Master of Science in Biostatistics
The objectives of the Master of Science in Biostatistics programme are to:
• develop highly qualified and skilled biostatisticians with the technical competence to contribute significantly to addressing the public health problems and challenges of their communities;
• prepare you, if you are aspiring to move to a higher level of academic research work, for doctoral studies and to promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics;
• contribute to the pool of academics and professionals with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure advancement in the field of biostatistics and to fulfil the need in the country for a skilled scientific workforce of the highest calibre;
• prepare you to apply principles of statistical reasoning in addressing critical questions in public health and biomedical science; and
• educate and train you to be an independent thinker and lead the data management and statistical analyses of research studies to advance knowledge and guide policy.
Kontakbesonderhede
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Wanneer jy aansoek doen
Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the programme.
Minimum toelatingsvereistes
Specific admission requirements
The MSc in Biostatistics programme targets students with either mathematical/statistical or biomedical background.
The following specific admission requirements are applicable;
• The National Senior Certificate with Mathematics (or equivalent) and one of the following at NQF level 8:
o an honours degree in Mathematics or Statistics or Biostatistics;
o an honours degree in a field related to the Biomedical Sciences;
o a medical degree (MBChB); or
o any other qualification deemed adequate by Senate.
• Depending on your field of study, additional work and/or proof of competency may be required.
Selection criteria
Specific selection criteria include an average mark of at least 65% for the last qualification obtained. You must also show competence in Linear Algebra and Calculus by completing a short bridging course and passing with a minimum mark of 65%. If you obtain a mark higher than 65% for this short course, it is more likely that you will be selected for this programme.
Supporting application documents
Curriculum vitae (CV)
A document that outlines your educational level, employment history, description of work experience, especially that is relevant to your application to study and contact details of three referees.
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Curriculum vitae (CV)
Motivational letter
One-page document explaining what factors are motivating you to apply for the specific programme(s) and describing what makes you a suitable candidate.
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Motivational letter / Essay
Final school-leaving results
Certificate awarded upon completion of High School displaying the percentage or grade symbol awarded for each subject passed
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Final school-leaving results
Programstruktuur
Programme content
Compulsory modules
Analysis of Observational Data: Causal Inference 875(12)
Analysis of Survival Data 875(12)
Biostatistical Consulting 875(12)
Categorical Data Analysis and Generalised Linear Models 875(12)
Data Management and Statistical Computing 875(6)
Fundamentals of Epidemiology 876(6)
Linear Models 875(6)
Longitudinal Data Analysis 875(12)
Mathematical Statistics 875(6)
Research Assignment 875(60)
Principles of Statistical Inference 875(12)
Elective modules
Please note: An elective module will only be offered if a minimum of five students have enrolled for the module.
Choose two of the following modules.
Bayesian Data Analysis 875(12)
Clinical Biostatistics 875(12)
Design and Analysis of Clinical Trials 875(12)
Multivariate Statistics 875(12)
Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis 875(12)
Assessment and examination
• Flexible assessment occurs throughout the study period.
• You must obtain a class mark of at least 50% in each module to qualify for the examination in the module. The class mark and the examination mark will each contribute 50% towards the final mark for the module. A final mark of 50% must be achieved in each module.
• You will only be permitted to begin with the practical assignment on satisfactory completion of the compulsory and elective modules. The practical assignment should demonstrate biostatistical expertise in the design and analysis of biomedical or methodological studies and be submitted in the format of a publishable paper for a relevant biostatistical journal. A mark of at least 50% must be achieved for the assignment.
• The final mark for the MSc in Biostatistics degree will be a weighted average of the marks for the individual modules and the assignment.