Upcoming Priority Deadline for Graduate Programs in Biostatistics, Climate and Health, and Prevention Science and Community Health at the Department of Public Health Sciences

The priority deadline for various Master of Science (M.S.) programs in public health at the University of Miami (UM) Miller School of Medicine's Department of Public Health Sciences is March 1, 2020. These programs, all accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health, include the:

• M.S. in Biostatistics
• M.S. in Climate and Health 
• M.S. in Prevention Science and Community Health  

Scholarships are available and a separate application is not required. The department also offers opportunities for students to work as part-time graduate, research, and teaching assistants.

The M.S. in Biostatistics, an applied one-year program, is intended for quantitative students who are seeking training in applied biostatistics. The 33-credit program emphasizes applications and understanding of statistical concepts rather than theoretical and mathematical principles.

The program consists of courses in introductory probability, biostatistics, introductory epidemiology and public health, computing, clinical trials, introductory survival analysis, and introductory mathematical statistics. Students acquire the necessary foundation for applying biostatistical practices in real-world settings and gain practical skills that can be applied immediately to a variety of data settings. These include, but are not limited to, the biological life sciences, public health, medical studies, and health services research. Enrichment is provided by a statistical practicum and a seminar course. 

Prospective students interested in the new M.S. in Climate and Health program, which was launched by the Department of Public Health Sciences, in partnership with UM’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, can apply to enroll in the fall 2020 cohort. 

The goal of the two-year program is to train future generations of professionals, research analysts, planners, decision-makers, and leaders to address the intricate relationship between human health and climate, climate change and weather patterns, and weather anomalies. Students have opportunities to pursue research with interdisciplinary faculty members from five colleges and research fellowships are also available. 

The M.S. in Prevention Science and Community Health, a 33-credit program, prepares students to develop skills in translating prevention research into demonstrable prevention action, as well as to partner with communities and organizations for the implementation of evidence-based preventive interventions with fidelity and sensibility to the diversity and unique strengths of communities.

The focus of this program is in line with the seven priority areas of the U.S. National Prevention Strategy as implemented through the Strategy's strategic directions of creating healthy and safe communities, eliminating health disparities, providing clinical and community prevention services, and empowering people. These seven priority areas include tobacco-free living, preventing drug abuse and excessive alcohol use, healthy eating, active living, injury and violence-free living, reproductive and sexual health, and mental/emotional well-being.

For inquiries about admissions or the scholarship program, contact Ms. Andria Williams, M.B.A., director of admissions, at (305) 243-0291 or alw157@med.miami.edu, or Ms. Ginelle Bou Nassar, M.P.A., senior program coordinator for admissions, at (305) 243-7246 or gxb557@med.miami.edu.

Learn more about the requirements to apply on SOPHAS and/or on the Department of Public Health Sciences’ website.

Written by Amanda Torres

Published on February 6, 2020