Epidemiology, part 2, 7.5 Credits

Contents

Focus in this course is in methods of epidemiologic study design, analysis and interpretation. Validity is a central concept and random error and bias are dealt with throughout. Special attention is paid to the problem of confounding and the ways of avoiding confounding in design and analysis. Epidemiological and statistical principles for epidemiological analysis are discussed and practised. In all parts of the course students work with applied exercises, training the use of computers and suitable software for planning, data-management and analysis. Epidemiological study designs, measurements, and methods for analysing epidemiological data are dealt with in detail. Throughout the course, various fields of application of epidemiologic methods are presented and discussed. This includes epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases, cancers, in reproductive health, in studies of outbreak and spread of infections, and the role of epidemiology in health systems research. Focus is on epidemiology in international health, with examples from high, middle and low income countries and the implications for the need of epidemiologic study as well as for the methods used.

Expected learning outcomes

After completion of the course, a student with a pass grade should be able to perform and analyse an epidemiologic study independently. Her knowledge and ability should include: - selection of a study design appropriate to the research question - validity aspects of different design options - confounding control in study design - selection and application of appropriate methods of data analysis - confounding control in epidemiological analysis - interpretation and communication of results - critical appraisal of research reports

Required Knowledge

For non-programme students applying as single-course students, the requirements are 120 ECTS, of which a minimum of 30 ECTS are within one of the following: health sciences, environmental health or social sciences. The applicant must also have passed the course 3FH023 Epidemiology, part 1 or have gained the equivalent knowledge otherwise. 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 in the course is concentrated to two weeks during the course period. Teaching is conducted through lectures, seminars, assignments and group exercises. Seminars, assignments and group exercises are compulsory. All teaching is in English.

Examination modes

Examination is done as written examination and assignments, both individually and in groups. Throughout the course the student must participate in seminars, group project work.. For students who do not receive a passing grade at the first written exam on the course, a re-sit is arranged. A student who fails two examinations has the right to a change of examiner according to University rules. A request for change of 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.