Biostatistics PhD

Major: Biostatistics
Degree Awarded: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Calendar Type: Quarter
Minimum Required Credits: 90.0 (post-bachelor's) or 51.0 (post-master's)
Co-op Option: None
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 26.1102
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 15-2041

About the Program

Note - this program will not accept students for the 2025-26 academic year

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biostatistics trains highly functional statistical researchers with the breadth of knowledge to contribute to many applied domains or to specialize in a single theoretical domain, with the goal of becoming independent researchers upon completion of the program. Students will receive a strong, quantitative foundational core in statistical theory while simultaneously having opportunities to apply these concepts to a wide range of health applications. An important feature of the program is deliberate exposure to more contemporary quantitative concepts in data science.

The program offers interdisciplinary instruction and research opportunities that are designed to provide a solid training in both statistical theory and in applications of biostatistical methods to a variety of relevant contexts that are central to modern interdisciplinary research, while providing practical skills to effectively contribute to the interdisciplinary research. The program will prepare students for successful careers in academia (both teaching and research), government agencies, private health-related organizations/industries, and many other data-driven industries. 

Students will take a comprehensive exam that requires them to synthesize foundational coursework and demonstrate mastery of public health competencies. Students will then develop and defend a dissertation proposal and complete a dissertation of publishable quality and final defense.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please contact:

DSPH Academic Advising Team
Office of Education
​dsphadvising@drexel.edu

Additional information can be found on the Dornsife School of Public Health website, including admissions criteria and how to apply.

Degree Requirements

Post-Bachelor's Student requirements

*

Students are required to complete the TA Orientation and Preparation Course and the Responsible Conduct of Research Training.

**

Foundational Public Health Learning Objectives: PBHL 501 is only required for students who do not have a degree from a CEPH accredited school.

***

Additional courses outside of DSPH may count with faculty mentor approval.

Students may be able to use elective credits to further focus their academic work by completing a graduate minor or by coupling a DSPH graduate certificate. Students must have enough applicable elective credits to complete the certificate program without going beyond the required credits for the program. Students can contact their academic advisor for more information.

Post Master's Student Requirements

*

Students are required to complete the TA Orientation and Preparation Course and the Responsible Conduct of Research Training.

**

Foundational Public Health Learning Objectives: PBHL 501 is only required for students who do not have a degree from a CEPH accredited school.

***

Additional courses outside of DSPH may count with faculty mentor approval.

Students may be able to use elective credits to further focus their academic work by completing a graduate minor or by coupling a DSPH graduate certificate. Students must have enough applicable elective credits to complete the certificate program without going beyond the required credits for the program. Students can contact their academic advisor for more information.

Sample Plan of Study

Full-Time Post-Master's

*

PBHL 501 is only required for students who do not have a degree from a CEPH accredited school.

**

Note: A 4.5-credit minimum is required (considered half-time status) for graduate programs to be considered financial aid eligible. If registration is less than 4.5 credits, aid will not be disbursed to students this term.

Part-Time Post-Master's

*

PBHL 501 is only required for students who do not have a degree from a CEPH accredited school.

**

Note: A 4.5-credit minimum is required (considered half-time status) for graduate programs to be considered financial aid eligible. If registration is less than 4.5 credits, aid will not be disbursed to students this term.

Full Time Post-Bachelor's

*

PBHL 501 is only required for students who do not have a degree from a CEPH accredited school.

**

Note: A 4.5-credit minimum is required (considered half-time status) for graduate programs to be considered financial aid eligible. If registration is less than 4.5 credits, aid will not be disbursed to students this term.

Part-Time Post-Bachelor's

*

PBHL 501 is only required for students who do not have a degree from a CEPH accredited school

**

Note: A 4.5-credit minimum is required (considered half-time status) for graduate programs to be considered financial aid eligible. If registration is less than 4.5 credits, aid will not be disbursed to students this term.

Program Level Outcomes