Stats needed to be competitive for Epi PhD?

[bt27]

Hi all, I was wondering if somebody could shed some light on what a competitive profile would look like for top PhD programs in epidemiology (i.e., undergrad major/grades, research, graduate institution, etc.). I am thinking about enrolling in a pure biostats MS program, which will be really hard, and am unsure if average performance there will preclude me from entrance into epi programs. Any input would be helpful, thanks! 

[ASA15]

23 hours ago, bt27 said:

Hi all, I was wondering if somebody could shed some light on what a competitive profile would look like for top PhD programs in epidemiology (i.e., undergrad major/grades, research, graduate institution, etc.). I am thinking about enrolling in a pure biostats MS program, which will be really hard, and am unsure if average performance there will preclude me from entrance into epi programs. Any input would be helpful, thanks! 

Grad school grades tend to be pretty good, so I'm really not sure how much of an impact those will make on PhD admission unless you do really poorly. What will matter a lot more is your research experience, any publications, and having a clear story of why a PhD in epi and a clear fit at whatever program you're looking at!