Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV
Graduate Diploma in Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV
(GradDipSTD/HIV) KF068
Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV)
(MMed(STD/HIV)) KC091
Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV)
(MScMed(STD/HIV)) KC092
Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) and Master of Philosophy
(MMed(STD/HIV)) KC093 for AusAID students, KC091 and KC083 for all other students
Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) and Master of Philosophy
(MScMed(STD/HIV)) KC094 for AusAID students, KC092 and KC083 for all other students
| Course | Credit points for award |
Duration full-time | Duration part-time |
|---|---|---|---|
| GradDipSTD/HIV | 36 | 1 year | 1.5 to 3 years |
| MMed(STD/HIV) | 48 | 1 year | 1.5 to 6 years |
| MScMed(STD/HIV) | 48 | 1 year | 1.5 to 6 years |
| MMed(STD/HIV)/MPhil | 48 + research thesis | 2 years | as per individual resolutions |
| MScMed(STD/HIV)/MPhil | 48 + research thesis | 2 years | as per individual resolutions |
Overview
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) present major public health concerns in both developed and developing countries, with millions of adults and children becoming infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and other STDs each year.
This program provides high levels of knowledge and skills related to the diagnosis, management and control of STDs, including HIV infection. An emphasis is placed on the importance of clinical, laboratory, public health and behavioural aspects of sexual health.
The clinical attachments undertaken by students in the Graduate Diploma in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) and the Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) give direct experience of patient care at sexual health and HIV services.
As part of the Graduate Diploma of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) and Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) students undertake a corresponding laboratory attachment.
While lectures take place at the University of Sydney Camperdown Campus and at the Western Clinical School Campus, clinical and laboratory experience occurs at a variety of locations throughout Sydney. An increasing proportion of the course is being made available online.
Course Outcomes
As a result of participation, graduates will achieve high levels of knowledge and skill in the understanding and control of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. An emphasis is placed on the importance of clinical, laboratory, public health and behavioural aspects of sexual health.
Graduates have subsequently used their skills acquired during the Program in a wide variety of jobs, including clinical care, program delivery, Public Health initiatives and in diagnostic laboratories. Many units of study are recognised as covering material required by Advanced Trainees in Sexual Health Medicine of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
Further Information
The program is offered as either a coursework-only master's degree or as a double degree with the coursework-only master's degree followed by a research master's degree. Information on the Master of Philosophy is available in the Postgraduate Research Studies chapter.
The Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) and the Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) are essentially the same program with different admission requirements, and the same applies to the Graduate Diploma in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) and the Graduate Diploma of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV).
Only medical graduates (ie those with an MBBS) may be admitted to the Master of Medicine/Graduate Diploma in Medicine, while non-medical graduates may be admitted to the Master of Science in Medicine/Graduate Diploma of Science in Medicine.
Students follow the same program of study (with the exception, in some cases, of practical work), with the only difference being the title of the course they are awarded on completion.
Double Degree Students
Domestic Students who wish to enrol in the double degree program enrol in a Masters degree (KC091 or KC092) and a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) (KC083). Information about the MPhil can be found in the Postgraduate Research Studies chapter.
Those students enrolled in the double degree will be required to have found a supervisor for their research degree and to submit a full research proposal for their MPhil by the end of the second semester of enrolment. In order to progress to the Master of Philosophy, students must also obtain a weighted average mark of at last 65 per cent across all 48 CP of coursework units and achieve at least 65 per cent in the unit of study SEXH5220 Thesis Development in STD/HIV.
Students who have not submitted their thesis by the end of their first year of enrolment must re-enrol every semester, with the associated financial cost, until they submit their thesis.
Information for students on AusAID scholarships is provided at the end of this chapter.
Degree Resolutions
Sydney Medical School resolutions and the printed handbook are the official statement of Faculty policy. The resolutions contained in the printed handbook are accurate as at November 2010. If a conflict is perceived between the content of the printed handbook and information available elsewhere, Sydney Medical School resolutions and the information available in the handbook online shall always take precedence. See the handbook online website:
http://sydney.edu.au/handbooks/handbooks_admin/medicine.shtml.
See the Policy Online website: http://sydney.edu.au/policy, for copies of University policies.
Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV)
These resolutions must be read in conjunction with applicable University By-laws, Rules and policies including (but not limited to) the University of Sydney (Coursework) Rule 2000 (the 'Coursework Rule'), the Resolutions of the Faculty, the University of Sydney (Student Appeals against Academic Decisions) Rule 2006 (as amended) and the Academic Board policies on Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism.
Course resolutions
1 Course codes
| Code | Course and stream title |
|---|---|
| KF068 |
Graduate Diploma in Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV |
| KC091 | Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) |
| KC092 | Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) |
2 Attendance pattern
3 Master's type
0.
