Biostatistics

Unlike other programs which are tied to statistics, Harvard's biostatistics program is specifically related to public health. The program has a rich history of innovation in addressing the greatest challenges in public health, biomedical research, computational biology, and now health data science. You will be joining a community of leading scientists and educators from around the world with easy access to Boston- and Cambridge-area hospitals such as Harvard Medical School, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, and other world-class hospitals.

Current and former students are exploring important issues such as how biostatisticians play a critical role in discovering and developing medicine, using statistical methods in relation to electronic health records research, researching emotional and behavioral issues among youth born to women living with HIV, and working to understand the causes of long-term COVID.

Graduates of the program have secured faculty and research positions at diverse institutions such as Princeton University, Brown University, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Stanford University, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Others have gone into non-academic careers at organizations such as the HealthCore, Cerus Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb, RAND Corporation, the World Health Organization, and Genentech.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Biostatistics and requirements for the degree are detailed in GSAS Policies.

STEP 1: CHOOSE A PROGRAM

GSAS offers master’s and PhD degrees in programs based in the arts and humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering and applied sciences. Many programs also allow a student to conduct more focused research by choosing an area of study. Review the programs on offer to decide which best meets your academic goals.

STEP 2: MAKE A NOTE OF THE APPLICATION DEADLINE

Application deadlines vary by program and are noted on the program page.

STEP 3: Review the STANDARDIZED TESTS requirements

Programs may require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test or subject test scores. Applicants who are non-native English speakers may be required to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting scores from an English Language test (TOEFL or IELTS). Review the admissions policy on English Proficiency for more information. Be sure to register early for required tests.

STEP 4: COMPLETE YOUR APPLICATION BY THE DEADLINE

The online application becomes available in September. The application and all components are due by 5:00 p.m., eastern time, on the deadline date.