In 1949, the University of North Carolina School of Public Health established the Department of Biostatistics with the goals to advance statistical science, and, ultimately by its application, to improve human health. To achieve these goals, the Department of Biostatistics offers training and research programs to develop and apply innovative statistical methods to problems of human health and disease, including basic biomedical sciences.

Today, the Department of Biostatistics is one of the strongest academic units in the School of Public Health, and it stands as one of the best departments of its kind in the world.

Mission Statement:

• Support excellence in biostatistical practice by conducting methods research
• Promote sound application of these statistical methods
• Work for the improvement of biostatistical education at all levels
• Anticipate and meet the learning needs of our students
• Use the tools of our discipline to enhance human welfare though collaboration in the research done by colleagues in the biological and health professions
• Seek opportunities to advance the biostatistics profession.

Vision Statement:

• To be a world leader in promoting statistical research, applications,and practice, all in the name of improving the public's health, improving biostatistical education, and advancing the biostatistics profession.