The master's degrees in these resolutions are professional master's courses, as defined by the Coursework Rule.
4 Embedded courses in this sequence
(2)
Provided candidates satisfy the admission requirements for each stage, a candidate may progress to the award of any of the courses in this sequence. Only the longest award completed will be conferred.
5 Admission to candidature
(1)
Available places will be offered to qualified applicants according to the following admissions criteria. In exceptional circumstances the Dean may admit applicants without these qualifications who, in the opinion of the Faculty, have qualifications, evidence of experience and achievement sufficient to successfully undertake the award.
0.0
a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification;
0.0
a bachelor's degree with first or second class honours from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification;
0.0
a bachelor's degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification. Applicants must have completed work equivalent to a first or second class honours bachelor's degree or pass a preliminary examinations(s) as prescribed by the Faculty.
0.0
a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification.
(4)
Admission to the Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) requires:
0.0
a bachelor's degree with first or second class honours from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification;
0.0
a bachelor's degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification. Applicants must have completed work equivalent to a first or second class honours bachelor's degree or pass a preliminary examinations(s) as prescribed by the faculty.
6 Requirements for award
(1)
The units of study that may be taken for the course are set out in the Table of Units of Study: Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV.
(2)
To qualify for the award of the Graduate Diploma in Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV a candidate must successfully complete 36 credit points, including:
(3)
To qualify for the award of the Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) or Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) a candidate must successfully complete 48 credit points, including:
7 Transitional provisions
Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) / Master of Philosophy
These resolutions must be read in conjunction with applicable University By-laws, Rules and policies including (but not limited to) the University of Sydney (Coursework) Rule 2000 (the 'Coursework Rule'), the Resolutions of the Faculty, the University of Sydney (Student Appeals against Academic Decisions) Rule 2006 (as amended) and the Academic Board policies on Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism.
Course resolutions
1 Course codes
| Code | Course and stream title |
|---|---|
| KC093 | Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) / Master of Philosophy (for AusAID candidates only) |
| KC094 | Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) / Master of Philosophy (for AusAID candidates only) |
2 Attendance pattern
3 Master's type
0.
The coursework master's degrees in these resolutions are professional master's courses, as defined by the Coursework Rule.
4 Admission to candidature
(1)
These double degrees are only available to AusAID students and places will be offered to qualified applicants according to the following admissions criteria. In exceptional circumstances the Dean may admit applicants without these qualifications who, in the opinion of the Faculty, have qualifications, evidence of experience and achievement sufficient to successfully undertake the award. Non-AusAID applicants should apply for admission to KC092 Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) or KC093 Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) and/or KC083 Master of Philosophy.
(2)
Admission to the Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV)/Master of Philosophy requires:
(a)
the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification;
(3)
Admission to the Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV)/Master of Philosophy requires:
(a)
a bachelor's degree with first or second class honours from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification;
(b)
a bachelor's degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification. Applicants normally must have completed work equivalent to a first or second class honours bachelor's degree or pass a preliminary examination(s) as prescribed by the Faculty; this requirement may be waived if the applicant has obtained at least a credit in the highest course available in the subject(s) relevant to the proposed course of advanced study and research.
(4)
Admission to candidature will be conditional upon the appointment of an appropriate supervisor and associate supervisor.
5 Requirements for award
(1)
The units of study that may be taken for the courses are set out in the Table of Units of Study: Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV.
(a)
fulfil the requirements for the award of the Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV) or the Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases/HIV). In the combined program, candidates must successfully complete 48 credit points, including:
(b)
fulfil the requirements for award of the Master of Philosophy and enrol in a minimum of 48 credit points of research units of study. The requirement to undertake a 6 credit point Research Methods unit of study in the Master of Philosophy will be waived for candidates in the double degree.
6 Progression rules
7 Course transfer
(1)
A candidate may abandon the double degree and elect to complete the Graduate Diploma (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV), Master of Science in Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) or Master of Medicine (Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV) in accordance with the resolutions governing that degree and providing candidates satisfy the admission requirements.
(2)
A candidate may apply to transfer from the Master of Philosophy in the double degree, to the Doctor of Philosophy with credit. Successful candidates shall cease to be a candidate for the double degree.
