Program Details

Start Date Fall
Duration 4-6 Years
Tuition Approx. $58,160 per year (Note: Most admitted PhD students receive full tuition remission, a stipend, and health insurance coverage.)
Format On-campus
Credits Coursework + Dissertation

Program Statistics

Acceptance Rate Highly competitive; specific rate not publicly disclosed.%
Employment Rate Graduates typically secure positions as biostatisticians or research scientists in diverse settings, including academic institutions (e.g., faculty, post-doctoral researchers), pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government health agencies (e.g., NIH, CDC, FDA), contract research organizations (CROs), and health technology firms. Career outcomes are excellent given the strong demand for highly trained biostatisticians.%

The PhD in Biostatistics program at New York University, housed within the Department of Population Health at the Grossman School of Medicine, is a rigorous and comprehensive doctoral program designed to train the next generation of leaders in biostatistical methodology and application. This program provides students with a strong foundation in statistical theory, advanced methods, and computational skills necessary to address complex problems in public health and biomedical research. Students engage in cutting-edge research alongside distinguished faculty, leveraging NYU’s vast resources and interdisciplinary environment.

This program is ideal for individuals with a strong quantitative background—typically in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related field—who are passionate about developing and applying statistical methods to improve human health. Graduates are prepared for successful careers in academia, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, government agencies, and research institutions, contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and public health initiatives through innovative statistical science. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical depth and practical application, ensuring students are well-equipped to tackle real-world data challenges.

Advertisement

Curriculum

The PhD curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training in biostatistics, combining rigorous theoretical coursework with practical application and extensive research opportunities. Key components typically include:

  • Core Courses: Advanced courses in probability theory, statistical inference, linear models, generalized linear models, causal inference, survival analysis, longitudinal data analysis, and statistical computing.
  • Elective Courses: Students select electives in specialized areas of biostatistics or related fields (e.g., machine learning, bioinformatics, epidemiology) to tailor their studies to specific research interests.
  • Qualifying Examinations: Comprehensive exams covering core biostatistical theory and methods, typically taken after the first two years of coursework.
  • Dissertation Research: A significant component of the program involving original research leading to a doctoral dissertation, demonstrating the student's ability to conduct independent scholarly work and make a novel contribution to the field.
  • Seminars and Journal Clubs: Participation in departmental seminars, research presentations, and journal clubs to stay current with cutting-edge research and engage with the broader scientific community.
  • Teaching and Research Assistantships: Opportunities for students to gain experience in teaching and contribute to faculty research projects.

Admission Requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong academic record and a solid quantitative background. Typical requirements include:

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree: From an accredited institution in a quantitative field such as statistics, mathematics, computer science, engineering, economics, or a public health discipline with a strong quantitative focus.
  • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Three strong letters of recommendation, preferably from academic or professional references who can speak to the applicant's research potential and quantitative abilities.
  • Statement of Purpose: A personal statement outlining academic background, research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Biostatistics at NYU.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume: Detailing academic history, research experience, publications, presentations, and any relevant work experience.
  • GRE General Test: Often optional or waived for recent application cycles; applicants should check the most current program guidelines.
  • English Language Proficiency: For international applicants whose native language is not English, official scores from TOEFL or IELTS are typically required, unless they have completed a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction.

Application Process

The application process for the PhD in Biostatistics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine generally involves the following steps:

  1. Online Application: Complete the online application form through the NYU Grossman School of Medicine's admissions portal.
  2. Submit Required Documents: Upload all necessary supporting documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, CV/resume, and GRE scores (if required/submitted).
  3. Pay Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is typically required at the time of submission.
  4. English Proficiency Scores: If applicable, ensure official TOEFL or IELTS scores are sent directly to NYU.
  5. Application Review: Applications are reviewed by the admissions committee, which evaluates academic background, research potential, and alignment with program goals.
  6. Interviews: Highly qualified candidates may be invited for interviews with faculty members, either in-person or virtually, to discuss their research interests and suitability for the program.
  7. Admission Decision: Applicants will be notified of their admission decision by the program.

Application Fee: $85

Apply Now

Interested in this program? Use the form below to request more information or start your application.

Application form integration pending.