Improving my Application for Biostats PhD

[KaitlynC]

I applied to several programs (University of Michigan, UMass Amherst, etc.) for a PhD in Biostats, but only got into the master's program. I know that getting into the master's is good, but it's really expensive and I don't know if I can afford it. 

What should I do to improve my application in the future? If I turn down going to the master's program, but then apply for the PhD again later on, will that reflect badly on me?

I'm a biochem major with a 3.53 GPA. My relevant math courses are:

Calc I and II (A), Calc III (B), Differential Equations (B), Probability and Statistics (B), Regression and ANOVA (B+), Linear Algebra (B-). 

I am currently retaking Linear Algebra, although the programs accepted me into the master's program without knowing my grade. I am taking Mathematical Statistics this semester. I also have 2.5 years research experience in a biochemistry lab. 

 

Thank you so much for your help and input!

[Aspiring_stats_student2312]

If you are not going to do master, I think you can try work as research assistant?

[csheehan10]

It will not reflect badly on you to turn down a masters programme. Many people cannot afford to undertake a masters, and admission committees know this.