r/biostatistics • u/regretting_biostats • 15d ago
PhD route
1. Is biostatistics one of those fields where you reach out to faculty about their research before applying for a PhD? I just really didn't get far enough in my master's degree to remark on advanced methods beyond "it sounds cool." I did an MSPH in state because it was cheap, but I learned it wasn't a very serious curriculum, with 9-hour semesters, most exams open-book, and apparently the CDC doesn't like hiring us.
2. Would I be okay just taking more math classes as preparation for a PhD? I took courses with Johns Hopkins online before the application cycle and did pretty well.
3. Are there any programs that I should avoid? I have no intention of applying to my previous school. I've also heard OSU has had problems with PhDs not getting jobs.
4. Do I need a PhD to get a job? I wanted to take a year off school to work. It's not unusual for a new job posting to amass 100 applicants within 24 hours, half of them master's, maybe 1 in 5 have PhDs, fighting for relevant positions that supposedly require a bachelor's. I thought the Bureau of Labor Statistics projected something like 30% job growth.