Top undergraduate biostatistics programs?

Hello! I'm considering a major in biostatistics and I've seen some ranking lists, including US News. Can anyone recommend some solid programs or even any underrated biostatistics programs that may not make the top of the rankings? Thanks a lot!

Hi there! It's great to see you taking an interest in biostatistics. While rankings can be a helpful starting point, it's also important to consider a school's reputation, opportunities, and fit for you. Some highly-regarded undergraduate biostatistics programs include:

1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - UNC has a strong public health program overall, and their biostatistics department is particularly well-regarded.

2. University of Washington - Known for their solid statistics program, UW also has a bachelor's degree in biostatistics that combines the strengths of their statistics and public health departments.

3. University of California, Los Angeles - UCLA offers a Biostatistics major through its Fielding School of Public Health, which combines courses in statistical theories and public health applications.

4. University of Michigan - Michigan's School of Public Health offers an undergraduate major in biostatistics, which gives students access to top-notch faculty and research opportunities.

5. University of California, Berkeley - With a renowned public health department, UC Berkeley offers a biostatistics concentration within the Public Health major.

Apart from these schools, there are smaller, more specialized programs that might not make the top of the rankings but still offer excellent opportunities. One such option is the biostatistics program at Emory University, which is known for its strong public health focus. Alternatively, Johns Hopkins University, while not offering a specific biostatistics major, has a popular public health major with a focus on biostatistics.

Don't forget that you can also pursue biostatistics in grad school if you major in a related field like statistics or public health during your undergraduate years, so don't rule out a school up front just because it doesn't have a specific biostatistics major - it might still give you the preparation you're seeking! As you research and decide on schools, remember to also consider factors like location, faculty, available research opportunities, and broader campus culture, to ensure you end up at an institution where you'll thrive personally as well as academically. Good luck!