The overall module aim is to cover a comprehensive range of topics on the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and intended to be applicable in a wide variety of settings.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module, a student should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key concepts related to the epidemiology, infection dynamics, and natural history of HIV.
- Describe and critically appraise the different components of HIV services and how HIV programmes are designed and implemented to meet the needs of all people living with HIV.
- Critically evaluate how political, social, economic and ethical contexts impact the HIV response.
- Integrate the aforementioned knowledge and skills to develop context-specific HIV prevention, testing and treatment programmes.
Session Content
The module is expected to cover the following topics:
- The biology of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and how this affects the immune system.
- Clinical features of HIV infection including diagnosis and treatment.
- Epidemiology of HIV infection.
- Routes of transmission and the impact of HIV/AIDS prevention and control strategies.
- Social determinants that are relevant to the spread and control of HIV.
- Issues related to HIV programming, counselling and ethical issues.
- An in-depth debate.
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 formal assessment of this module is a three-page report. The first two pages are based on group work presenting a profile of an HIV epidemic in a specified country (30%). The third page is based on individual coursework preparing a concept note for a funding application (70%).
Credits
- CATS: 15
- ECTS: 7.5
Module specification
For full information regarding this module please see the module specification.
This module is intended for students with some level of scientific background who wish to broaden their perspective on the various subject areas of HIV/AIDS. Students who wish to concentrate on the biomedical aspects of HIV/AIDS should consider taking the Clinical Virology (3187) module,
Applications for Term 3 E modules are currently open and will close on Tuesday 1 April 2025. Applications should be made online via our application portal.