Biostatistics

120 ECTS - MS degree

. . .

Are you interested in statistics, data analysis and risk assessment?

Would you like practical training in the use of statistics in population-based studies?

Apply

Studies

About the programme

Admission requirements

Application materials

Course catalogue

Academic calendar

Credit system and grades

For students

Information for new students

University's International Office

Prospective exchange students

Student Counselling and Career Centre

Want to know more?

Career options

Research and publications

Other studies at the Centre of Public Health Sciences

Staff and administration

Rules and regulations

About the programme

The programme provides practical knowledge of how statistics are used in research in the fields of biology, genetics, public health, and health sciences.

Emphasis is on a solid training in the use of statistics in population-based studies as well as a strong general foundation in statistics and data processing.

Mode of study

Cross- departmental electives and an independent research thesis enables students to shape their study plan around their area of interest.

Students have the option of exchange studies for part of the program.

We aim to accommodate the programme to international students as possible, but language of instruction in some courses might is Icelandic.

Further information: Course Catalogue

Admission requirements

Graduate studies

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree (BS, BA, or comparable) from an accredited college/university. A specific field of study is not required, but our students are expected to have a solid background in methodology and completed a courses in mathematical analysis, linear algebra, and probability and statistics. International applicants for whom English is not their first language must submit a TOEFL or IELTS score as proof of English proficiency. Minimum scores accepted are 79 on the TOEFL internet based test or a IELTS score of 6,5. Applicants are evaluated for entrance based on the following criteria:

Grade point average (in general a GPA equivalent to the Icelandic 7,25 (first) is a prerequisite for admissions).
Performance in specific courses, such as methodology and statistics.
Statement of purpose and objectives.

Further information in the Course Catalogue

See what it is all about

Students' comments

Heiðrún Hlöðversdóttir

Public health sciences student

I was especially drawn to the multi-disciplinary approach of the public health sciences studies. My background in psychology was useful as the master's program is, to some extent, built on the foundation of scientifical methodology and statistics.''

''The studies have given me an invaluable insight into the careers of different health-related occupations, whether it's through my teachers or fellow students with different educational backgrounds and experiences.''

''One of the best qualities of the programme is being able to choose from a multitude of different courses, crafting your course path based on your personal interests.

—

Hjördís Lilja Lorange

Public health sciences student

The public health sciences programme has been an extraordinary experience where I've dealt with many exciting challenges. In my studies I've adopted critical thinking and learned techniques to systematically approach scientific topics. The well-organized courses give you a chance to dive into various public health subjects, like the most current threats to public health today.

I couldn't be more pleased with the excellent professors who all have profound knowledge of the topics and pass on their knowledge in a both entertaining and exciting manner.

The knowledge and experience I gained from the master's programme exceeded far beyond my hopes and I've benefitted immensily from my studies.

—

Friðgeir Andri Sverrisson

Public health sciences

One of the main reasons I chose the master's programme in public health sciences was the flexibility in selecting a broad range of classes from different subject areas.

The programme has strong foundations and a good core but also attracts individuals with different backgrounds, which promotes the possibility of cooperation all across society. After i finished my studies and embarked on the job market, I found this to be the case as my experience in the programme was instrumental to my job search.

The freedom to choose from an array of diverse courses ensured my highest satisfaction and increased skills in the areas I wanted to master, especially in relation to further learning and working abroad.

—

Mynd að ofan

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Career options

Biostatisticians are in demand for a diversity of jobs related to interpreting population-based research as well as data- and risk analysis, in both the private and public sector.

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Examples of professions:

Research
Data risk analysis
Education
Project management and policy making

Contact us

Centre of Public Health Sciences
Sturlugata 8, 102 Reykjavik
Tel: 525 4956
E-mail: publichealth@hi.is

Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 10am-16pm and Fridays 10am-12pm.

Please call or write ahead to book an appointment.

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