About the Summer Program

The Summer Program is an intensive 6-week program, during which qualified participants receive an interesting and enjoyable introduction to biostatistics, epidemiology, and public health research. This program is designed to expose undergraduates to the use of quantitative methods for biological, environmental, and medical research.

Watch some of our students and faculty from the 2017 cohort reflect on their experiences:

Download the Summer Program Brochure & 2019 Summer Program Schedule

2018 Summer Program Schedule

2017 Summer Program Schedule

2016 Summer Program Schedule

2015 Summer Program Schedule

During the course of the program, students will:

  • Take noncredit courses in biostatistics and epidemiology
  • Learn statistical software packages (Python, R, STATA)
  • Participate in a collaborative research project with other students, guided by a graduate student and mentored by a faculty member
  • Prepare and deliver a polished presentation that reports on your research project at the annual symposium
  • Prepare for GRE’s
  • Attend several talks about current research and hot topics in Public Health (e.g., environment, nutrition, social behavior, population health, public policy) by internationally renowned researchers
  • Travel to local laboratories and research centers to observe Public Health research in action
  • Enjoy social and cultural activities in the lively Boston summer
  • Explore graduate school options in quantitative Public Health from our Director of Graduate Studies and prepare for graduate school applications
  • Participate in Professional Development Workshops led by Harvard faculty and staff.  Topics include public speaking, writing your personal statement, resume building, and navigating academia
  • Build relationships with fellow students with similar interests and with faculty in Public Health

Travel to Boston and living stipend (including lodging and some meals) are provided.

Post-Bac Program

The 2-3 month internship program for Post-Baccalaureates began in the summer of 2014.  The program is open to students who have received a bachelor’s degree and who plan to attend a graduate degree program in Biostatistics.