Biostatistics Graduate Certificate Admissions
Requirements for Admission to the Graduate Certificate Program
Plan ahead: We will accept applications from January 1st through April 30. We will send letters of acceptance (or regret) by May 15. We do not have rolling admissions and are only accepting applications for a Fall Term start date.
The Graduate Certificate in Biostatistics requires that the applicant have a bachelor's degree. The program also requires that one undergraduate course in statistics be completed prior to matriculation.
The test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of students for whom English is not their native language. An official report of the scores must be sent by the testing services to OHSU (Institution Code 4865).
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: Because our biostatistics education programs are new, we have not yet been approved to accept international students. We will update our website when the approval is processed. Until that time, we recommend that international students not apply to our program until we announce that we are approved to accept international students. Please contact OHSU's Office of International Services for detailed information about immigration advice and services to international students, employees, and visitors.
Certificate Application Process
Complete the online application and submit the following materials in one large envelope by April 30.
COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS: You must provide an official, sealed transcript for each college or university that you have attended. You will need to request that transcripts be mailed to you so you can include them in your application packet. Do not open the envelopes in which the transcripts are received. For our purposes, the transcripts are official only if the seal is not broken.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION: At least one letter of recommendation is required. Request recommendations from persons who have knowledge of your background and qualifications, particularly those related to your academic ability. Letter(s) of recommendation must be included in your application packet. If you are attending an institution which provides a committee evaluation report, this report will be accepted in lieu of individual letters. Letters must be in a sealed envelope with the letter writer's signature across the flap. The Letter of Reference Form must also be included.
PERSONAL STATEMENT: A one-page personal statement describing your career goals is to be entered into the online application.
SEND THE COMPLETED APPLICATION PACKET TO:
Oregon Health & Science University
Department of Public Health & Preventive Medicine
Mail Code: CB 669
Attention: Biostatistics Program Admission Committee
3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road
Portland, OR 97239
Frequently asked questions
Does the Graduate Certificate in Biostatistics program participate in Oregon Health & Science University’s employee tuition assistance program?
At this time, we do not participate in the employee tuition assistance program.
What are the tuition costs and fees for the program?
In-state residents: $350/credit plus fees
Out-of-state residents/international students: $450/credit plus fees
Please consult the tuition and fees information on the Registrar's website for detailed information: www.ohsu.edu/registrar
What does a typical course schedule look like?
Please click here for an example of a course schedule.
Is there funding available for biostatistics students? What kind of financial aid do you offer?
Individuals enrolled with the certificate program is eligible for financial aid as long as the student is enrolled in at least five credits in the term in which he or she is seeking aid. The department does not offer any scholarships for certificate students; however, a limited number of teaching assistantships may be available for students who have done exceptionally well in BSTA 511-513.
What steps do I need to take if I am interested in pursuing an MPH after I complete the biostatistics program?
Students in the biostatistics program will still need to apply directly to the MPH program. If you are interested in pursuing an MPH degree after completing the biostatistics certificate, it is your responsibility to let the biostatistics faculty know as soon as possible, as there is an overlap in the curriculum. For more information, please refer to the MPH Admissions page.
I am a foreign student interested in applying to your program. What are your program’s minimum requirements for the TOEFL?
Our guidelines are as follows:
Computer based: 213
Paper based: 550
Internet based: 87
How long does it take to complete your program?
On a part time schedule, the requirements for the program can feasibly be completed in about two years.
Does your program offer any online courses?
At this time, we do not offer any online courses.
Can you send me more information regarding the Biostatistics program?
In the interest of reducing our environmental impact, we have information online in the form(s) of a flyer, brochure, or PowerPoint presentation from our recent information sessions.
How strict is the department about the application deadline?
Very strict. If you find that uncontrollable factors (for example, a serious illness or hospitalization) thwart your ability to submit the application on time, please contact biostatprogram@ohsu.edu to request a brief extension.
With whom can I meet to talk about the program and the application procedure?
For more information about specific programs, you should contact a staff member from the program to which you hope to apply. If you have questions about the application procedure, please email biostatprogram@ohsu.edu or our Education Assistant, Natalie Chin at chinn@ohsu.edu.
