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Combined Degree: Statistics B.S. and Biostatistics, M.S.

Grand Valley State University combined degree programs offer current qualified undergraduate students the opportunity to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree, meeting personal, academic, and career goals. A combined degree can reduce the cost and total time required to complete both.

Visit the program website for more information.

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Program Overview

Qualified undergraduate statistics students may be admitted to the program and obtain a B.S. in statistics and an M.S. in biostatistics within the accelerated time frame. The requirements for applying to the combined degree program:

  • At least 65 hours of undergraduate academic credit have been completed or is in progress.
  • A cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 at the time of application.
  • Completion of the following courses with at least B in each: STA 215 (or STA 312), STA 216, at least one of STA 310, STA 321, STA 315.
  • Two letters of recommendation.
  • Resume and letter of intent.

Why Pursue a Combined Degree at Grand Valley?

  • Master's level biostatisticians are in demand, which means higher starting salaries within exciting scientific work environments.
  • Partners such as Priority Health and Spectrum Health provide formal support for internships and continuing assistance to GVSU students.
  • Accelerate your career trajectory and complete your degrees one step ahead of the competition.
  • Respond to emerging job markets.
  • Meet the growing national need for more master's trained employees.
  • Program emphasizes current statistical techniques using prominent statistical software.

Career Insights

This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.

Location & Format

All undergraduate students begin their academic career at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus; classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.

Format:
  • Face To Face

Coursework

Students may choose four courses to dual-count toward the B.S. and M.S. degrees, up to 12 credit hours total. Students are encouraged to work with the graduate program director and their advisor to ensure all requirements are met.

  • STA 518 or STA 526
  • CIS 661
  • STA 628
  • CMB 610
  • PSM 650

Registration for 600-level courses is to occur only after acceptance into the combined degree program.

Admission Requirements

Students apply for the combined degree program during their third academic year. Visit the online catalog for information about admission requirements for the combined bachelor of science in statistics and master of science in biostatistics. 

For More Information

Department of Statistics

Dr. Robert Downer
[email protected]
A-1-178 Mackinac Hall
(616) 331-3355
lkgear.com/stat

Graduate Admissions and Recruitment Office

lkgear.com/gradapply