HAR619: Epidemiology

The Epidemiology module is led by Hannah Jordan. It runs in the Autumn semester and is worth 15 credits.


Module description

Epidemiology is the discipline underpinning both effective public health practice and research into the causes, control and prevention of disease. Knowledge and understanding of epidemiological concepts and methods is a basic requirement for effective public health practice.

This module will provide an introduction to epidemiology covering key epidemiological concepts:

  • Measures of disease.
  • Association and causation.
  • Confounding and bias.

It will also introduce research designs including cross-sectional, ecological, cohort, case-control and intervention studies and introduce population health measures such as screening.


Objectives

This module aims to develop an understanding and basic proficiency in epidemiological methods as applied to public health, in particular in the areas of epidemiological concepts, measures, research designs and interpretation.


Teaching

This module can also be taken as part of the following courses:

The teaching methods aim to deliver core knowledge through a lecture series accompanied by practical exercises.

Learning will include applying the key concepts to practical public health scenarios. The lectures will provide students with knowledge about epidemiological methods and their associated epidemiological concepts. The problem solving work will allow students to be able to critically appraise epidemiological research designs and interpret relevant results.

There are 12 timetabled sessions that are two hours long.  The sessions mix lectures and problem solving work. These will include individual and group exercises, structured questions, critical appraisal of epidemiological papers and revision sessions.

There is a structured timetable of work to be completed in advance of the lecture sessions each week, giving students the opportunity to consider relevant concepts in depth.


Fees and funding

You can find out more about fees and funding for CPD modules in the School of Medicine and Population Health at the link below. We accept sponsored as well as self-funding students.

Fees and funding information


How to apply

Find out what you need to do to apply for a CPD module in the School of Medicine and Population Health.

Apply for this module


Contact

For more information on this module, speak to the lead academic:

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

Information last updated:


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International scholarships

We offer a generous package of financial support for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate taught scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee.

Applications are open for existing offer holders for programmes starting in autumn 2025.