Master of Epidemiology

The core and elective subjects are offered in a range of delivery modes (full semester classroom, 1/2 semester workshop, intensives, distance). Students who have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Epidemiology or equivalent may seek exemption from core subjects and complete 100 points
combining both a research report and elective subjects, or may apply to take a 50 point minor thesis in place of the research report.

On completion of this course, graduates are expected to have:

• An advanced understanding of epidemiological theory and its role and contribution in health-related disciplines
• An understanding of basic statistical concepts and their role in epidemiological design and analysis
• A critical approach to the appraisal of research work
• The skills to identify and prioritise issues in health research and practice
• The capacity to apply epidemiological and biostatistical theory and methods in practice including the demonstrated ability to:
  
  > Identify health issues and formulate research questions
  > Locate, synthesise and critically appraise epidemiological data, systems and research.
  > Design and appraise epidemiological studies
  > Summarise and report epidemiological data
  > Apply standard methods of statistical analysis used in epidemiology
  > Interpret and apply the findings of epidemiological studies
  > Prepare grant applications and manuscripts and deliver effective oral presentations

Core Subjects

Students must complete all SIX Core subjects for both Option 1 and Option 2:

Part time students are expected to take 505-969, 505-970, 505-971 and 505-972 in their 1st year.

Electives

Research Report/Minor Thesis

Students who enroll in Option 2 must complete either of the following subjects:

• 505-930 (Research Project) or
• 505-931 (Minor Thesis)

The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant's ability to pursue successfully the course using the following criteria -

• An honours degree in a relevant discipline with at least H2B (70%) in the major, or equivalent, OR
• a medical degree, OR
• a postgraduate diploma in Epidemiology with at least a H2B (70%) average, or equivalent, OR
• a degree in a relevant discipline with at least a H2B (70%) average in the major, and at least 2 years of relevant documented full-time work experience.

The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any matters to do with selection.

Academically excellent:

• have a strong sense of intellectual integrity and the ethics of scholarship
• have in-depth knowledge of their specialist discipline(s)
• reach a high level of achievement in writing, generic research activities, problem-solving and communication
• be critical and creative thinkers, with an aptitude for continued self-directed learning
• be adept at learning in a range of ways, including through information and communication technologies

Knowledgeable across disciplines:

• examine critically, synthesise and evaluate knowledge across a broad range of disciplines
• expand their analytical and cognitive skills through learning experiences in diverse subjects
• have the capacity to participate fully in collaborative learning and to confront unfamiliar problems
• have a set of flexible and transferable skills for different types of employment

Leaders in communities:

• initiate and implement constructive change in their communities, including professions and workplaces
• have excellent interpersonal and decision-making skills, including an awareness of personal strengths and limitations
• mentor future generations of learners
• engage in meaningful public discourse, with a profound awareness of community needs

Attuned to cultural diversity:

• value different cultures
• be well-informed citizens able to contribute to their communities wherever they choose to live and work
• have an understanding of the social and cultural diversity in our community
• respect indigenous knowledge, cultures and values

Active global citizens:

• accept social and civic responsibilities
• be advocates for improving the sustainability of the environment
• have a broad global understanding, with a high regard for human rights, equity and ethics

• Mid year entry not normally offered. Only students who are exempt from Semester 1 core subjects may apply for mid-year entry.
• This course is taught in face-to-face teaching mode in either semester-long, half-semester or 5 day intensive teaching blocks.
• 505-926 Genetic Epidemiology is also available in distance mode.