FAQ
Why should I get an Applied Biostatistics Certificate?
If you work with large or complex biomedical datasets, but have not had any formal training in applied biostatistical methods, our certificate will train you to properly analyze such data; to draw conclusions about key variables of interest and quantify their uncertainty; to design, conduct and analyze your own clinical and observational studies; to use key biostatistical software packages; and to communicate your results to non-statistical colleagues.
Who is eligible for the program?
The certificate is designed for functioning biostatisticians or people with similar jobs who may be employed by government agencies or private drug and biomedical companies. You must have at least three years of relevant experience and an undergraduate degree.
How long does the certificate take?
The courses are offered online or in-class and the five courses may be completed in five terms by attending part time and taking one course per term. The certificate must be completed within four years of matriculation.
Can I transfer credits from the certificate to a degree program at the School of Public Health?
Students are allowed to transfer up to three credits from other biostatistics programs toward their certificate, subject to the approval of the admissions committee.
Students who complete the certificate and who are interested in a biostatistics master’s degree may use up to six credits toward a subsequent MS or MPH. Specifically, students who have successfully completed the certificate program will have the health sciences elective (3 credits) and one biostatistics elective (3 credits) waived in their biostatistics MS or MPH programs under the following criteria:
- Courses are completed for graduate credit
- A grade of B or higher must be achieved
- Certificate courses were completed within the five years prior to application to a graduate program
Can I transfer credits into the certificate program?
The School of Public Health has policies in place governing transfer credit. If you wish to apply credits you have earned as a non-degree seeking student, from another institution, or from another degree program at the University of Minnesota, please contact the program staff for detailed information. Credits may only be transferred if they appear on a graduate level transcript, were taken within the last 5 years, and have a grade of B or better. In most circumstances, you can transfer in only up to 40% of your program credits (which translates into approximately 6 credits) that were taken prior to formal admission to the certificate. Some exceptions apply. Certificates are not awarded retroactively.
What if I’m already a student in the School of Public Health? Do I still need to apply?
Yes. All prospective students, regardless of their current status in the School of Public Health, must apply and be admitted to the program before completing all program requirements if they wish to earn a certificate. Certificates are not awarded retroactively.
Is financial aid available?
No. Students accepted to the Applied Biostatistics Certificate are not eligible to apply for federal financial aid.
How must does the certificate cost?
The School of Public Health charges tuition on a per credit basis. The 2022-2023 tuition rate is $1,070.00 per credit (resident); $1,406.00 per credit (nonresident).
Are scholarships available?
There are no current scholarship opportunities within the School of Public Health. Most students in the program finance their education through their employer’s education benefits, outside scholarships, and personal resources.
Once my application is complete, how soon can I expect to hear from the School of Public Health?
It can take the admission committee two to four weeks to review your application. You will hear from the School of Public Health via email.
