Social Epidemiology, 7.5 Credits

Contents

Social epidemiology applies to the disciplinary approach of epidemiology examining and understanding the contributions of social circumstances and processes to the patterns of health and ill health in populations. The course will explore both the specific theories explaining the relation between the social phenomena and health as well as its methodological tools. Special emphasis will be given to the concepts social position, income inequality, social cohesion and networks. Practical approaches on how to measure individual socioeconomic position and area deprivation indexes and how to explore its relationship with health will be provided.

Expected learning outcomes

After completion of the course the student should be able to: – explain the main theoretical and conceptual frameworks within social epidemiology. – understand the different methodological consideration and approaches within the field. – be aware of the current debates within the field and to discuss critically the strengths and weaknesses of the positions. – independently make an epidemiological analysis of social disparities in health.

Required Knowledge

For non-programme students applying as single-course students, the requirements are 120 ECTS, of which S are within one of the following: health sciences, environmental health or social sciences. a minimum of 30 ECT. English proficiency equivalent to IELTS Academic Training – minimum score 5.0 with no individual score below (4.5) (Tests taken before January 2005 not admissible) or TOEFL – minimum score 500 on paper based test and not below 4.0 on the TWE, Alternatively 173 on computer based test with iBT 61 is also required. Language test scores are not required if you have completed a minimum of two years of studies at an accredited university or college with English as the medium of instruction or you have had one year of graduate studies and have written your thesis in English. For more information please see: http://www8.umu.se/phmed/epidemi/utbildning/mph-requirements.htm

Form of instruction

Teaching on the course is concentrated to two weeks during the course period. Teaching is conducted through lectures and group exercises as well as seminars where students present and discuss articles. Group exercises and seminars are compulsory. Teaching is given in English.

Examination modes

The examination is done in two parts. At the end of the course there is a written exam. During the course the student must present his/hers epidemiological analysis of a particular social disparity in health. The grading scale is Fail, Pass, and Pass with distinction for both the written exam and the epidemiological analysis. In order to be awarded Pass for the course, the grade Pass is required both for the written exam and the analytical project. The same applies to the grade Pass with distinction. For students who do not receive a passing grade at the first written exam on the course, a re-sit exam is arranged. Correspondingly, an extra seminar is arranged for students who do not receive a passing grade on the epidemiological analysis project. A student who fails two examinations has the right to a change of examiner according to the University’s set of rules. A request to change examiner should be sent to the Board of the Faculty of Medicine.

Other regulations

Start-of-study respite A respite for the start of studies may be granted under special circumstances. Examples of such circumstances are illness, military service, pregnancy, care of children or other nursing responsibilities etc. A negative decision about start-of-study respite may be appealed to Överklagandenämnden för högskolan. Course roll call Attendance is compulsory for the course roll call. A student may be relieved from this obligation only through a decision by the course coordinator and only under special circumstances. Non-attendance without a valid reason may lead to the seat being given to another applicant. A decision about this is made by the course coordinator.

Academic credit transfers are always reviewed individually according to the University’s set of rules and academic credit transfer regulations.