8 Transitional provisions
Table of Units of Study: Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV
| Unit of study | Credit points | A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition | Session |
|---|---|---|---|
Core units |
|||
| SEXH5008 Sex and Society |
2 | Semester 2b |
|
| SEXH5101 Public Health Aspects of STDs |
2 | S2 Intensive Semester 2a |
|
| SEXH5102 Public Health Aspects of HIV/AIDS |
2 | Semester 2b |
|
| SEXH5200 Advanced STIs |
6 | S1 Intensive Semester 1 |
|
| SEXH5202 Advanced HIV Infection |
6 | S2 Intensive Semester 2 |
|
| SEXH5206 Diagnostic Methods in Sexual Health |
6 |
Note: Department permission required for enrolment Students who are not enrolled in the STD/HIV program through the Faculty of Medicine must apply to Associate Professor Richard Hillman for permission to enrol in this unit of study. |
Semester 1 |
| SEXH5207 STI/HIV Clinical Attachment |
6 | C SEXH5200 and SEXH5202 |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Additional Core units of study for the master's degree and Elective units for the graduate diploma |
|||
| Candidates for the graduate diploma must complete six credit points of electives from this list or from the list of Elective Units | |||
| PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses |
6 | N BSTA5011 |
Semester 1 |
| PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
Elective units |
|||
| PUBH5115 Alcohol, Drug Use and Health |
2 | N PUBH5114 |
Semester 2a |
| PUBH5205 Decision Analysis |
2 | P PUBH5018 and PUBH5010 Recommended: PUBH5302 Health Economic Evaluation |
Semester 2b |
| PUBH5206 Controlled Trials |
2 | P PUBH5018 |
Semester 2 |
| PUBH5212 Categorical Data Analysis |
2 | P PUBH5018 C PUBH5211 |
Semester 2b |
| PUBH5213 Survival Analysis |
2 | C PUBH5211 |
Semester 2b |
| PUBH5221 Qualitative Research Methods |
2 | P PUBH5031 or MIPH5132 |
Semester 2 |
| PUBH5414 Public Health Advocacy |
2 | Semester 2 |
|
| PUBH5415 Injury Prevention |
2 | Semester 2 |
|
| PUBH5416 Vaccines in Public Health |
2 |
Note: Department permission required for enrolment Students may be required to request permission from the unit of study coordinator to enrol in this unit of study. In this situation, the coordinator emails the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit advice that the student has permission to enrol. |
Semester 2 |
| SEXH5205 Advanced Adolescent Sexual Health |
6 | N SEXH5204 |
Semester 2 |
Thesis Development unit of study for the double degree |
|||
| SEXH5220 Thesis Development in STD/HIV |
2 | P Departmental permission required Note: Department permission required for enrolment |
Semester 2 |
Research Units of Study for International or AusAID candidates enrolled in the double degree |
|||
| Candidates must complete the following four units over the two years. Please consult the Medicine Handbook for specific enrolment patterns on semester of commencement. If the candidates is not able to submit the thesis for the Master of Philosophy after two years of enrolment, they must enrol in both MEDF4003 and MEDF4004 for further semesters, with the associated cost of enrolment, until they are able to submit. | |||
| MEDF4001 Medicine Research A |
12 |
Note: Department permission required for enrolment |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
| MEDF4002 Medicine Research B |
12 | C MEDF4001 |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
| MEDF4003 Medicine Research C |
12 | C MEDF4002 |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
| MEDF4004 Medicine Research D |
12 | C MEDF4003 |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Further enquiries
Associate Professor Richard Hillman
Phone: +61 2 9845 6276
Fax: +61 2 9845 6287
Email:
Website: http://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine/stirc
AusAID Scholarship students
In order to comply with their scholarship requirements and to fulfil the requirements of the double degree, ie. 48 credit points of coursework for the coursework master's degree and the equivalent of at least one year full-time for the Master of Philosophy, students on AusAID scholarships must enrol in research units of study for their Master of Philosophy as shown in the following table.
| semester of enrolment | UoS codes | UoS names |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | MEDF4001 MEDF4002 |
Medicine A Medicine B |
| 2 | MEDF4003 MEDF4004 |
Medicine C Medicine D |
Units of Study Descriptions for 2011
MEDF4001 Medicine Research A
Credit points: 12 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit and the associated units, MEDF4002, MEDF4003, MEDF4004, and MEDF4005, are research units of study. The contents and assessments are determined according to each individual student's needs.
MEDF4002 Medicine Research B
Credit points: 12 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Corequisites: MEDF4001 Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
See MEDF4001.
MEDF4003 Medicine Research C
Credit points: 12 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Corequisites: MEDF4002 Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
See MEDF4001.
MEDF4004 Medicine Research D
Credit points: 12 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Corequisites: MEDF4003 Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
See MEDF4001
PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x1hr lecture and 1x2hr tutorial per week for 13 weeks - lectures and tutorials may be completed online Prohibitions: BSTA5011 Assessment: 1x4page assignment (30%) and 1x2.5hr open-book exam (70%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
This unit provides students with core skills in epidemiology, particularly the ability to critically appraise public health and clinical epidemiological research literature. This unit covers: study types; measures of frequency and association; measurement bias; confounding/effect modification; randomized trials; systematic reviews; screening and test evaluation; infectious disease outbreaks; measuring public health impact and use and interpretation of population health data. It is expected that students spend an additional 2-3 hours preparing for their tutorials.
