What is biostatistics?
Biostatistics is the science of applying statistical theory and principles to research in medicine, biology, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, public health, and other related fields.
Welcome to the Department of Biostatistics, one of the departments of West Virginia University’s School of Public Health. Faculty members in the department develop new statistical methodology and provide the quantitative component to public health and biomedical research efforts. As biostatisticians, the faculty create, evaluate, and apply methods for quantitative research in the health sciences. The design, development and application of analytic methods enable health scientists and professionals in academia, government, and pharmaceutical companies to construct knowledge and draw valid conclusions from their data.
As you review our department's MPH program, you will see we provide a solid foundation in statistical methodology as well as training in applying quantitative methods to biomedical and public health problems. The new Applied Biostatistics Certificate program, available online, will provide indviduals from a variety of backgrounds practical skills to understand and apply standard biostatistical techniques. The Department's extensive array of collaborative research projects allows students to obtain extensive practical experience to prepare them for careers in Biostatistics. In addition to an extensive collaborative effort, the Department of Biostatistics is committed to the development of statistical methodology in order to better analyze and interpret studies in public health and medicine.