Indigenous Health (Substance Use)
Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) (not open for new admissions in 2013)
(GradCertIndigH(SubUse)) KG012 or GCINHESU1000
Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) (not open for new admissions in 2013)
(GradDipIndigH(SubUse)) KF049 or GNINHESU1000
Master of Indigenous Health (Substance Use) (not open for new admissions in 2013)
(MIndigH(SubUse)) KC068 or MAINHESU1000
| Course | Credit points for award | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| GradCertIndigH(SubUse) | 24 | 0.5 to 1.5 years |
| GradDipIndigH(SubUse) | 36 | 1 to 2 years |
| MIndigH(SubUse) | 48 | 1 to 3 years |
Overview
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander professionals have a unique and important role in assisting their communities to reduce the burden of harm from alcohol, tobacco and other drug use. They can do this in many ways, including through clinical service delivery, policy and research. The Indigenous Health (Substance Use) program aims to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals with further skills and knowledge to work towards the prevention and treatment of misuse of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. The course was developed in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and other professionals and draws on national and international best practice in the prevention and treatment of substance misuse.
Course outcomes
The Indigenous Health (Substance Use) program aims to build the clinical, public health and academic capacity of Aboriginal and Torres Islander health professionals to work in the prevention and treatment of alcohol, tobacco and other drug disorders.
Further information
The graduate diploma is a one-year course run in block release mode. Students can apply to continue for an extra year of study to complete a master's degree. If a student is faced with unexpected external circumstances in their first year of study, they can choose to convert to the graduate certificate, which can be awarded after successfully completing four units of study (rather than the six units required for the graduate diploma).
After completing a graduate diploma, a student can apply to undertake the master's degree and, if accepted, will be given credit for the units of study completed in the graduate diploma.
For the graduate diploma, there are six blocks of face-to-face study at the University's Camperdown Campus, each of around one week's length. After each block, students have a series of learning tasks to do at home or in their workplace, amounting to 50 hours work (around 10 hours per week for five weeks).
Students who continue on to the master's degree undertake a further two units of study (12 credit points). Units of study that are available through the Master of Public Health program may be taken if approved by the course coordinator.
Further enquiries
Associate Professor Kate Conigrave
Phone: +61 2 9515 8650
Fax: +61 2 9515 5779
Email:
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 August 2012. 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:
sydney.edu.au/handbooks/medicine/
See the Policy Online website: sydney.edu.au/policy, for copies of University policies.
Master of Indigenous Health (Substance Use)
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 title |
|---|---|
| KG012 | Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) |
| KF049 | Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) |
| KC068 | Master of Indigenous Health (Substance Use) |
2 Attendance pattern
(1)
The attendance pattern for Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) is full-time in first semester and part-time in second semester (delivered in block release mode).
(2)
The attendance pattern for Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) is full-time only (delivered in block release mode).
(3)
The attendance pattern for Master of Indigenous Health (Substance Use) is full-time only in the first year (delivered in block release mode) and part-time thereafter.
3 Master's type
0.
The master's degree in these resolutions is a professional master's course, as defined by the Coursework Rule.
4 Embedded courses in this sequence
(2)
Providing 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 based on merit, according to the following admissions criteria.
(2)
Admission to the Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) or the Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) is restricted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders and requires:
(a)
a degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification for which the minimum time to qualify was at least three academic years;
(b)
evidence that the applicant has certificate III qualification plus at least two years work experience in a field deemed to be relevant to the prescribed courses of study in the subject matter of the award course;
(c)
at least five years working experience in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, including experience in engaging individuals and/or communities in action to improve their health.
(b)
demonstrated knowledge of and sensitivity to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;
(c)
support for his/her candidature from his/her community and, where relevant, from his/her employer; and
(b)
the support for his/her candidature from his/her community and, where relevant, from his/her employer; and
6 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: Indigenous Health (Substance Use).
(2)
To qualify for the award of the Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) a candidate must successfully complete 24 credit points of core units of study.
(3)
To qualify for the award of the Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health (Substance Use) a candidate must successfully complete 36 credit points of core units of study.
