A biostatistician analyzes data to solve problems in medicine, public health, and biological research. You'll use advanced math and statistical methods to interpret complex information. The work is analytical, in demand, and requires a master's degree.
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Biostatisticians analyze data and information from medical studies, clinical trials, and health research. You interpret what the numbers mean and communicate findings to supervisors, peers, and research teams. Your work involves making decisions based on statistical evidence, processing large datasets, and explaining results to people without statistical training. You spend significant time working with computers and statistical software, turning raw data into insights that guide medical and public health decisions.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Biostatisticians earn a median of $105,650 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 9 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for all occupations, with about 2,000 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a master's degree to enter this field. Your studies will focus on mathematics, statistics, biology, and medicine. Strong preparation includes coursework in mathematics, computers and electronics, and biological sciences. Many programs combine classroom learning with hands-on data analysis projects. You should develop skills in reading comprehension, critical thinking, and active learning. Consider internships or research assistantships during your graduate studies to build practical experience before entering the workforce.
Most biostatisticians pursue a master's degree after completing undergraduate coursework in math or biology. The path depends on your background and timeline, so if you're deciding where to start, Pathly can map the biostatistician path that fits you and turn it into a step-by-step plan with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a biostatistician, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're drawn to investigative work that combines math, science, and problem-solving. You enjoy analyzing complex information and explaining what it means to others.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
Start with a quick quiz and assessments that surface your personality, your EQ, and what really motivates you, so your next steps are built around who you actually are.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).