Epidemiology and Biostatistics 2

This unit builds on Epidemiology and Biostatistics 1 to extend on students’ understanding, application and interpretation of fundamental epidemiologic and biostatistical concepts. Students will develop the capability to identify, differentiate, select and apply biostatistical concepts as appropriate and interpret the output of biostatistical tests. This capability will enable students to critically analyse epidemiological studies and identify the strengths and limitations of epidemiological approaches. This unit explores study designs, including cross-sectional and longitudinal studies and innovations such as natural experiments to analyse and describe causality using observational data. Students will describe the determinants of significant population health problems. Students will also learn to identify and differentiate sources of bias and approaches to reducing bias or undertaking sensitivity analyses to better understand the impact of bias. The unit provides students opportunities to use statistical software programs to conduct biostatistical analysis of data.