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Biostatistics Graduate Program

Life and Community

The Department of Biostatistics

The Department of Biostatistics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center offers biostatistics, bioinformatics, and data management expertise to a wide array of research initiatives, with an emphasis on long-term collaborative relationships with physician-scientists and other investigators in advancing biomedical knowledge and personalized health. Our faculty and staff work closely and extensively with biomedical research personnel around the world to develop novel statistical and bioinformatic methods and tools and to address complex questions with reproducible research and rigorous analysis. Our graduate program trains flexible thinkers to become leaders in academia, industry, and government.

“I wanted to study in a place full of great people doing great research; I found that and more with Vanderbilt Biostatistics. I learned the keys to successful methodological and collaborative work, and I built lasting relationships with both my classmates and professors. This department helped me establish a framework for academic success, first as a student and now as a faculty member.” Sarah Lotspeich, PhD 2021, Assistant Professor, Statistical Sciences, Biostatistics and Data Science, Wake Forest University, David P. Bear Early Career Award winner, 2023

"At Vanderbilt University, I gained valuable experience in all aspects of biostatistics, including designing and conducting real-world biomedical studies, cleaning and preparing data, developing and implementing machine learning algorithms, and interpreting and communicating results. This was great training for the challenges and opportunities of my current industry, where I am regarded as a machine learning and AI expert." Rui Wang, MS 2018, Senior Software Engineer, Uber

Nashville

Vanderbilt University is based in Nashville, the capital of Tennessee and one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. A dynamic hub for healthcare, tech, education, and other major industries, Nashville is frequently ranked in the Top 5 on lists such as “Best Cities for Techies” and “The South’s Best Cities.”

With nicknames such as “Music City” and “Athens of the South,” Nashville offers a wide range of cultural experiences, from traditional music and theatre to the Southern Festival of Books, sassy singalongs, and edgy multimedia extravaganzas. The diverse food scene encompasses everything from meat-and-threes and tiki bars to vegan soul food and molecular gastronomy labs. There are numerous facilities and venues for athletes and recreational users, as well as local collegiate and professional sports teams with devoted followings. There is something for everyone here!

Dining

Greenways and parks

Entertainment

Student, staff, and faculty recommendations

(click the arrow to the left of the map title to view the recommendations as lists)

Nashville Sports Leagues

Nashville Visitors Guide

Getting around campus and Nashville

Student organizations and centers (see also under Resources)

A key component of success is connecting with peers and organizations who can help support your personal and professional goals. Here are some Vanderbilt groups and centers dedicated to your interests and wellbeing.

The Biostatistics Graduate Student Association (BGSA)

Vanderbilt Graduate Student Council

Graduate student spaces on campus. There are also carrels and lockers at the department.

Center for Student Wellbeing

K. C. Potter Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer & Intersex Life at Vanderbilt University

Vandy Rec (recreation and wellness center)

More Vanderbilt student organizations (five hundred plus!)

Housing

Thinking of moving to Middle Tennessee? Here’s some information on looking for your new home.

Graduate and professional student housing