(4)
To qualify for the award of the Masters of Indigenous Health (Substance Use) a candidate must successfully complete 48 credit points, including:
7 Transitional provisions
Table of units of study: Indigenous Health (Substance Use)
| Unit of study | Credit points | A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition | Session |
|---|---|---|---|
Core units (not available in 2013) |
|||
| Core units for graduate certificate students are IHSU5001, IHSU5002, IHSU5003 and IHSU5004 | |||
| IHSU5001 Non-dependent Alcohol Use Disorders This unit of study is not available in2013 |
6 | Int February |
|
| IHSU5002 Alcohol Dependence and Withdrawal This unit of study is not available in2013 |
6 | C IHSU5001 |
Int March |
| IHSU5003 Cannabis, Tobacco and Depression This unit of study is not available in2013 |
6 | C IHSU5002 |
Int May |
| IHSU5004 Opioids and Injecting Drug Use This unit of study is not available in2013 |
6 | C IHSU5003 |
Int July |
| IHSU5005 Amphetamines, Polydrug Use and Psychosis This unit of study is not available in2013 |
6 | P IHSU5001 and IHSU5002 C IHSU5004 |
Int Sept |
| IHSU5006 Substance Use Across the Lifespan This unit of study is not available in2013 |
6 | C IHSU5005 |
Int October |
Elective units |
|||
| HPOL5000 Introduction to Health Policy |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| HPOL5003 Analysing Health Policy |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| MEDF5005 Health Research Methods and Ethics |
6 | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
|
| PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses |
6 | N BSTA5011 |
Semester 1 |
| PUBH5017 Public Health Program Evaluation |
6 | P PUBH5010 and PUBH5018 and PUBH5032 and PUBH5033 |
Semester 2 |
| PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PUBH5033 Disease Prevention and Health Promotion |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PUBH5101 Special Project in Public Health |
4 |
Note: Department permission required for enrolment Students negotiate with a public health staff member to be their supervisor on an agreed project. The student or supervisor informs the Unit co-ordinator, who emails the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit permission to allow the student to enrol. |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
| PUBH5102 Special Project in Public Health |
2 |
Note: Department permission required for enrolment Students negotiate with a public health staff member to be their supervisor on an agreed project. The student or supervisor informs the Unit co-ordinator, who emails the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit permission to allow the student to enrol. |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
| PUBH5114 Alcohol, Drug Use and Health |
4 | N PUBH5115 |
Semester 2 |
| PUBH5115 Alcohol, Drug Use and Health |
2 | N PUBH5114 |
Semester 2a |
| PUBH5118 Indigenous Health Promotion |
4 | Semester 2b |
|
| PUBH5414 Public Health Advocacy |
2 | Int Sept |
|
| PUBH5415 Injury Prevention |
2 | Int October |
|
| PUBH5418 Tobacco Control in the 21st Century |
6 | Int August |
|
| SEXH5008 Sex and Society |
2 |
AusAID students must enrol in the face-to-face version |
Semester 1b Semester 2b |
| SEXH5101 Public Health Aspects of STIs |
2 |
AusAID students must enrol in the face-to-face version. |
Semester 1a Semester 2a |
| SEXH5102 Public Health Aspects of HIV/AIDS |
2 |
AusAID students must enrol in the face-to-face version |
Semester 1b Semester 2b |
| SEXH5200 Advanced STIs |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| SEXH5202 Advanced HIV Infection |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| SEXH5205 Advanced Adolescent Sexual Health |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
Units of study descriptions for 2013
IHSU5001 Non-dependent Alcohol Use Disorders
This unit of study is not available in 2013
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kate Conigrave, Dr Kylie Lee, Mr Shane Hearn Session: Int February Classes: block mode (7.5 weekdays), followed by 50 hours of self-directed learning at home Assessment: 1 x written assignment (55%), 1 x oral presentation (15%), tutorial participation and class attendance (20%), open book quiz - sciences (formative assessment) (10%), required reflective report (formative assessment) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit looks at substance use and misuse in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) communities: its cultural and historical background, the scientific basis of addiction, its causes and how common it is (epidemiology). Students are introduced to the physical, psychological and psychiatric complications of alcohol use. They will examine and critically consider approaches to prevent substance misuse and also early intervention and harm reduction measures. Both the clinical and public health settings will be examined. In this block we will provide examples focusing on non-dependent alcohol use. Case-based learning will draw on students' professional experience in the drug and alcohol field. In addition, students will be expected to draw on their cultural knowledge to develop their drug and alcohol client assessment and responses to substance misuse. Students will analyse their community setting and explore the role of the Indigenous drug and alcohol professional in providing drug and alcohol prevention, brief intervention and harm reduction to individuals and communities.
