Advanced methods in Epidemiology, 7.5 Credits

Contents

Epidemiology, the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease in a population, is a discipline which is of fundamental importance for health research and health practice. The discipline encompasses both the study of general methodology and the attainment of skills and knowledge which are specific to the subject itself. The ultimate aim of epidemiology is to provide a basis for the prevention of disease. The identity of epidemiology id founded on its orientation to Public Health, in contrast to clinical research with its bias towards the individual. The purpose of this course is to impart knowledge of more advanced epidemiology, especially regarding different study designs and sources of errors in epidemiological studies including a discussion of causality, (Rothman´s pie model) and it relation to study design. The course also seek to develop skills in the analysis, interpretation and reporting of epidemiological data sets, by use of basic as well as advanced epidemiological analysis including logistic regression and regression methods in survival analysis and appropriate software. Multilevel analysis and its application in epidemiology will be introduced. The participants will also undergo training in critical reading and assessment of epidemiological research reports.

Expected learning outcomes

After completion of the course the student should be able to: – Understand the different methodological consideration and approaches within the field such as study design and causality – Understand in what situations logistic regression and Cox regression is an appropriate analysis tool and perform and interpret the result of logistic regression and Cox regression – Analyse and report sources of errors occurring in an epidemiological study – Independently make an analysis of a epidemiological research report.

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. To be admitted to the course the applicant must have passed the course 3FH023 Epidemiology part 1 and 3FH024 Epidemiology part 2 or have equivalent qualifications. 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 problem. 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.