6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Postgraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
Organisational Unit
Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine
Chief examiner(s)
Coordinator(s)
Professor Karin Leder
Dr Sarah McGuinness
Unit guides
Co-requisites
Must be enrolled in one of the following course codes: 4529, M6021
Synopsis
This unit is an introduction to Infectious Disease Epidemiology. Topics include the dynamic nature of infections, the principles of infectious diseases, identification and management of outbreaks and principles of surveillance. The importance of understanding host, environmental, pathogen and transmission factors will be highlighted. Practical examples will be given to highlight major concepts. Online activities, suggested readings and discussion forums aim to enhance students' understanding of the teaching material.
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:
- Assess the importance and dynamic nature of infectious diseases;
- Identify the unique aspects of infectious disease epidemiology and their practical relevance;
- Apply evidence based strategies in the prediction, detection and control of infectious disease outbreaks;
- Critically valuate the epidemiologic principles underlying disease surveillance programs;
- Critically evaluate the epidemiologic principles underlying disease control and prevention strategies;
- Apply and evaluate the potential role of mathematical modelling in relation to infectious diseases.
Assessment
- Contribution to weekly web-based tasks / discussions (45%) (hurdle)
- Assignment (2,400 words) and/or online presentation (40%) (hurdle)
- Online quiz / exercise (15%)
Workload requirements
Off-campus: 20 hours per week for 6 weeks.
See also Unit timetable information