Public Health Epidemiology: A Global Perspective module (GM52071)

As a student within this module, you will develop foundational knowledge of epidemiological concepts, principles and methods applied on a global perspective and be able to go forward and analyse and interpret epidemiological data.

This module is delivered fully online, with discussion boards and interdisciplinary tutor support throughout.

What you will learn

In this module, you will

• Develop an understanding of demography 
• Be aware of types of data sources and standardisation  
• Recognise Epidemiology study designs, for example, Case-Control, Cohort and Ecological studies, as well as including RCTs
• Be aware of sampling strategies including types of bias and confounding 
• Recognise measures of risk, for example, odds ratios, relative risk, population attributable risk as well as concepts of causation such as causal theories, types of causes, and Bradford Hill’s criteria
• Develop an understanding of genetic epidemiology.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Summarise the basic principles of epidemiology, including concepts such as mortality and morbidity, association and causation, standardisation of data, measures of risk, bias and confounding. 
• Demonstrate an understanding of global health challenges, evidence-based decision-making and ethical considerations associated with epidemiological studies. 
• Calculate, analyse and interpret epidemiological data.  
• Critically evaluate the major study designs used in epidemiology and their applicability in understanding the distribution of disease in populations. 
• Demonstrate advanced skills in critical appraisal and problem solving

Assignments / assessments

Formative assessment will include; short quizzes (providing practice for the multiple-choice quiz), and a forum-based group discussion (with Module leads) based on the critical appraisal of an article using an epidemiological study design. 

• Multiple-choice question exam - Timed assessment (30%) 
• Pre-recorded PowerPoint Presentation with video – 15 mins (including completion of a self-assessment and peer review of at least one other presentation) (70%)

Teaching methods / timetable

• Pre-recorded lectures
• Two live interactive tutorials (guided peer)
• Discussion boards for weekly peer and tutor interaction
• On-demand online resources and tutor support
• Use of technology-enhanced learning

This module is delivered fully online