Biostatistics Stellenbosch University

Overview

Upon completion of the Biostatistics programme at the Stellenbosch University, students shall have:

• developed a sound understanding of epidemiological study design and the theory and application of the major areas of biostatistics relevant to professional practice;
• acquired skills in complex statistical analyses to handle a variety of practical problems using modern statistical techniques and software;
• acquired skills in data collection and data management, including quality control procedures and the ethical handling of data;
• 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 analytical methodology;
• acquired the technical skills to be able to read methodological papers in the biostatistical literature and apply the methods described in those papers to practical problems;
• developed the practical and technical skills to commence professional careers as independent biostatisticians and/or to progress to further postgraduate research studies; and

• developed problem-solving abilities in biostatistics, characterised by flexibility of approach.

Quick Facts:

The objectives of the 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 students who aspire 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 students who can apply principles of statistical reasoning in addressing critical questions in public health and biomedical science; and
• educate and train individuals who are independent thinkers and lead the data management and statistical analyses of research studies to advance knowledge and guide policy.