MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Biostatistics is a new and emerging field that is becoming increasingly relevant in society today. Biostatistics is unique in the fact that unlike other subjects, it can be approached from a life sciences perspective as well as a statistics perspective. However, the fact that it is so new means that there is little information available to prospective students on how to apply and what a competitive application looks like. As a student interested in pursuing a career in biostatistics, this document will serve as a guide to help fellow students get on track for graduate school using the information I have looked up to aid my own application. After a brief FAQ that will touch on all the major points covered, I will discuss what kind of work a biostatistician does, as well as what kinds of companies a biostatistician can expect to work for. Next, I will go in depth on what kinds of coursework and internships successful applicants complete during their undergraduate degrees. Finally, I will describe the admissions requirements for local graduate schools in the Maryland area, as well as a few out of state options, and how each school differs in their criteria.

WC = 197

Reader Profile: I expect two main readers of this document. The first group will most likely be fellow life science majors who have decided to consider the field of biostatistics, and want to find out more about it, as well as how to apply. The second group will probably be much smaller. Nevertheless, I still expect some high schoolers to read this document as they try to decide what they want to do with their careers.

Reader Response: Biostatistics seems like a very interesting field to get into, especially since I don’t particularly want to get into a career in the medical or healthcare field. Even though I had doubts about going into a more quantitative field after undergraduate school, I now see that biostatistics schools aren’t just statistics programs. They are looking for students coming from both sides of the field, and I feel like if I adjust my schedule of courses a little bit to include a few more math and statistics classes, I could have a good shot of getting into a good graduate school.

M, what about math/stats people, too? That might be more plausible than high school students.

Can you drop by with your document drafts so we can consult on tone? I might also suggest that you write an introductory note, in first person, about your quest. Then, let the document read with third person authority.

Did you find Department of Labor predictions on career growth and salary? That is important to all readers.

Finally, is the typical career degree the MS? Rather than the PhD?