Textbooks
Webb, PW. Bain, CJ. and Pirozzo, SL. Essential Epidemiology: An Introduction for Students and Health Professionals: Cambridge University Press 2005.
PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Mr Kevin McGeechan and Associate Professor Petra Macaskill Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 x 2hr lecture, 10 x 1hr lectures, 11 x 2hr tutorials, 2 x 1hr and 8 x 0.5hr statistical computing self directed learning tasks over 12 weeks - lectures and tutorials may be completed online Assessment: 1x4 page assignment (30%) and 1x2.5hr open-book exam (70%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
This unit aims to provide students with an introduction to statistical concepts, their use and relevance in public health. This unit covers descriptive analyses to summarise and display data; concepts underlying statistical inference; basic statistical methods for the analysis of continuous and binary data; and statistical aspects of study design. Specific topics include: sampling; probability distributions; sampling distribution of the mean; confidence interval and significance tests for one-sample, two paired samples and two independent samples for continuous data and also binary data; correlation and simple linear regression; distribution-free methods for two paired samples, two independent samples and correlation; power and sample size estimation for simple studies; statistical aspects of study design and analysis. Students will be required to perform analyses using a calculator and will also be required to conduct analyses using statistical software (SPSS). It is expected that students spend an additional 2 hours per week preparing for their tutorials. Computing tasks are self-directed.
Textbooks
Course notes are provided.
PUBH5115 Alcohol, Drug Use and Health
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Carolyn Day, Associate Professor Kate Conigrave Session: Semester 2a Classes: 7 weeks of 1 x 2hr teaching sessions and associated online activities. The teaching sessions are a combination of face to face and online seminars. Students not able to attend face to face sessions can do the entire course online. Prohibitions: PUBH5114 Assessment: 1x 1500 word assignment (60%); compulsory online discussion participation (30%); online quizzes (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Distance Education/Intensive on Campus or On-line
This unit aims to assist students in developing an evidence-based understanding of the epidemiology of alcohol and drug use and its impact on health, and the effectiveness of methods for the prevention and management of related problems.
Textbooks
Readings are available on the unit's WebCT site.
PUBH5205 Decision Analysis
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor John Simes, Dr Andrew Martin Session: Semester 2b Classes: 1 x 2hr lecture per week for 6 weeks Prerequisites: PUBH5018 and PUBH5010 Assessment: 1 x quiz (20%) and 1 written assignment (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Recommended: PUBH5302 Health Economic Evaluation
This unit examines quantitative approaches to public health and clinical decision-making. Topics of study include: decision trees and health related utility assessment; incorporating diagnostic information in decision making; sensitivity and threshold analysis and application of decision analysis to economic evaluation. Exercises are set at the end of most sessions and are reviewed at the start of the following session. Readings are also set after most sessions. Preparation time for each session is 1-2 hours. The fifth session comprises a quiz followed by a 1hr practical in the computing room using a decision analysis software package.
PUBH5206 Controlled Trials
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Diana Zannino, Mr Chris Brown Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x 1day workshops Prerequisites: PUBH5018 Assessment: 1x2hr multiple choice and short answer exam (40%), 1x take home question exam (60%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit introduces important issues in trial design, protocol development, ethics and principles of analysis. Topics of study include: principles of controlled trials; study design and randomization; analysis and interpretation; ethical issues and data management considerations. At the end of this unit, students should acquire skills relating to parallel and cross-over trial design, setting up a randomisation scheme, and understanding issues of multiplicity in clinical trials. During the workshop, there will be formal lectures on an area of controlled trials methodology, followed by a practical session led by a faculty member, based on material to be reviewed by students prior to the class. Lecture notes and solutions to practicals will be provided.
Textbooks
Recommended: Keech A, Gebski V, Pike R. Interpreting and reporting clinical trials: a guide to the CONSORT statement and the principles of randomised controlled trials. Sydney: Australasian Medical Publishing Company; 2007
PUBH5212 Categorical Data Analysis
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Petra Macaskill Session: Semester 2b Classes: 1 x 2hr lecture, 5 x 1hr lectures, and 5 x 1hr tutorials over 6 weeks. Prerequisites: PUBH5018 Corequisites: PUBH5211 Assessment: 1x 3 page report (30%) and 1x 8 page report (70%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
In this unit the biostatistical concepts covered in earlier units are extended to cover analysis of epidemiological studies where the outcome variable is categorical. Topics of study include: testing for trend in a 2 x r contingency table; the Mantel-Haenszel test for the combination of several 2 x 2 tables, with estimation of the combined odds ratio and confidence limits; multiple logistic regression; Poisson regression; modelling strategy. The assignments will involve practical analysis and interpretation of categorical data. Data analyses will be conducted using statistical software (SAS). Students studying in distance mode must have access to a computer running Microsoft Windows.
