Frequently Asked Questions About the Master of Biostatistics Program

This program is designed for students passionate about biomedical research and interested in how data can lead to discoveries, guide decisions, and improve health outcomes. Whether your background is in biology, public health, math, or another field, if you're eager to build strong analytical skills and apply them to real-world biomedical questions, this program provides the foundation and flexibility to support your aspirations. 

No, although this is quite helpful. Many of our students have some basic knowledge of coding from their undergraduate studies and find that our more structured instruction, including concepts of algorithms and data structures, enhances their understanding and helps them develop a more refined skill set.  

No.  We do not reject applications based on a specific GPA cut-off value.  Of course, excellent grades are preferred.  

The Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics is part of Duke's School of Medicine. The Department of Statistical Sciences is part of Duke's College of Arts and Sciences. The master's and PhD degrees offered by the Department of Statistical Sciences are general statistical degrees, not specialized in biology or medicine, and focus on training in Bayesian statistics.     

Our program intentionally remains neutral regarding any specific statistical philosophy. Students learn about both frequentist and Bayesian methods, along with approaches that combine aspects of each. Instead of favoring one framework, we focus on understanding the assumptions, strengths, and limitations of various methods within their context, enabling our graduates to select the most suitable tools for their scientific questions.    

Yes, you can take classes outside of the department. There are many approved courses from Biology, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Environmental Health, Global Health, and Statistical Sciences that you can take for credit toward your degree. Advisor or director approval is required to enroll in courses outside of the department. 

Yes, this degree is considered a STEM degree for students on an F-1 visa. Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation also includes the 2-year STEM extension, so you will be eligible to work in the United States for 36 months after graduation.  

Yes, there are several ways to gain experience and earn money. Most students work on one or more research projects at Duke while enrolled in the MB program. Paid, on-campus work opportunities are available, and students are also eligible to apply for paid teaching assistant (TA) positions within the program in their second year. Many MB students participate in summer internships outside of Duke between their first and second years. Due to the demanding nature of coursework, students are limited to 20 hours of part-time or research work per week when classes are in session. 

Durham is a wonderful place to study and live. Also known as the City of Medicine, Durham is a hub for higher education. Duke University and North Carolina Central University are located in Durham. In surrounding counties, two large universities, North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, along with many smaller colleges and universities, thrive.

Durham consistently receives awards for being one of the best places to live in NC — ranked #6 nationwide, #22 for best places to retire, #10 for best-run city in the US, #2 for life sciences talent, #3 for career opportunities, #2 for smallest gender wage gap, and among the top 5 cities for artists. Durham is home to the Durham Bulls, a renowned minor-league baseball team; the Durham Performing Arts Center, a vibrant hub of the arts; and the Museum of Life and Science, which offers a family-friendly experience.

The Duke campus hosts many wonderful events and attractions. Duke University's chapel is breathtaking, the Sarah P. Duke Gardens are beautiful year-round, and the Nasher Museum of Art features exciting exhibits.

Durham is located near the center of North Carolina, providing access to beaches and mountains within a three-hour drive. Hiking is a popular activity among residents of Durham and surrounding areas. The city also boasts an international food scene with numerous excellent restaurants catering to diverse tastes.

Although Duke and Durham are fantastic places to study and live, the cost of living remains very affordable.

Visit Duke In Durham for more information about living in Durham. 

If you're interested in applying statistics to improve human health and want a flexible curriculum to advance your career, along with a supportive culture and a rigorous program dedicated to your success, then Duke could be the right place for you.  

A master's degree in biostatistics opens the door to many career opportunities at the intersection of data and health. Our graduates work in academic medical centers, public health departments, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, clinical research organizations, health tech startups, and government agencies like the CDC and FDA.

Alumni contribute to designing and analyzing clinical trials, developing statistical methods, supporting public health surveillance, working with large-scale observational data, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to address urgent health issues. Some graduates focus on careers in data science, machine learning, or AI in health, while others pursue PhD programs in biostatistics or related fields.

Biostatistics offers a flexible and fulfilling career path for those eager to use data to improve human health. A master's degree provides the skills and experience needed to make an immediate impact.  

Wellness and student support are key to the Duke Master of Biostatistics experience. The program prides itself on offering personalized wellness coaching through Kendall Mincey, a nationally certified health and wellness coach who also serves as the program’s senior program coordinator.

Visit the Student Support page for more information. 

The Duke Master of Biostatistics program values its welcoming atmosphere. Students and faculty support each other through encouragement, teamwork, and a shared dedication to academic and professional development. Master of Biostatistics students are part of a tight-knit learning community, where they not only forge strong bonds within their cohort but also interact with students from other programs in the department, including doctoral students, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and a wider academic outlook. Additionally, students have the chance to take courses alongside peers from across Duke University, including those in Engineering, Computer Science, and Statistical Science, enriching their learning and expanding their professional networks.  

The Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics is a large department, comprising over 69 faculty members and 56 research staff who work closely with our students.  

Generally, the program has just over 100 students.

The Duke Master’s in Biostatistics program is part of a top-ranked School of Medicine, giving students unique advantages:

• Immersive Learning Environment
  Study where biomedical research, clinical care, and public health intersect, providing real-world context from day one.

• Expert Faculty & Cutting-Edge Research
  Our Biostatistics and Bioinformatics faculty are active in interdisciplinary teams tackling critical health challenges like cancer, infectious diseases, and precision medicine. Students gain hands-on experience with projects using real-world data, EHR data, and medical systems data.

• Capstone & Collaboration Opportunities
  Work directly with faculty and clinicians on impactful research through capstone projects and collaborations.

• Professional Networking
  Being embedded in a medical school opens doors to connections with researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders, leading to careers in academic medicine, industry, or government.

• Advancing Health Through Statistics
  Develop a deep understanding of how biostatistics drives innovation in healthcare.

Average Apartment Rent

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Keep in mind these costs are estimated averages, and actual rental prices can vary by several hundred dollars, either higher or lower. Rent costs can also be lowered by sharing with a roommate.