Biostatistics

Program Description: The Master of Science (MSc) in Biostatistics at the University of Toronto is a comprehensive graduate program designed to equip students with the essential statistical skills and methodologies necessary for advancing research in health sciences and biomedical fields. This program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates to analyze complex biological data, design research studies, and interpret statistical results accurately. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including statistical inference, experimental design, survival analysis, longitudinal data analysis, and bioinformatics, with an emphasis on their relevance to modern biomedical research.

Throughout the MSc program, students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on training through collaborative projects, internships, and research activities facilitated by leading experts in biostatistics, epidemiology, and health sciences. The curriculum promotes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to work closely with faculty members from diverse backgrounds such as medicine, public health, and data science. This collaboration fosters a rich educational environment focused on solving real-world health problems through innovative statistical approaches.

The program also offers specialization options, enabling students to tailor their studies towards areas such as clinical trials, genetic epidemiology, or health data analytics. Graduates of the MSc in Biostatistics will be well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, government agencies, research institutes, or the healthcare industry, where their expertise will contribute to evidence-based decision-making and policy development. Admission requirements include a solid foundation in mathematics and statistics, along with relevant academic qualifications. The program’s flexible structure accommodates both full-time and part-time students, supporting a diverse student body dedicated to advancing health research and improving population outcomes through statistical excellence.

Required Courses

• All students are required to take the courses listed here. Those who have completed them at the Master’s level and have achieved at least an A-, may be given an exemption and be required to replace these courses with electives.
• Students who have taken their MSc in the department, may have taken some or all of these courses already. In this case their program of study will be designed with consultation of the program director at the time of admission.

Comprehensive Examination

PhD students are required to attempt the comprehensive exam within the first year of entering the program. The examination, which is usually offered in the late summer, involves both theoretical and practical components, divided into three parts. The theoretical component comprises two in-class exams of 5 hours each, the first (Part I) covering foundations such as probability and mathematical statistics, and the second (Part II) covering biostatistical methodology. The format for the practical component (Part III) is a take-home exam, where the student is given one week to submit a report which summarizes the statistical analysis of at least one dataset.

• Master’s degree with research experience from a recognized university*
• A- (A minus) average in Master’s program in a relevant area of study
• Research experience

The University of Toronto offers several funding options for students enrolled in the Biostatistics graduate programs, including Master's and Doctoral degrees. Financial support is primarily available through scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships. Prospective and current students are encouraged to explore internal scholarships such as the University of Toronto fellowships, which are awarded based on academic excellence and research potential. Additionally, the School of Graduate Studies provides various merit-based awards that support students throughout their studies. Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs) are common forms of financial support, offering students the opportunity to gain valuable teaching or research experience while receiving a stipend that helps cover tuition fees and living expenses. These assistantships are highly competitive and are typically awarded based on academic performance and relevant experience. Students are also encouraged to seek external funding sources, such as government grants, research councils, and private organizations, which can provide supplementary financial support. The university's career services and research offices provide guidance on applying for such external funding. International students should also be aware of scholarship opportunities available specifically for international scholars, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. It's important to note that funding availability and criteria may vary year to year, and students are advised to consult the university's official website and the program's admissions office for the most current information. Overall, the University of Toronto's Biostatistics programs are committed to supporting students financially, recognizing that financial stability enhances academic success and research productivity.

The Master of Science in Biostatistics at the University of Toronto is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in biostatistics, epidemiology, public health, and related fields. The program emphasizes the development of advanced statistical skills tailored to biomedical research, clinical trials, and public health data analysis. Students gain expertise in statistical computing, study design, data management, and analysis methodologies essential for contemporary research environments. The curriculum includes coursework in probability theory, statistical inference, regression models, survival analysis, longitudinal data analysis, and Bayesian methods, among others. The program also offers opportunities for students to engage in research projects, collaborate with faculty on ongoing studies, and develop practical skills through internships and practicum placements.

The program is suitable for students with backgrounds in mathematics, statistics, health sciences, or related disciplines who seek to enhance their quantitative analysis capabilities. Graduate students are supervised by faculty members who are recognized experts in biostatistics, epidemiology, and public health. The program typically combines coursework with research, culminating in a thesis or research project that addresses real-world health problems through applied statistical techniques.

Students enrolled in the program benefit from the university's strong connections with health care institutions, research centers, and government agencies, providing valuable opportunities for experiential learning and networking. The program fosters proficiency in statistical software such as R, SAS, and Stata, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for employment in academia, industry, government, or healthcare sectors. The University of Toronto’s distinguished reputation, extensive resources, and collaborative environment create a stimulating setting for students interested in advancing their expertise in biostatistics and contributing to improvements in public health outcomes.