Math/Stats and Epidemiology

[undergrad1234]

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I'm am admittedly a terrible math student, and I've only taken 2 math classes in college. I've applied for mostly Epidemiology programs at schools like GWU, Yale, BU, etc... I assume that the math/statistics aspect of these programs can't be as intense as it would be in the Biostatistics program. I've taken an Epidemiology course in college and I definitely decided that that is what I wanted to pursue my master's in. Any opinions on whether my chances will be affected by lack of math skills? I guess I have to prove myself on the GRE quantitative section too.

 

[EpiWin]

You're right in that Biostats is considered a more quantitatively selective concentration within public health, though Epi similarly will require a great deal of in-depth statistics and mathematics later on. If you're not good at math/statistics because you don't like it, it would be worthwhile to check some sample syllabi to make sure it's really what you want to pursue.

Doing well on the GRE Q is a key way to demonstrate proficiency, I think most schools that you're applying to will not dismiss applicants for having a limited quant background (I would say that having two math classes actually is helpful since it shows some academic experience).