Certificate Description
The Biostatistics in Public Health Graduate Certificate offers focused training in quantitative data management and statistical analysis used in public health research and practice. Through a streamlined three‑course curriculum, learners develop practical, in‑demand skills for working with health data across settings such as public health practice, surveillance, and research.
This certificate provides specialized training in a critical and growing area of public health. It is designed for current public health professionals seeking to strengthen their quantitative skill set, as well as students and practitioners in related fields—including social work, nutrition, medicine, and other health disciplines—who want to add biostatistical expertise to their professional toolkit.
Quick Facts
- Complete Cost: $6,948
- Completion Length: 8 to 24 months
- Start Dates: January or August
- Credit Hours: 12
- Credential Type: Graduate Certificate
What students will learn in class can be applied directly to real-world public health settings, including the ability to:
- Follow best practices for reproducible research to manage, clean, and visualize quantitative data using statistical software
- Select, justify, and apply appropriate statistical methods for analyzing individual‑ and population‑level health data
- Implement statistical analyses to answer public health research and practice questions
- Interpret and communicate statistical findings clearly to diverse audiences
- Critically evaluate quantitative research and data sources to support evidence‑based decision‑making
Course Details
The Biostatistics in Public Health Graduate Certificate is 12 credit hours and comprised of three courses structured in 8-week sessions. This certificate can be completed in as little as 8 months.
To complete the certificate, students will take:
- HK 513: Introduction to Quantitative Data Management for Public Heath (4 Credit Hours)
- HK 527: Biostatistics in Public Health (4 Credit Hours)
- HK 531: Advanced Biostatistics (4 Credit Hours)
Courses are available at different times during the academic year. View current course offerings.
How to Apply
To apply for a graduate certificate program, start an online application through the Illinois Graduate College.
The following items are required for an application:
- Bachelor’s degree: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Applicants may be asked to submit an official copy if offered admission.
- Professional resume: This should include personal information (name, address, telephone number, and email address), educational background, experience (start and end dates for each position and a brief description of responsibilities), educational training, professional associations, and leadership experiences. Please limit resumes to two pages.
- Personal Statement: A statement addressing 1) why you are interested in pursuing the graduate certificate in which you are applying and 2) how will this certificate benefit or advance your career?
- English proficiency scores (international students only): Non-native English speakers will need to upload TOEFL or IELTS scores directly to their application. Review the Graduate College’s English proficiency requirements for more details on possible exemptions.
Admissions Deadlines
For full consideration, completed applications should be submitted by:
- November 15th (January start)
- July 15th (August start)
Building Toward a Master’s Degree
Students interested in continuing their graduate education may be able to apply credits earned through this graduate certificate toward select Master of Public Health (MPH) degree options. The number of applicable credit hours varies by program and concentration:
- MPH, Public Health with a concentration in Physical Activity and Health: all 12 credit hours from this certificate apply
- MPH, Public Health with a concentration in Health Behavior and Promotion: 4 credit hours from this certificate apply
- MPH, Epidemiology: all 12 credit hours from this certificate apply