Textbooks
Ministerial Council on Drugs Strategy. National Drug Strategy: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Complementary Action Plan 2003-2006. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia; 2003.
IHSU5002 Alcohol Dependence and Withdrawal
This unit of study is not available in 2013
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kate Conigrave, Dr Kylie Lee, Mr Shane Hearn Session: Int March Classes: block mode (5 days) followed by 50 hours of self-directed learning at home Corequisites: IHSU5001 Assessment: 1 x written assignment (42%), tutorial participation and class attendance (20%), completion of clinical placement and related written tasks (28%), open book quiz (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit builds clinical skills, understanding of science and addiction, community measures to address alcohol misuse and other professional development from Block 1. Students will apply this learning to alcohol dependence ('alcoholism') and withdrawal in individuals and its impact on communities. Clinical assessment tools and evidence-based management methods will be explored in a cultural context. Mental health disorders linked to alcohol misuse will also be examined. The unit aims to improve students' skills in preventing relapse, including counseling approaches, referral to appropriate services and understanding the role of medications to reduce the risk of relapse in alcohol dependence (pharmacotherapies). Students will develop their skills in writing a case management plan. After the block students will organise a half-day clinical placement in a drug and alcohol service.
Textbooks
Ministerial Council on Drugs Strategy. National Drug Strategy: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Complementary Action Plan 2003-2006. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia; 2003
IHSU5003 Cannabis, Tobacco and Depression
This unit of study is not available in 2013
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kate Conigrave, Dr Kylie Lee, Mr Shane Hearn Session: Int May Classes: block mode (5 days), followed by 50 hours of self-directed learning at home Corequisites: IHSU5002 Assessment: 1 x written assignment (70%), tutorial participation and class attendance (20%), open book quizes (10%), required (formative) clinical skills assessment (formative). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit looks at how common are cannabis, tobacco and related harms (epidemiology) in Indigenous Australian communities, as well as their impact and the science behind each of these substances (pharmacology). The link between cannabis use and depression and other psychiatric conditions will be explored. The nature and treatment of depression is examined, particularly in cannabis users. At the public health level, this unit focuses on policy and how it influences drug and alcohol programs at the local level and impacts on drug and alcohol health status on Indigenous Australians. Students will look at strategies to reduce smoking and cannabis related harm in individuals and communities. The health professional's role in influencing policy and programs in culturally secure ways will also be explored and applied to cannabis and tobacco policies.
Textbooks
Nutbeam, D. and Harris, E. (2006). Theory in a Nutshell: A Practical Guide to Health Promotion Theories. McGraw-Hill.
IHSU5004 Opioids and Injecting Drug Use
This unit of study is not available in 2013
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kate Conigrave, Dr Kylie Lee, Mr Shane Hearn Session: Int July Classes: block mode (5 days), followed by 50 hours of self-directed learning at home Corequisites: IHSU5003 Assessment: written assignment (54%), tutorial participation and class attendance (20%), clinical placement and related tasks (16%), participation in formative open book quizzes (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit develops students' skills in assessment and management of clients with opioid dependence. The role of opioid maintenance medicines (pharmacotherapies) such as methadone and the prevention and management of blood borne virus infections from injecting drug use will be examined, together with other harm reduction initiatives. Clinical assessment and management skills will be further developed. Communication skills will be explored and applied. Ways of advocating for change in the community and influencing policy are considered. After the block students will organise a half-day clinical placement in a drug and alcohol service.
Textbooks
Latt, N., Conigrave, K., et al. (2009). Addiction medicine. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
IHSU5005 Amphetamines, Polydrug Use and Psychosis
This unit of study is not available in 2013
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kate Conigrave, Dr Kylie Lee, Mr Shane Hearn Session: Int Sept Classes: block mode (5 days), followed by 50 hours of self-directed learning at home Prerequisites: IHSU5001 and IHSU5002 Corequisites: IHSU5004 Assessment: 1 x written assignment (52%), 1 x oral presentation on the assignment (18%), tutorial participation and class attendance (20%), participation in formative assessment quizzes (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit looks at substance use across the lifespan from during pregnancy (foetal development) through childhood and onto adulthood. It explores factors that can contribute to cycles of alcohol, tobacco and other drug disorders across generations (trans-generational) and how to break these cycles. Use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs in pregnancy and approaches to prevent foetal harm will also be examined. Clinical skills will focus on how to prevent, assess and manage benzodiazepine dependence and solvent misuse. Professional writing and speaking skills developed throughout the course will be further refined.
