HSOC 230 Fundamentals of Epidemiology
Offered:Spring 2010
Kanetsky T 1:30-4:30
This course introduces students to the basic tenets of epidemiology and how to quantitatively study health at the population level. Students learn about measures used to describe populations with respect to health outcomes and the inherent limitations in these measures and their underlying sources of data. Analytic methods used to test scientific questions about health outcomes in populations then are covered, again paying particular attention to the strength and weaknesses of the various approaches.
In general, the first half of the weekly session is used for lecture, while the second half is used either as “lab” to discuss homework or to expose students to practical applications of epidemiological methods through guest lectures. An introductory epidemiology textbook and materials available on Blackboard provide the backbone for the course lectures. Homework sets are due throughout the semester, and students will sit for a midterm and final examination. The final two class sessions typically are student-led during which group presentations are given.
