Biostatistics
Learn statistical techniques to analyze clinical data.
About the Biostatistics Program
Biostatistics is an indispensable tool for improving our understanding of biological processes and has a direct impact in ensuring the safety and efficacy of pharmacological and biotechnological products. Biostatistians can be found beyond pharmacological and medical research in various fields and industries, and often work closely with economists, insurance analysts, marketing specialists, and other professionals to analyze data, assure quality control, develop policy, conduct market research, and implement cost controls. In addition, the application of biostatistics has recently expanded to include a wide-range of fields, such as medical imaging, ecological forecasting, and statistical genetics.
Recently updated with more in-depth learning on the most commonly used biostatistical methods, this specialized certificate emphasizes the application of statistical techniques to the analysis of clinical data. The course sequence begins with basic statistical concepts in biostatistics and then moves to more advanced topics, including the use of SAS, the dominant software for statistical analysis in the field.
Students will develop a clear, solid understanding of statistical methods and their applications, as well as the available software tools needed to carry out the work. In the final two courses of the program, students will master the types of analysis most commonly used in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, including simple and multiple linear regression, ANOVA and ANCOVA, simple and multiple logistic regression, and survival analysis.
Benefits:
- Hands-on comprehensive training designed to immerse the student in the skills needed to successfully get started in or advance their career
- Industry-neutral curriculum allows for students to apply knowledge to their field of interest
- Developed and taught by seasoned biostatisticians and other industry professionals
Key Topics (see individual courses for more information):
- Descriptive and inferential statistics
- SAS programming
- Simple and multiple linear regression
- Simple and multiple logistic regression
- Analysis of variance and covariance (ANOVA and ANCOVA)
- Survival analysis
- Proportional and nonproportional hazards models
- Power and sample size analyses
Frequently Asked Questions:
Program Benefits
Our program provides immersive and practical training, equipping you with the essential skills to successfully embark on or enhance your career. The convenience of online learning allows you to participate in the program from the comfort of your own home or office. Furthermore, the program has been developed and is taught by experienced biostatisticians and industry professionals, ensuring a high-quality educational experience.
By completing the program, graduates will possess the necessary expertise to apply for junior biostatistician positions. Some common entry-level biostatistics positions include:
- Junior Biostatistician
- Research Assistant in Biostatistics
- Data Analyst in Biostatistics
- Statistical Programmer
- Biostatistics Intern
- Epidemiology Research Assistant
- Clinical Trials Coordinator
- Healthcare Data Analyst
- Biostatistics Consultant
- Statistical Research Associate
These positions provide opportunities to gain practical experience in biostatistical analysis, data management, and research methodologies, laying a solid foundation for a career in biostatistics.
Key Program Topics
- Descriptive and inferential statistics
- Simple and multiple linear regression
- Simple and multiple logistic regression
- Analysis of variance and covariance (ANOVA and ANCOVA)
- Survival analysis
- Proportional and nonproportional hazards models
- Power and sample size analyses
Biostatistics
Required Courses
All three courses are required. The courses should be taken in the order suggested.
Other Courses of Interest
Not required for certificate.
Conditions for Admission
Although programs are open to all adult learners, UC San Diego Extension programs are designed to best serve college-prepared working professionals. Where program capacity is limited, applicants with this profile will receive preference for admission.
Certificate Guidelines
You may enroll in the certificate program at any time. However, it is recommended that you enroll as soon as possible. The program curriculum may be updated at any time; if certificate requirements change, you must adhere to the curriculum at the time of your enrollment into the certificate.