Textbooks
Course notes are provided.
PUBH5213 Survival Analysis
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Judy Simpson Session: Semester 2b Classes: 1 x 1hr lecture and 1 x 1hr tutorial per week for six weeks both face to face and distance mode. Students studying in distance mode must have access to a computer running Microsoft Windows. Corequisites: PUBH5211 Assessment: 1x 3 page assignment (20%) and 1x 10 page assignment (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
During this unit, students learn to analyse data from studies in which individuals are followed up until a particular event occurs, e.g. death, cure, relapse, making use of follow-up data also for those who do not experience the event. This unit covers: Kaplan-Meier life tables; logrank test to compare two or more groups; Cox's proportional hazards regression model; checking the proportional hazards assumption; sample size calculations for survival studies. For each topic participants are given some material to read beforehand. This is followed by a lecture, then participants are given one or two exercises to do for the following week. These exercises are discussed in the tutorial at the next session before moving on to the next topic. That is, in most weeks the first hour is a tutorial and the lecture is given in the second hour. Participants are expected to run SAS programs in their own time. Preparation time for each session is 2-3 hours. The assignments both involve use of SAS to analyse a set of survival data.
Textbooks
Course notes are provided.
PUBH5221 Qualitative Research Methods
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Susan Quine Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 x 2 day workshop Prerequisites: PUBH5031 or MIPH5132 Assessment: EITHER 1x2000wd theoretical essay assignment OR 1 practical reflective report (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit aims to extend participants' understanding of qualitative research methods and enable the acquisition of skills in the collection and analysis of qualitative data. The unit builds on the qualitative research methods introduced in the unit PUBH5031 Introductory Qualitative Methods or MIPH5132 Disease Priorities and Social Methods. It covers the relevance of qualitative methods to the investigation of health issues; non-probability sampling; observation - practical; interview technique - practical; focus groups - practical; introduction to basic data analysis and interpretation of text - theory and practical; how to speak to and interrogate qualitative data and how to write up and present qualitative data - theory and practical. During the 2 day interactive workshop, there will be opportunities for practical application of qualitative research techniques (observational activities, interviewing in pairs, simulated focus groups, data analysis). and for discussion of issues which arise when conducting qualitative research.
Textbooks
A manual of course notes and references are provided.
PUBH5414 Public Health Advocacy
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Simon Chapman Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 x 2day workshop Assessment: 1x letter to the editor of a newspaper (10%) and 1x 2000 word assignment (90%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit aims to familiarise students with the strategies of public health advocacy and to provide skills in content and discourse analysis of media coverage of health and medical issues. This unit covers the role of media advocacy in advancing public health policy; framing public health issues; news gathering, reporting and editing; strategies for media advocacy; political lobbying in public health advocacy. Teaching and learning activities include interactive lectures, case studies and small group work. Students will be expected to prepare for the sessions. Requirements will be distributed prior to the first day.
Textbooks
(recommended only)
PUBH5415 Injury Prevention
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Rebecca Ivers Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 x 2day workshop Assessment: 1 x 2000 word essay (90%) and participation in small group work during the workshop (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit aims to provide students with a clear understanding of the magnitude of the injury burden, both in higher and lower income countries, and the strategies that are required to address this burden. This unit will cover: injury definitions, measurement and surveillance; risk factor identification; intervention strategies and their evaluation; advocacy; cause-specific injury topics. During the 2 day workshop, guest speakers will outline issues relevant to the general injury prevention field and students will participate in interactive small group work which will focus on issues relevant to cause-specific injuries, in collaboration with guest contributors.
Textbooks
Students will be provided with a course manual. Recommended text: McClure R, Stevenson M, McEvoy S. The Scientific Basis of Injury Prevention and Control. Melbourne: IP Communications, 2004.
PUBH5416 Vaccines in Public Health
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Rob Menzies, Professor Peter McIntyre Session: Semester 2 Classes: Preparatory online lectures and 1x 2day workshop Assessment: 2x short online quizzes (10%) plus 1x 2000 word assignment (90%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Distance Education/Intensive on Campus
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students may be required to request permission from the unit of study coordinator to enrol in this unit of study. In this situation, the coordinator emails the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit advice that the student has permission to enrol.
The aim of this unit is to provide students with an understanding of immunisation principles, the impact of vaccination on the epidemiology of vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs), how to assess the need for new vaccines and how to implement and monitor a new vaccination program. This unit covers the history and impact of vaccination; basic immunological principles of immunisation; surveillance of diseases, vaccination coverage, vaccine effectiveness and adverse events; risk communication; assessing disease burden and new vaccines. Learning activities include short online preparatory lectures and a workshop with interactive lectures and small group case studies (please bring a calculator).
