Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) in Biostatistics

Mission

 The mission of the program is to advance the field of biostatistics/public health by training students in applied data analysis in the areas of public health and medicine, through course work, seminars, workshops and practicum training

Description

The MSPH program emphasizes applied data analysis in the areas of public health and medicine, by preparing students to analyze data in a wide range of settings, including industrial health surveillance and research programs; local, state, and federal governmental agencies; pharmaceutical research divisions; university research programs; and consulting firms. Students learn to assist in selecting a design appropriate for the goals of the research, estimate sample size requirements, establish and maintain data bases, select and conduct the appropriate statistical analysis, and communicate the results of the analysis orally and in writing in the fields of public health. Coursework concentrates on developing these statistical skills through the use of actual data sets and computerized statistical software packages. 

Program Competencies: 

After completing the MSPH degree in Biostatistics, the graduate will be able to:

1.      Incorporate knowledge of the core areas of epidemiology, environmental health, health systems management, and the biological, behavioral, social, and cultural aspects of health and disease, in selecting and applying appropriate biostatistical procedures. (EPID 6030, ENHS 6030, HSMG 6030, SPHL 6010, SPHL 6030)

2.      Select and conduct appropriate statistical procedures for evaluation of public health intervention and surveillance programs.  (BIOS 6040, 7060, 7150, 7250)

3.      Contribute to the design of public health programs by estimating the required sample size and power for program monitoring. (BIOS 6040, 7080, 7150, 7250).

4.      Exhibit proficiency in programming using standard statistical software such as SAS, SPSS and STATA (BIOS 6230, 6240, 6280)

5.      Design and manage data bases and analysis datasets (BIOS 6220, BIOS 6230, 6240, 6280)

Graduation Requirements:  The program requires a minimum of 42 graduate credits, 200 hours of practicum experience and a culminating experience

Public Health Practicum (SPHL 9980)

All Biostatistics MSPH students are required to complete a field practicum of 200 hours.  The description and specific requirements of the practicum, as well as all important deadlines are detailed in the Practicum Handbook.

Some examples of practicum opportunities in Biostatistics

• Genetics and childhood lead poisoning prevention program
• Maternal childhood program
• Tobacco control and prevention program

Culminating Experience In Biostatistics (SPHL 7950)

All MSPH students are also required to complete a culminating experience that draws together the students' classroom learning and practice experiences.  This requirement can be satisfied by completing one of the following options.

1.  Research Thesis, described in detail in the Thesis Outline.

2.  Public Health Analysis Manuscript, described in detail in the Public Health Analysis Outline. or

3.  Culminating Examination. This is a comprehensive exam in two parts. Part A covers public health core competencies. Part B covers department specialty.

Model Course Schedule – Fall Entry

* Bios 6230 is recommended to be taken in the first semester if student does not have prior expertise in SAS

Contact:  For more information on the MSPH program in Biostatistics, please contact

Susan Gautier
Phone: (504)988-2102
Fax: (504)988-1706
Email: sgautie@tulane.edu

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