Biostatistics Division

Study the factors that determine the distribution of health and disease in human populations, and improve the understanding of data that are relevant to issues in public health

Many issues in the health, medical, and biological sciences are addressed by collecting and exploring relevant data. The development and application of techniques to better understand such data is the fundamental concern of the Group in Biostatistics. The program offers training in theory of statistics and biostatistics, computer implementation of analytic methods, and opportunities to use this knowledge in areas of biological/medical research. The resources and facilities in the School of Public Health and the Department of Statistics, together with those of other university departments, offer a broad set of opportunities to satisfy the needs of individual students. Involvement of faculty from the Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology at UC San Francisco enriches instructional and research activities.

On-Campus Biostatistics Programs

Many issues in the health, medical and biological sciences are addressed by collecting and exploring relevant data. We offer training in the theory of statistics and biostatistics, computer implementation of analytic methods, and opportunities to use this knowledge in areas of biological and medical research.

On-Campus Epidemiology/Biostatistics Program

Our program offers a curricular track for students to acquire proficiency in both biostatistics and epidemiology. Our training emphasizes the development of skills applicable to the study of the occurrence and distribution of disease, focusing on determining the impact and magnitude of disease frequency so that effective control measures can be designed.

Online MPH - Epidemiology/Biostatistics Concentration

This is a 27-month online master of public health in epidemiology and biostatistics.

We train students to study the factors that underlie health and disease in human populations, including the analysis of data to develop and evaluate strategies for disease prevention and control. In this online program, students will acquire proficiency in both epidemiology and biostatistics and will be able to immediately apply these skills to improve the effectiveness of public health programs.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The Division of Biostatistics is committed to challenging systemic inequities in the areas of health, medical, and biological sciences, and to advancing the goals of diversity, equity, and inclusivity in Biostatistics and related fields.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Biostatistics DEI Committee is to challenge systemic inequities in the areas of health, medical, and biological sciences. Along with other divisions in the School of Public Health and the Dream Office, the Group in Biostatistics is working to reduce barriers to entry in biostatistics and is committed to fighting against racism, prejudice, and discrimination in order to create welcoming, equitable, and inclusive environments of learning and research.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives

The Biostatistics Division is committed to making our community more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the current Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives:

  • Peer mentorship program

    Since Spring 2021, we introduced a peer mentorship program to build stronger connections between senior and junior graduate students so that they can thrive in graduate school together. We hope this enables senior students to connect with and help first year students navigate the program by providing advice and answering questions as they transition from coursework to research.

  • Undergraduates Early Outreach

    The Biostatistics Division has participated in the graduate diversity admissions fair at University of California, Berkeley since 2020. In 2021, we are partnering with the Department of Statistics to launch Zoom panels to introduce the program to undergraduate students who belong to groups historically underrepresented in the graduate programs in related fields.

  • Community Outreach Information Collection

    \We are maintaining a collection of service opportunities, with a particular emphasis on STEM mentorship/tutoring programs for underrepresented groups in the field. Please directly comment on the spreadsheet using a Berkeley account to suggest additions or corrections to the list. This includes opportunities at UC Berkeley and in the broader East Bay community. All graduate students and postdoctoral scholars in related fields are encouraged to explore these service opportunities if they are interested.

For more information, contact DEI faculty advisor Corinne Riddell.