Course of Study

The core curriculum for the doctoral program in Statistical Genetics and Bioinformatics includes a two semester sequence in mathematical statistics, a three semester sequence in advanced probability and stochastic processes and a three semester sequence in applied statistics including the Introduction to Biostatistics and Bioinformatics overview course. All courses are jointly offered through Rice University and MD Anderson Cancer Center, however, institution indicated in parenthesis has the primary responsibility for the course.

Core Curriculum (required)

Year 1 (Fall and Spring Semester)

• Statistical Inference I and II (Rice)
• Advanced Probability I and II (Rice)
• Introduction to Biostatistics and Bioinformatics (MDA/Rice))
• Applied Linear Models and Statistical Computing (Rice)
• Computational Biology Seminar and Journal Club (2 semesters, once in two weeks, attendance only)

Year 2 and 3

• Stochastic Processes (Rice)
• Categorical Analysis (MDA)
• Stochastic Models in Genetics (Rice)

Students must complete an additional nine graduate courses that are approved by the graduate advisor(s) for the Statistical genetics and Bioinformatics program. Students are also expected to complete six hours of the Graduate Seminar in Statistics and six hours of an advanced practicum in statistics and six hours of genetics and genomics related courses.

Advanced Courses Currently Offered

• See the general Statistics listing

The doctoral program in Statistical Genetics and Bioinformatics is designed around a three-year course of study prior to full time research activities. However, students are expected to begin research activities, which may take form of computing or laboratory experience, after their third semester of study and successful completion of comprehensive examinations, given after the third semester of study.

After successful completion of 36 hours (the first 3 semesters) of study and passing the comprehensive exams, students will receive a MS from the Department of Statistics at Rice University. After the third semester students designate the institution of choice for the Ph.D degree. Students will continue to take courses, which are jointly offered by both institutions but may choose either Rice University or MD Anderson as their primary institution. The Ph.D. will be granted to successful candidates through their primary institution.

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