Master of Epidemiology

The Master of Epidemiology provides a solid foundation in epidemiological and analytical skills for those who aim to develop their understanding of the epidemiological and biostatistical theory and methods that underpin epidemiological practice and research, build competence in critical appraisal, and develop core skills for research and practice in epidemiology. The course combines six compulsory integrated subjects in epidemiology and statistical methods with a choice of either two epidemiological specialty elective subjects, or a research report where students conduct an applied project. The project may involve a student analysing existing data, performing a systematic review or developing a research protocol, allowing further development in a specialty interest area of the student's choice according to methods, disease groups and/or population setting.

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

Students have two options:
Option 1: Completion of the 6 core subjects AND 2 electives.
Option 2: Completion of the 6 core subjects AND a research report.

Students must successfully complete one of the following options:

1. Six core subjects and two elective subjects OR
2. Six core subjects and a research project (25 points) OR

Core Subjects

Part time students are expected to take POPH90014 and POPH90013.

Electives

With approval of the course coordinator, students may enrol in up to 2 elective subjects offered by other Schools within the University or via cross-institutional enrolment with other Universities.

Research Report

Students enrolling in the year long project MUST complete the project in 2 semesters consecutively (12.5 points per semester).

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

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

The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and may call for referee reports or employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Description, Course Objectives and Generic Skills of this entry.
The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website.

The Melbourne Experience enables our graduates to become:

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

Please refer to Course Objectives.

• 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.