Textbooks
Latt, N., Conigrave, K., et al. (2009). Addiction medicine. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
IHSU5006 Substance Use Across the Lifespan
This unit of study is not available in 2013
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kate Conigrave, Dr Kylie Lee, Mr Shane Hearn Session: Int October Classes: block mode (5 days), followed by 50 hours of self-directed learning at home Corequisites: IHSU5005 Assessment: written assignments (70%), tutorial participation (20%), open book quiz (including clinical competencies) (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit of study explores substance use through the lifespan of the individual from foetal development through to adulthood. It explores the factors which can contribute to trans-generational cycles of alcohol, tobacco and other drug disorders in Indigenous families. A focus on research and evaluation aims to integrate the learning from previous units to further develop an understanding of the importance of research in all aspects of drug and alcohol education, clinical practice and health promotion. The unit explores approaches and methods used in public health-oriented drug and alcohol research. It incorporates a framework of research and evaluation that will enable students to design a simple descriptive study. Use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs in pregnancy and approaches to prevention of foetal harm will be examined. Clinical skills development will address prevention, assessment and management of benzodiazepine dependence and solvent misuse.
Textbooks
Latt, N., Conigrave, K., et al. (2009). Addiction medicine. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
HPOL5000 Introduction to Health Policy
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Marie Thow & Professor Stephen Leeder Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 x 2-day workshops, online lectures and discussions Assessment: 1 x 1500wd written assignment (30%); 1 x 3000wd written assignment (50%); Online learning quiz (5%); online problem based learning exercise (15%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Distance Education/Intensive on Campus
To develop a critical and comparative understanding of the history, theory and practice of health policy. To give an overview of the political choices and frameworks - national and global - that shape policymaking.
Learning objectives:
- acquire a critical understanding of the basic history and features of the Australian health system
- understand the main frameworks used to analyse and make policy
- understand the main issues in the translation of policy into practice
- demonstrate the capacity to apply these understandings in particular settings through case studies.
Content:
This unit explores the main structures and institutions that make health policy. The unit examines debates over policy frameworks, and the evidence and advocacy in setting priorities. Conflicts over health policy will be placed in broader contexts - comparing different health systems and assessing global influences. Case studies will be used to examine the relationships between policy and practice.
Learning objectives:
- acquire a critical understanding of the basic history and features of the Australian health system
- understand the main frameworks used to analyse and make policy
- understand the main issues in the translation of policy into practice
- demonstrate the capacity to apply these understandings in particular settings through case studies.
Content:
This unit explores the main structures and institutions that make health policy. The unit examines debates over policy frameworks, and the evidence and advocacy in setting priorities. Conflicts over health policy will be placed in broader contexts - comparing different health systems and assessing global influences. Case studies will be used to examine the relationships between policy and practice.
Textbooks
Buse K, Mays N, Walt G (2005). Making health policy. Open University Press: London.
HPOL5003 Analysing Health Policy
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor James Gillespie, Professor Stephen Leeder Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 x two day workshops plus online discussions Assessment: 1x2500 word assignment (50%), 1x3000 word assignment (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Distance Education/Intensive on Campus
To develop skills for the effective critical appraisal of health policy. To familiarize students with the principles, and limitations, of evidence-based health policy and a broader understanding of its political context.
Learning objectives:
- to develop critical appraisal skills to critique the research that underpins policy
- to identify and analyse the main influences on policy development
- to evaluate existing policy frameworks and processes in relation to evidence, political context and broader community values
Content:
This unit builds policy analysis and analytical skills by exploring policy design, implementation and evaluation.
It looks at the methods and limitations of evidence-based health policy and the problems of integrating equity concerns when developing and applying health policy.
The workshops focus on using and critiquing epidemiological and social science literature to understand and build the evidence base for policy, and on understanding the political and social contexts in which agendas are set and policies implemented.
Learning objectives:
- to develop critical appraisal skills to critique the research that underpins policy
- to identify and analyse the main influences on policy development
- to evaluate existing policy frameworks and processes in relation to evidence, political context and broader community values
Content:
This unit builds policy analysis and analytical skills by exploring policy design, implementation and evaluation.
