Description:
This document outlines objectives of the core program in epidemiology and biostatistics for MSc students registered in the Riphah stream. In this program all the students will be introduced to the disciplines of epidemiology and biostatistics. They will design epidemiological studies to answer research questions, and use basic statistical concepts and methods to collect and analyse quantitative data. They will develop practical skills in applying epidemiological and biostatistical concepts, and in evaluating epidemiological research findings relevant to professional statistical and epidemiological concepts are taught in parallel to promote integration of knowledge across both disciplines. The statistics component develops skills and understanding of basic statistical analysis methods.
Mode of Study:
Face to face classes on campus
Course Aim:
The aim of this course is to enable students to apply an epidemiological approach to the study of disease and illness, to critically appraise, interpret and assess the quality of evidence of a range of study designs and to apply appropriate statistical techniques in the analysis of public health data.
Course Objectives:
General learning objectives:
The general objective of the core teaching program in epidemiology is to introduce students to the principles and methods of epidemiologic research to enable them to design, conduct, analyze, and interpret epidemiologic research. Upon completion of the MSc degree, students should have acquired an understanding of the following broad topics:
a) Contribution of epidemiology and biostatistics to health research
b) Design, conduct, and analysis of epidemiologic studies
c) Critical appraisal of epidemiologic studies, synthesis and integration of epidemiologic research.
In addition, students should have acquired a basic knowledge of some substantive epidemiology, including a general appreciation of broad public health problems in Pakistan and internationally.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
· Describe appropriate study designs to assess population health status, determinants of health and health related events.
· Calculate and interpret measures of disease occurrence, measures of association between exposures and disease, and measures of public health impact
· Demonstrate understanding of statistical methods, and recognise the appropriate statistical test of significance for different types of variables.
· Critically appraise published studies, demonstrating the ability to assess study design and methods of data analysis, as well as interpret study methods, results and conclusions for error and bias.
Biostatistics a foundation for analysis in the health sciences by 
