested in the possibility of entering the MS program in Biostatistics can use this program as a stepping stone to the master's degree.

Competencies

The core competencies of the Certificate in Biostatistics program include knowledge of basic Biostatistical methods, basic knowledge of data management and statistical computing and a preliminary exposure to research design.

• Analyze moderately complex research data using statistical methods involving common linear statistical models. [C4]*
• Manage data and conduct elementary statistical computing using SAS software. [C3]*
• Critique/design basic methods for moderately complex research problems [C6]*

Demonstration of the competencies is accomplished by successful completion of all certificate curriculum activities.

* Bracketed codes represent cognitive domain levels from Bloom’s Taxonomy

Faculty Advisor

On matriculation, each student is assigned a faculty advisor and is requested to meet at least once a semester (face-to-face or using a video conferencing tool) with his or her advisor. The faculty advisor works with the student to develop a program of study and serves as an academic mentor and counselor on career and employment opportunities, professional development, and opportunities beyond the certificate.

Admission Requirements

• Graduate application submitted to the Graduate School
• Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in basic sciences, economics, psychology, or in a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. The curriculum must contain a statistics or biostatistics course at the sophomore level or higher and at least two courses in basic sciences.
• Preferred minimum GPA is 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.
• At least two letters of recommendation written within past twelve months, submitted as part of the application.
• Non-refundable application fee.
• Postsecondary transcripts. Transcripts from institutions outside of the United States may require a foreign credential evaluation.
• Proficiency in English language is a requirement and a key to the success in the program. 

Application Deadline

Fall semester – July 1 (International applicants); July 25 (Domestic applicants).

Spring semester – Applications are not accepted.

Summer semester – April 1 (International applicants); April 15 (Domestic applicants).

Information contact:

Dr. K.B. Kulasekera
kb.kulasekera@louisville.edu
(502) 852-1827

Curriculum

The curriculum calls for completing 15-16 credit hours using courses listed below. 

Certificate Requirements