Natural Science 0248 - Epidemiology

Is an introduction to the principles and practice of epidemiology, the core science of public health and the primary tool for measuring health disparities. The course covers the major concepts usually found in a graduate-level introductory course in epidemiology: outbreak investigations, study design, measures of effect, internal and external validity, reliability, and causal inference. Assigned readings are drawn from a standard textbook and the primary literature. In addition, students read case studies and work step-by-step through major epidemiologic investigations of the 20th century, including the first studies linking smoking and lung cancer; the controversies regarding HIV screening in the early years of the AIDS epidemic; and the emergence of a mysterious syndrome eventually linked to a health supplement. Students also form small groups to design and conduct a small epidemiologic study on campus. The major assignments for the course are four case studies; regular response papers/worksheets on the readings; a critique of a primary paper; a poster presentation of the on-campus study; and a proposal for an epidemiologic study of the student's choosing. Key words: epidemiology, public health, health disparities, data science

This course includes both in person and remote elements but can accommodate fully remote students. Students should generally expect to spend 6-8 hours per week on work outside of class.