Graduate Diploma in Biostatistics

The Graduate Diploma in Biostatistics provides advanced biostatistical training with a solid foundation in mathematics and probability for a diverse range of students.

Graduates acquire specialised knowledge and skills in the statistical methods used in health and medical investigations, with the necessary mathematical foundation to integrate sophisticated statistical understanding and specialised skills into their training.

On completion of the Graduate Diploma, graduates will have attained the required skills for employment as a biostatistician.Please note:

mid-year intake to this course is not available for international students.

Course structure

SIX core subjects and TWO electives (100 points)

Entry requirements

1. The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant’s ability to pursue successfully the course using the following criteria:

• A Bachelor degree in a relevant discipline, such as statistics, mathematics, biomedicine, psychology, science, pharmacy, health sciences, economics, from an approved university, with an average mark of at least H2B (70%) over the degree; and
• Successful completion (result of at least H3 or 65%) at tertiary level of at least one mathematics subject, including elements of multivariable calculus and linear algebra

2. The Selection Committee may conduct interviews or tests or call for referee reports or employer references to elucidate any of the matters listed above.

3. The Selection Committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Academic Board rules on the use of selection instruments.

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Description, Course Objectives and Generic Skills of this entry. The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this course, graduates will:

• be able to demonstrate a broad understanding of the mathematical background, theory and application of the principles of epidemiology and biostatistical methods in health and medical research
• have acquired skills in complex statistical analyses to handle a variety of practical problems using modern statistical techniques and software
• have acquired skills in data collection and data management, including database design, quality control procedures and the ethical handling of data
• have developed skills to identify the relevant statistical issues in practical problems in medical/health settings and to propose and implement an appropriate statistical design and/or analysis methodology
• have developed skills and demonstrated ability to present statistical results in a format suitable for publication in health-related journals or professional reports
• have acquired the technical skills to be able to read methodological papers in the biostatistical literature and apply the methods described therein to practical problems
• have developed the practical and technical skills to progress to further postgraduate studies in biostatistics
• be aware of professional codes of conduct and ethical standards such as those of the Statistical Society of Australia