Master of Biostatistics

The Master of Biostatistics provides advanced biostatistical training with a solid foundation in mathematics and probability for a diverse range of students. Graduates acquire specialised knowledge and skills in the statistical methods used in health and medical investigations, with the necessary mathematical foundation to integrate sophisticated statistical understanding and specialised skills into their training. On completion of the Masters degree, graduates will have had the opportunity to complete a research-based project under expert biostatistical supervision and will attain the required skills for employment as a professional biostatistician or for continuing to a research higher degree.

Please note: mid-year intake to this course is not available for international students.

On completion of the Master of Biostatistics, graduates will:

• have developed a sound understanding of epidemiological study design and the theory and application of the major areas of biostatistics relevant to professional practice
• have acquired skills in complex statistical analyses to handle a variety of practical problems using modern statistical techniques and software
• have acquired skills in data collection and data management, including database design, quality control procedures and the ethical handling of data
• have developed skills to identify the relevant statistical issues in practical problems in medical/health settings and to propose and implement an appropriate statistical design and/or analysis methodology
• have developed skills and had experience in communication of biostatistical issues with clinical/health personnel and the presentation of statistical results in a format suitable for publication in health-related journals or professional reports
• have acquired the technical skills to be able to read methodological papers in the biostatistical literature and apply the methods described therein to practical problems
• have developed the practical and technical skills to commence professional careers as independent biostatisticians and/or to progress to further postgraduate research studies
• be able to demonstrate an understanding of professional codes of conduct and ethical standards such as those of the Statistical Society of Australia
• have developed problem solving abilities in biostatistics, characterised by flexibility of approach

Students must choose between Option One or Option Two:

Option One:

SIX core subjects, FOUR elective subjects, the Capstone Selective subject POPH90122 Survival Analysis and a 12.5 point Research Project

Option Two:

SIX core subjects, FOUR electives subjects and a 25 point Research Project

Core Subjects

Students must complete the following core subjects:

Electives

Students must select FOUR electives from the following list:

Capstone

There are 2 capstone options to choose from. The capstone experience should be undertaken in the final year or final semester of the Master of Biostatistics.

OPTION ONE:

Students may take a 25 point Work Place Project. Students have the option of enrolling in a year-long project or a semester-long project. Students enrolling in the year-long project MUST complete the project in two semesters consecutively.

OPTION TWO:

Students who choose this option must enrol in the following Research Project plus the capstone selective subject POPH90122 Survival Analysis

1. The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant’s ability to pursue successfully the course using the following criteria:

• A Bachelor degree in a relevant discipline, such as statistics, mathematics, biomedicine, psychology, science, pharmacy, health sciences, economics, from an approved university, with an average mark of at least H2B (70%) over the degree; and
• Successful completion (result of at least H3 or 65%) at tertiary level of at least one mathematics subject, including elements of multivariable calculus and linear algebra.

2. The Selection Committee may conduct interviews or tests or call for referee reports or employer references to elucidate any of the matters listed above.

3. The Selection Committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Academic Board rules on the use of selection instruments.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Description, Course Objectives and Generic Skills of this entry.
The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website.

The Melbourne Experience enables our graduates to become:

Academically excellent:

• have a strong sense of intellectual integrity and the ethics of scholarship
• have in-depth knowledge of their specialist discipline(s)
• reach a high level of achievement in writing, generic research activities, problem-solving and communication
• be critical and creative thinkers, with an aptitude for continued self-directed learning
• be adept at learning in a range of ways, including through information and communication technologies

Knowledgeable across disciplines:

• examine critically, synthesise and evaluate knowledge across a broad range of disciplines
• expand their analytical and cognitive skills through learning experiences in diverse subjects
• have the capacity to participate fully in collaborative learning and to confront unfamiliar problems
• have a set of flexible and transferable skills for different types of employment

Leaders in communities:

• initiate and implement constructive change in their communities, including professions and workplaces
• have excellent interpersonal and decision-making skills, including an awareness of personal strengths and limitations
• mentor future generations of learners
• engage in meaningful public discourse, with a profound awareness of community needs

Attuned to cultural diversity:

• value different cultures
• be well-informed citizens able to contribute to their communities wherever they choose to live and work
• have an understanding of the social and cultural diversity in our community
• respect indigenous knowledge, cultures and values

Active global citizens:

• accept social and civic responsibilities
• be advocates for improving the sustainability of the environment
• have a broad global understanding, with a high regard for human rights, equity and ethics

Refer to Course Objectives.