Master of Statistics and Data Science

The need for well-trained biostatisticians, bioinformaticians, and epidemiological and public-health scientists is ever-increasing, enhanced by the scientific revolution in molecular biology and genetics, and its impact on health and the environment.

Hasselt University’s Master of Statistics and Data Science with specializations: Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, Quantitative Epidemiology and Data Science , keep abreast of such evolutions. The master's program combines a solid study of principles of applied and biostatistics with up-to-date information on topics such as clinical trials, public health, longitudinal data, survival analysis, genetics, survey methodology, etc.

The specialization in Bioinformatics makes it possible to keep an even closer pace with the more specific professional needs and skills required due to the development of novel experimental techniques in molecular biology and genetics.

Hasselt University’s Master of Statistics acquired accreditation from the prestigious Royal Statistical Society and is currently in the process of applying for renewal of the RSS accreditation.

Graduates from accredited courses will be granted the Society’s professional status of Graduate Statistician on the application. Graduate Statistician is a grade of professional membership of the Society. It provides formal recognition of an individual’s statistical qualifications. Graduate Statisticians will be able to further undertake suitable professional training and experience, normally for at least five years, so as to be eligible to apply for Chartered Statistician status

Strengths of the Master of Statistics: Biostatistics

In the specialization, Biostatistics/Biostatistics ICP sound training in modern statistical methodology, necessary for the design and analysis of biomedical and epidemiological studies, is provided. Core biostatistics courses are Longitudinal Data Analysis, Survival Analysis, and Clinical Trials. The specialization in Biostatistics has a strong research orientation.

The program of students from developing countries, with a scholarship sponsored by the University Development Cooperation Section of the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS), is adapted to their specific needs and interests in the Biostatistics ICP specialization.

Strengths of the Master of Statistics:  Bioinformatics

The rapid evolution of scientific research in genomics and proteomics continuously requires new knowledge and skills. Besides a working knowledge of molecular biology, there is the need for specialized knowledge of, and applied skills in database management, computer programming, statistical techniques, and knowledge discovery & integration.

The Master of Statistics: Bioinformatics prepares graduates in such a way that they: • Are able to design and analyze experiments aimed at obtaining genomic and proteomic data. • Possess the necessary knowledge and skills to develop, understand and create bioinformatics software tools and databases. • Become self-assured, independent, and assertive professionals for whom analyzing an issue, structuring information, working in international and multidisciplinary teams, conducting and chairing discussions, and presenting ideas have become second nature.

Strengths of the Master of Statistics:  Epidemiology and Public Health Methodology

The specialization Epidemiology & Public Health Methodology offers a professionally-oriented program with an emphasis on epidemiology, modeling of infectious diseases, and microbial risk assessment.

Hasselt University is a young, dynamic centre of expertise for teaching, research, and service provision. It regards it as its social responsibility to contribute actively to a sustainable and innovative region. It aspires to be a hub in this innovation web. Hasselt University, therefore, attaches great importance to cooperation with other centres of expertise, companies, government agencies and organizations in Limburg and beyond.

As one of the drivers of regional innovation, Hasselt University focuses specifically on:

• educating students so that they become highly skilled, employable professionals;
• conducting applied and fundamental research in specific fields and encouraging practical applications from that research;
• spreading its knowledge and expertise through collaboration with industry and other external partners;
• developing foreign partnerships.

Basic principles in the implementation of these key roles are academic and scientific freedom, social engagement, attention to ethical standards and awareness of wider implications – without ideological discrimination.

For Hasselt University, the development of the human potential of all its students and staff comes first.

Facts and figures

6.433 students

604 doctoral students (of which 43% international students)

1.400 members of staff

• independent academic staff
• assisting academic staff
• administrative and technical staff

2 campuses

• Diepenbeek Campus
• Hasselt Campus

17 Bachelor programmes

30 Master programmes (5 English taught)

6 faculties + 2 school

• Architecture and Arts
• Business Management
• Medicine and Life Sciences
• Engineering Technology
• Law
• Rehabilitation Sciences
• Sciences
• • School of Transportation Sciences
• • School of Educational Studies

4 Research institutes + 3 Researh Centres

• Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED)
• Data Science Institute (Censtat)
• Institute for Materials Research (imo-imomec)
• Institute for Environmental Sciences (CMK)
• Expertise Centre for Digital Media (EDM)
• Transportation Research Centre (IMOB)
• Limburg Clinical Research Centre (LCRC)