The Masters consists of 12 units of study; comprising 10 or 11 coursework units of study plus a 1 or 2 unit Biostatistics Research/Practical Project/Thesis (WPP).

The BCA program was designed to be done part-time. At two units per semester, the Masters can be completed in three years.

Students may be waived the requirement to complete either Epidemiology (students coming from a background in health research), or one or more of the units Mathematical Background for Biostatistics, Probability and Distribution Theory, and Principles of Statistical Inference (students coming from a background in mathematics and/or statistics). This will leave room to complete elective units in addition to the compulsory Biostatistics Research/Practical Project/Thesis (WPP).

On completion of the Masters degree graduates will have attained the required skills for employment as a biostatistician.

Course Objectives

On completion of this course, students will:

1. Have developed a sound understanding of epidemiological study design and the theory and application of the major areas of biostatistics relevant to professional practice
2. Have acquired skills in complex statistical analyses to handle a variety of practical problems using modern statistical techniques and software
3. Have acquired skills in data collection and data management, including database design, quality control procedures and the ethical handling of data
4. 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
5. Have developed skills and had experience in communication of biostatistical issues with clinical/health personnel and the presentation of statistical results in a format suitable for publication in health-related journals or professional reports
6. 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
7. Have developed the practical and technical skills to commence professional careers as independent biostatisticians and/or to progress to further postgraduate research studies
8. Be able to demonstrate an understanding of professional codes of conduct and ethical standards such as those of the Statistical Society of Australia
9. Have developed problem solving abilities in biostatistics, characterised by flexibility of approach