Participants will be introduced to and interact with evidence on the status quo, trends, research and policy priorities of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Through lectures, seminars, and practical sessions, the module covers: introduction to NCDs and their burden; drivers of NCDs; methodological issues in the study of the epidemiology of NCDs; and research and policy priorities for NCDs, and strategies for their control.
This module aims to:
- provide an overview and stimulate critical thinking on the importance of, and trends in, non-communicable diseases globally, including low- and middle-income countries;
- generate an appreciation of the drivers of the burden of non-communicable diseases and how this knowledge can be used for control;
- identify methodological and conceptual issues for studying, measuring and analysing non-communicable diseases and their control strategies.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module a student will be able to:
- Appreciate the growing global importance of non-communicable diseases across low-, middle- and high-income countries;
- Identify the major determinants of non-communicable diseases and the key challenges faced by epidemiology and public health in studying and controlling these conditions.
Mode of delivery
This module is delivered predominantly face-to-face. Where specific teaching methods (lectures, seminars, discussion groups) are noted in this module specification these will be delivered by predominantly face-to-face sessions. There will be a combination of live and interactive activities (synchronous learning) as well as self-directed study (asynchronous learning).
Assessment
The module features a combination of formative and summative assessments to stimulate critical thinking, application knowledge on NCDs in various settings, and communicating evidence to various audiences.
Formative Assessments
Students will be provided with one or two scientific papers to critically appraise, and asked to submit a short critique.
Summative Assessments
In Week 5, students will sit a timed open book exam covering all lectures, seminars and practical sessions.
Credits
- CATS: 15
- ECTS: 7.5
Module specification
For full information regarding this module please see the module specification.
This module is intended for those with an interest in the epidemiology, public health, and global burden of noncommunicable diseases.
Students will be expected to have a good knowledge of epidemiological methods including familiarity with different study designs, their analysis and interpretation. They should normally have attended the Extended Epidemiology (2007) module in Term 1; however, students who attend the Basic Epidemiology (2001) module will also be considered.
Applications for Terms 2 D1 modules are currently open and will close on 20 January 2025. Applications should be made online via our application portal.