SEXH5008 Sex and Society
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Richard Hillman, Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Session: Semester 2b Classes: 2 hours of lectures per week, half semester, which can be taken either face-to-face or online. AusAID students must enrol into the face-to-face version Assessment: written assignment (50%), online discussion (30%), online quiz (20%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
This unit will explore the social, psychological and political determinants of sexuality, with particular reference to their potential impacts on public health. It is available in both online and face-to-face modes. Particular emphasis will be placed on the impact of culture, tradition, society, environment, life experiences, personal beliefs and health on sexual activity. Policy and legislative responses to sexual activity will be discussed, with regards to the consequences of sexual activity and methods for determining the effectiveness of such responses.Course content will include population studies on sexual behaviour; historical perspectives; variants of sexuality (including adolescence, prisoners, multicultural aspects, the elderly, disability, homosexuality and transgender issues); sexual dysfunction and counselling; commercial sex work; sex education; sexual assault, health promotion and ethical and legal aspects.
SEXH5101 Public Health Aspects of STDs
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Richard Hillman, Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Session: S2 Intensive,Semester 2a Classes: Semester 2a: 2 hours of lectures per week, half semester, which can be taken either face-to-face or online; Semester 2a Intensive: compulsory attendance at a teaching day in week 4 and attendance at 2 hours of lectures per week, half semester, taken face-to-face for 4 weeks Assessment: written assignment and online quizzes. Assessment: written assignment (50%) and online quizzes (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
This unit aims to provide a public health perspective of the community impact of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is available in both online and face to face modes. At the end of this unit, students will be able to understand the underlying principles of the surveillance systems used to monitor STIs; the core risk activity groups involved in the transmission of STIs; how the epidemiologies of STIs vary within and between societies; the public health impacts of STIs; and effective preventative strategies at individual and community levels. Course content will include an introduction to the basic biology of STIs; epidemiology and surveillance methods; STI service delivery considerations; STI/HIV interactions, travellers' sexual health; health promotion for STIs; policy approaches and ethical & legal issues.
SEXH5102 Public Health Aspects of HIV/AIDS
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Richard Hillman, Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Session: Semester 2b Classes: 2 hours of lectures per week, half semester, which can be taken either face-to-face or online. AusAID students must enrol in the face-to-face version. Assessment: written assignment (50%) and online quizzes (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
This unit aims to provide a public health perspective of the impact of HIV infection. It is available in both online and face to face modes. At the end of this unit, students will be able to understand the underlying principles of the surveillance systems used to monitor HIV infection; the core risk activity groups involved in the transmission of HIV; how the epidemiology of HIV infection varies within and between societies; the public health impacts of HIV infection; and effective prevention strategies. Course content will include an introduction to the basic science of HIV infection; epidemiology and surveillance; sexual blood borne and mother to child transmission; STI/HIV interactions; other methods of transmission; health promotion for HIV; government perspectives and ethical and legal issues.
SEXH5200 Advanced STIs
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Richard Hillman, Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Session: S1 Intensive,Semester 1 Classes: Semester 1: compulsory attendance at 3x1hr lectures and 1x1hr journal club per week; Semester 1 Intensive: compulsory attendance during week 4 and then compulsory attendance at 3 x 1hr lectures and 1 x 1hr journal club for 10 weeks Assessment: written examination (40%), short written discussion topics (15%), multiple choice quizzes (35%) and participation in journal clubs (10%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
This unit aims to describe the epidemiology, microbiology, pathogenesis, clinical features and management strategies for the common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). HIV infection will only be covered in the context of its interactions with other STIs.
At the end of this unit, students will be able to discuss the microbiology, pathogenesis and epidemiology of the common STIs. They will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the clinical spectrum of STIs, including asymptomatic infection, genital manifestations, extragenital manifestations and problems related to pregnancy. When discussing STI management, students will understand the impact of STIs at individual, relationship and community levels and how needs differ with risk activity group and geographical location.
Course content will include the basic anatomy, physiology and clinical skills required for the investigation of STIs; the epidemiology, microbiology and clinical aspects of the following conditions: vaginal discharge, urethral discharge, genital ulceration, upper genital tract infections, sexually transmitted hepatitis, syphilis, anogenital warts and cancer, genital infestations and other conditions likely to present in a sexual health context. The social contexts of STIs, in terms of the overcoming difficulties of access and the challenges faced in resource-poor settings will also be covered.
