Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Laboratory in Statistical Design and Analysis

Course Description

This unique course involves a weekly 2-hour lecture and a capstone project of four hours per week (eight hours for Summer-only projects). Lectures focus on design issues in term one and analysis issues in term two. The capstone project involves delving into one or more projects under the direct supervision of a Division of Biostatistics faculty-appointed  biostatistician. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of data and interpretation of results. Student evaluation is based on end-of-term presentations, progress in the capstone project, and an end-of-year final report.

Course Objectives

The goal of the lecture series is to introduce the student to common statistical design and analysis techniques encountered by the practicing biostatistician. The objective of the capstone project is to provide the student with hands-on experience with design and analysis issues encountered by applied statisticians in a real workforce setting. It also emphasizes the importance of good communication skills and other soft skills that are required by a biostatistician to be effective in today’s work environment.