Biostatistics is where data and statistical analysis come together to tackle global health challenges.
How quickly do infectious diseases spread? How do new treatments improve survival rates? Biostatisticians crunch the numbers to find the answers. If you’re intrigued by health and medical science and have an aptitude for maths, our Master of Biostatistics will give you a competitive edge in a rapidly growing sector.
Use your expertise to collect, analyse and interpret data. Advance medical research. Drive real-world health outcomes and improve lives through evidence-based solutions.
Delivered in partnership with the Biostatistics Collaboration of Australia (BCA), this degree builds the expertise needed for professional practice in biostatistics.
Throughout the Master of Biostatistics program, you’ll sharpen your problem-solving, decision-making and mathematical skills. You’ll study population health, gaining essential tools for epidemiological research. You’ll master the mathematical and statistical methods required for biostatistical analysis, and investigate machine learning techniques to analyse large and complex health data. Ethical considerations in health data analysis and research are also a key focus.
While most classes are delivered online, a practical biostatistical project will give you hands-on experience in a real workplace setting.
Guided by leading biostatisticians and educators from across Australia, you’ll graduate ready for a career in medical and epidemiological research, the pharmaceutical industry or government agencies.
Join an in-demand field ranked in the top 25 emerging occupations. Enjoy flexible online study options to help balance work and other commitments. Learn from leading teachers and biostatisticians Australia-wide. Gain a deep understanding of statistical theory and methods for health-related research. Apply your learning to real world challenges in professional practice. Build your employability and career skills through workplace research. The Master of Biostatistics is designed to be completed part-time over three years of study, making it ideal for working professionals. The curriculum is primarily delivered online, with the exception of a final practical project.
You’ll build a strong foundation in biostatistics with courses covering:
Alongside core courses, you can choose up to four elective units to deepen your expertise in specific areas. You’ll also have the chance to complete practical projects, applying your skills to real-world challenges in relevant workplaces or organisations.
Learn to design epidemiological studies and clinical trials. Apply mathematical theories and modelling to reach evidence-based solutions. Develop research questions and design and implement strategies to answer them.
Become a master data analyst, using best practice techniques and approaches to ensure transparency and reproducibility of results. Develop the communication and presentation skills to confidently share your findings in presentations, reports and journals. Explore ethics and how to handle sensitive data appropriately and professionally.
Complete 72 units comprising:
Complete 48 units comprising:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Epidemiology
|
Course code
BIOL5024
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Data Management and Statistical Computing
|
Course code
BIOL5027
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mathematical Foundations for Biostatistics
|
Course code
BIOL5034
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Principles of Statistical Inference
|
Course code
BIOL5029
|
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
Biostatistics Research Project A
|
Course code
BIOL6036
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biostatistics Research Project B
|
Course code
BIOL6037
|
Units
6
|
Complete 24 units comprising:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Infectious Disease Epidemiology
|
Course code
PUBH5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Public Health Evaluation and Economics
|
Course code
PUBH5015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Technology Assessment
|
Course code
PUBH5022
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Design of Randomised Controlled Trials
|
Course code
BIOL5028
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Longitudinal & Correlated Data
|
Course code
BIOL5030
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bayesian Statistical Methods
|
Course code
BIOL5031
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Indicators & Health Surveys
|
Course code
BIOL5032
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Biostatistics
|
Course code
BIOL5033
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Machine Learning Algorithms
|
Course code
ARTI6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Statistical Genomics
|
Course code
STAT5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Causal Inference
|
Course code
STAT6015
|
Units
6
|
Upon completion of the degree, you’ll be eligible to become accredited by the Statistical Society of Australia as a biostatistician to provide specialist advice in health-related research or health services. You might work for a pharmaceutical company, identifying new opportunities for innovative medical products. You could undertake epidemiological research, advising government departments to develop data-based policies. Perhaps you’ll help design and execute world-changing clinical trials.
Potential jobs include:
You’ll also be well prepared for further study including PhD and other higher degree by research programs.
As healthcare becomes more data-driven, the demand for biostatisticians is increasing rapidly. The rise of big data, machine learning and artificial intelligence is also having an impact on job growth, placing biostatisticians among the top 25 emerging professions (National Skills Commission, 2023).
Beyond healthcare, biostatistical skills and the ability to analyse complex datasets are also highly valued in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, psychology and policy development. With a Master of Biostatistics from Adelaide University, you’ll have the versatile expertise to make an impact across a range of scientific and societal challenges in multiple sectors.
This program is accredited by the Statistical Society of Australia (SSA).
Graduates are eligible for membership of the SSA and to apply for accreditation as a Graduate Statistician.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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:
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.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
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.
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:
