Why Graduate Certificate in Biostatistics?
Do you have a knack for numbers? Fascinated by statistics and health science?
Biostatisticians collect, interrogate, interpret and communicate data. They provide the niche skills needed to draw useful conclusions from health-related research.
Gain specialised knowledge in a short amount of time. Build technical skills for complex data analysis. Secure a competitive edge in your career. Learn the biostatistics basics without the long-term commitment. Upskill so you can contribute to cutting-edge medical research – from genetic studies to drug development.
Overview
Offered in partnership with the Biostatistics Collaboration of Australia (BCA), our Graduate Certificate in Biostatistics is a fully online program designed to fit seamlessly into the lives of busy professionals. Just four units long, it can be completed in as little as six months full-time.
Learn from leading teachers and biostatisticians. Build a foundation in statistical theory and methods. Explore ethical considerations in health data analysis and research. Apply your learning to real-world problems in professional practice.
You’ll graduate with a sound understanding of the principles of epidemiology and some aspects of biostatistics. You’ll be better equipped for roles in medical research, epidemiology, health data science and the pharmaceutical industry.
This certificate also provides a solid grounding for further studies through our Graduate Diploma or Master of Biostatistics, or in more general public health degrees.
Key features
Upskill in biostatistics, a top 25 emerging occupation. - Build a foundation in statistical theory and methods.
- Learn from leading teachers and biostatisticians Australia-wide.
- Apply your learning to real problems through professional practice.
- Benefit from an online curriculum and flexible study options.
- Gain specialised, in-demand skills in just six months.
What you'll learn
Our Graduate Certificate in Biostatistics is designed to fit around the busy schedules of working professionals, with a curriculum delivered entirely online.
Your studies will include project work, written assignments and practical work, with opportunities to apply your learning to real problems in professional practice.
Your studies will begin with a compulsory epidemiology course, providing a solid foundation in the concepts and tools used to investigate, understand and control health problems in populations.
Build the skills to judge the quality of evidence in health-related research literature. Explore the different types of study design, from case studies and cross-sectional surveys to randomised controlled trials. Recognise and explain key sources of error in research, including chance, bias and confounding. Familiarise yourself with the concepts of association and causality. Learn how to critically evaluate published papers.
Along with your core learning on epidemiology, you’ll also choose three electives aligned to your interests and career goals. You can choose from:
- Mathematical foundations for biostatistics
- Data management and statistical computing
- Principles of statistical inference
- Design of randomised controlled trials
- Regression modelling 1
- Regression modelling 2
- Statistical genomics
- Longitudinal and correlated data
- Bayesian statistical methods
- Machine learning in biostatistics
- Causal inference
- Health indicators and health surveys
- Clinical biostatistics.
This six-month program is part of a nested degree suite. It provides foundational knowledge and credits that are transferable towards a Graduate Diploma or Master of Biostatistics.
What courses you'll study
Complete 24 units comprising:
- 6 units for Core courses, and
- 18 units for Electives
Complete 6 units comprising:
- 6 units for all Program core
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Epidemiology
|
Course code
BIOL5024
|
Units
6
|
Complete 18 units comprising:
- 18 units from Program electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Data Management and Statistical Computing
|
Course code
BIOL5027
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Design of Randomised Controlled Trials
|
Course code
BIOL5028
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Principles of Statistical Inference
|
Course code
BIOL5029
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Longitudinal & Correlated Data
|
Course code
BIOL5030
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Indicators & Health Surveys
|
Course code
BIOL5032
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Biostatistics
|
Course code
BIOL5033
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mathematical Foundations for Biostatistics
|
Course code
BIOL5034
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Regression Modelling for Biostatistics I
|
Course code
BIOL5035
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Regression Modelling for Biostatistics II
|
Course code
BIOL6038
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Causal Inference (UoA)
|
Course code
STAT5017
|
Units
6
|
Notes
Program electives - Please note that some electives may be offered in either semester 1 or semester 2.
Career outcomes
This qualification will allow you to pursue specialist roles in health-related research and health services. Biostatistical expertise is in very high demand across many areas, with possible roles in:
- Medical and epidemiological research
- The pharmaceutical industry
- Government departments and agencies.
You could work in public health surveillance. You might join a pharmaceutical company as a clinical trial analyst, helping assess the efficacy of new drugs. Perhaps you’ll be a research assistant in a biotech company, investigating genetic factors in diseases.
Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:
- Biomedical scientist
- Biotechnologist
- Statistician
- Medical researcher.
You can also continue straight into the Graduate Diploma or Master of Biostatistics, using your credits to fast-track your studies.
Industry trends
The demand for biostatisticians is on the rise. In fact, it is among the top 25 emerging occupations (National Skills Commission, 2023). This growth is driven by advancements in healthcare technology, the expansion of big data in medical research and an increased focus on precision medicine and public health informatics.
These trends highlight the crucial role of biostatistics in addressing modern healthcare challenges and point to strong career prospects for professionals in this field.
With a Graduate Certificate in Biostatistics from Adelaide University, you’ll gain the skills needed to work on projects in the field. We focus on practical applications and relevant statistical methods, preparing you to meet industry demands effectively – and immediately.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