At the end of this unit, students will be able to discuss the microbiology, pathogenesis and epidemiology of the common STIs. They will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the clinical spectrum of STIs, including asymptomatic infection, genital manifestations, extragenital manifestations and problems related to pregnancy. When discussing STI management, students will understand the impact of STIs at individual, relationship and community levels and how needs differ with risk activity group and geographical location.
Course content will include the basic anatomy, physiology and clinical skills required for the investigation of STIs; the epidemiology, microbiology and clinical aspects of the following conditions: vaginal discharge, urethral discharge, genital ulceration, upper genital tract infections, sexually transmitted hepatitis, syphilis, anogenital warts and cancer, genital infestations and other conditions likely to present in a sexual health context. The social contexts of STIs, in terms of the overcoming difficulties of access and the challenges faced in resource-poor settings will also be covered.
SEXH5202 Advanced HIV Infection
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Dr Roger Garsia, Associate Professor Richard Hillman Session: S2 Intensive,Semester 2 Classes: Semester 2: compulsory attendance at 3x1hr lectures/week and 1x1hr journal club per week; Semester 2 Intensive: compulsory attendance at a teaching day in week 4 and attendance at 3 x 1hr lectures/week and 1 x 1hr journal club per week Assessment: written examination (40%), case-based discussions (10%), multiple choice quizzes (30%), participation in journal clubs (10%) and class presentations (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
This unit aims to describe the epidemiology, biology, pathogenesis and clinical contexts of HIV infection. At the end of this unit, students will be able to understand the laboratory, clinical and social aspects of the diagnosis and management of HIV infection. Course content will include underlying scientific principles of diagnostics, virology, immunology and pathogenesis as applicable to HIV infection; clinical aspects of HIV infection, including seroconversion, asymptomatic infection, early symptomatic disease, major opportunistic infections (including AIDS-related conditions), tumours and death. Emphasis will be placed on the roles of prophylaxis, antiretrovirals.and the management of associated conditions. Legal, ethical and sociological contexts will also be discussed.
SEXH5205 Advanced Adolescent Sexual Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Melissa Kang Session: Semester 2 Classes: fully online Prohibitions: SEXH5204 Assessment: continuous assessment including participation in group discussion, short answer questions, 1000 word assignments plus 2500 word essay or field report. Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit aims to introduce the constructs of adolescent sexuality, explore the determinants of adolescent sexual health and to discuss the personal and public health implications of adolescent sexuality, with additional emphasis on a deeper exploration of an area of adolescent sexual health that is of particular interest to the student.
At the end of this unit of study, students will be able to describe the biological, developmental and socio-cultural contexts of adolescent sexual health as well as the constructs, challenges and diversities of adolescent sexuality. They will learn techniques used to optimize communication with adolescents and explore legal, ethical and public health implications of adolescent sexuality. They will also understand and describe one area of adolescent sexual health that the student chooses to study in depth from a list of suggestions.
The course is taught fully online using a range of assessments including group discussion, short answer questions and discussions based on case scenarios. It is divided into 6 modules: adolescent sexuality, adolescent sexual health, reproductive health issues in adolescence, diversity, legal and ethical issues and sexual health promotion.
At the end of this unit of study, students will be able to describe the biological, developmental and socio-cultural contexts of adolescent sexual health as well as the constructs, challenges and diversities of adolescent sexuality. They will learn techniques used to optimize communication with adolescents and explore legal, ethical and public health implications of adolescent sexuality. They will also understand and describe one area of adolescent sexual health that the student chooses to study in depth from a list of suggestions.
The course is taught fully online using a range of assessments including group discussion, short answer questions and discussions based on case scenarios. It is divided into 6 modules: adolescent sexuality, adolescent sexual health, reproductive health issues in adolescence, diversity, legal and ethical issues and sexual health promotion.
SEXH5206 Diagnostic Methods in Sexual Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Richard Hillman, Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Session: Semester 1 Classes: Semester 1: blended online with a compulsory one week laboratory practical session towards the end of the course will compliment the online learning; Semester 1 Intensive: blended online - compulsory attendance at classes during week 4 and attendance at a compulsory one week laboratory practical session towards the end of the course Assessment: online quizzes (30%), case based presentations (20%), online discussion (10%) and a written exam (40%) at the end of the practicum Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: Distance Education/Intensive on Campus
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students who are not enrolled in the STD/HIV program through the Faculty of Medicine must apply to Associate Professor Richard Hillman for permission to enrol in this unit of study.
This unit aims to introduce the student to the common methods used in the diagnosis and management of infections with the common Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs), including HIV.
At the end of this unit, students will be able to understand the principles of Infection Control; methods used in diagnostic microbiology including specimen collection, storage and transport; specific diagnostic techniques and the interpretation of laboratory results; principle methods of detection for the following organisms: Chlamydia trachomatis, Candida albicans, genital mycoplasmas, Herpes simplex viruses, Human papillomaviruses, Molluscum contagiosum, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Treponema pallidum, Trichomonas vaginalis, tropical genital ulcerating conditions and genital ectoparasites. Students will also be able to discuss methods used and interpretation of Hepatitis serology; laboratory aspects of syndromic management of vaginal discharge, urethral discharge, rectal discharge and prostatism; the diagnosis and management of HIV infection; the diagnosis of HIV-related opportunistic infections and tumours, and genital cytological assessment.
Course content will include reading materials and exercises. A compulsory intensive one week face-to-face lab practicum allows students to consolidate their theoretical knowledge.
At the end of this unit, students will be able to understand the principles of Infection Control; methods used in diagnostic microbiology including specimen collection, storage and transport; specific diagnostic techniques and the interpretation of laboratory results; principle methods of detection for the following organisms: Chlamydia trachomatis, Candida albicans, genital mycoplasmas, Herpes simplex viruses, Human papillomaviruses, Molluscum contagiosum, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Treponema pallidum, Trichomonas vaginalis, tropical genital ulcerating conditions and genital ectoparasites. Students will also be able to discuss methods used and interpretation of Hepatitis serology; laboratory aspects of syndromic management of vaginal discharge, urethral discharge, rectal discharge and prostatism; the diagnosis and management of HIV infection; the diagnosis of HIV-related opportunistic infections and tumours, and genital cytological assessment.
Course content will include reading materials and exercises. A compulsory intensive one week face-to-face lab practicum allows students to consolidate their theoretical knowledge.
SEXH5207 STI/HIV Clinical Attachment
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Richard Hillman, Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 15 x half day sessions Corequisites: SEXH5200 and SEXH5202 Assessment: direct observation of clinical skills and case presentations Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit aims to provide students with clinical exposure to patients with the whole spectrum of sexually transmitted infections and HIV. At the end of this unit, students will be able to understand the basic clinical competences required for the management of people with sexual health problems and HIV infection; indications for special investigations such as colposcopy, laparoscopy, pelvic and scrotal ultrasound, endoscopy, fundoscopy for opportunistic infections and radiology including CT. Students from a science or policy background will be able to undertake equivalent relevant laboratory or field work.
Course content will include attendance at a minimum of 15 half day seminars in selected sexual health and HIV clinics and the observation of patient care (for Master of Medicine students). The emphasis is on exploring the foundations of good clinical practice, using an evidence-based approach. Opportunities are provided to observe clinical practice with STI and HIV patients. However, the course does not provide direct hands-on experience for students, and cannot be considered a substitute for on-the-job training for students who wish to acquire clinical competence in these areas. Master of Science students will undertake equivalent relevant laboratory or fieldwork attachments, together with some clinical exposure. Whenever possible, attachments will be tailored to complement the candidate's past experience. Areas covered will include skills in taking a medical, sexual and drug-using history; physical examination, including genital and anal examination; handling and interpretation of laboratory tests; basic microscopy, chemotherapy; patient education and basic counselling; contact tracing and appropriate referral.
Course content will include attendance at a minimum of 15 half day seminars in selected sexual health and HIV clinics and the observation of patient care (for Master of Medicine students). The emphasis is on exploring the foundations of good clinical practice, using an evidence-based approach. Opportunities are provided to observe clinical practice with STI and HIV patients. However, the course does not provide direct hands-on experience for students, and cannot be considered a substitute for on-the-job training for students who wish to acquire clinical competence in these areas. Master of Science students will undertake equivalent relevant laboratory or fieldwork attachments, together with some clinical exposure. Whenever possible, attachments will be tailored to complement the candidate's past experience. Areas covered will include skills in taking a medical, sexual and drug-using history; physical examination, including genital and anal examination; handling and interpretation of laboratory tests; basic microscopy, chemotherapy; patient education and basic counselling; contact tracing and appropriate referral.
SEXH5220 Thesis Development in STD/HIV
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Richard Hillman Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 x 1 hour lecture and 6 x 1 hour tutorial Prerequisites: Departmental permission required Assessment: presentation of research proposal (50%), written research proposal (50%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit aims to introduce students to the concepts underpinning the conduct of high quality biomedical research in the fields of STIs and HIV.
At the end of the Unit, students will be able to describe the components required to conduct high quality biomedical research in the fields of STIs and HIV, generate a relevant research proposal and complete an Ethics application. Students will not be expected to collect or analyse any data.
At the end of the Unit, students will be able to describe the components required to conduct high quality biomedical research in the fields of STIs and HIV, generate a relevant research proposal and complete an Ethics application. Students will not be expected to collect or analyse any data.
Textbooks
Notes will be made available via the Blackboard site.