It looks at the methods and limitations of evidence-based health policy and the problems of integrating equity concerns when developing and applying health policy.
The workshops focus on using and critiquing epidemiological and social science literature to understand and build the evidence base for policy, and on understanding the political and social contexts in which agendas are set and policies implemented.
Textbooks
Buse K, Mays N, Walt G (2005). Making health policy. Open University Press: London.
MEDF5005 Health Research Methods and Ethics
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Timothy Schlub and Prof Petra Macaskill Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 2x in person interactive full day workshops, 4x in person 3hr tutorials, 5x online lectures and discussions, 2x online elective module readings Assessment: 1x study design and ethics assignment (30%), 1x statistics assignment (40%), 1x online self-study elective task (10%), 1x reflective essay (diary) for students conducting a research project or a critical appraisal of published research otherwise (20%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Distance Education/Intensive on Campus
This unit of study introduces students to the fundamental skills that are required for postgraduate research in medicine and health. Students will learn how to conduct research that is scientifically and ethically sound, and be able to critically appraise and review literature. Students will understand the strengths and limitations of common study designs and develop simple but important statistical analysis skills, including how to present and interpret data, basic data management skills, and how to determine the required sample size for a study. Obtaining ethics approval is necessary for any study involving the collection or analysis of data involving humans, animals or their tissues. Hence, this unit will also cover ethics in research and when and how to apply for ethics approval.
These fundamental skills promote a scholarly attitude towards knowledge and understanding, and are essential for engagement with the research community.
These fundamental skills promote a scholarly attitude towards knowledge and understanding, and are essential for engagement with the research community.
PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x 1hr lecture and 1x 2hr tutorial per week for 13 weeks - lectures and tutorials may be completed online Prohibitions: BSTA5011 Assessment: 1x 4page assignment (30%) and 1x 2.5hr 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 Second Edition: Cambridge University Press 2011.
PUBH5017 Public Health Program Evaluation
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Adrian Bauman, Dr Philayrath Phongsavan Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 hr lecture x 10 weeks Prerequisites: PUBH5010 and PUBH5018 and PUBH5032 and PUBH5033 Assessment: Two short assignments during the course (each around 1000 words) (2x17.5%) 1x2500-3000wd assignment (35%) and online discussion and participation (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
This unit of study is taught online and face to face in alternate years [it is face to face in the odd numbered years eg. 2013, and online format in the even numbered years]. The aims and content of the unit are to develop skills in public health and health promotion program planning, evaluation and research. There is an emphasis on programs that address chronic disease prevention and health promotion, but other broad public health content areas will also be used as examples. The course goal is to understand program evaluation from a public health practice and research methodological perspective. The course will complement other courses in epidemiology or qualitative research methods, in bringing these together around assessing population-level program effects. The unit comprises five modules of work, including: principles of public health program (PHP) evaluation; research designs and methodological issues for PHP Evaluation; measurement issues in assessing public health programs; analysis and interpretation of PHP evaluation data, and research translation and dissemination. The work in this unit is divided into the five modules, and will include weekly student preparation and presentation of materials in both on-line and face-to-face formats. Students must have uninterrupted access to the internet [for on line] or be able to attend all interactive sessions [face to face format] in order to undertake the unit, as the course uses a sequential learning process to build evaluation skills and expertise.
Textbooks
Recommended: Bauman A, Nutbeam D. Evaluation in a Nutshell. McGraw Hill Sydney (2nd Edition, 2013).
PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kevin McGeechan and 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.
PUBH5033 Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Philayrath Phongsavan Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3 workshops, face-to-face tutorials and online discussion; fully online version available Assessment: 1x1500 word assignment (25%); 1x2500 word assignment (45%); online discussion participation (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode or On-line
This core unit of study will provide students with an introduction to and critical overview of evidence-based prevention and health promotion as a fundamental component of efforts to address chronic disease prevention and reduce health inequalities in populations. The unit is divided into three sections: (i) principles underlying disease prevention and health promotion, (ii) evidence-based planning disease prevention and health promotion programs, and (iii) implementing and evaluating health promotion programs for disease prevention. The unit will illustrate the principles of prevention and health promotion programs in Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations. It will develop students' skills in: identifying problems and setting prevention priorities; planning and implementing programs, and; evaluating the impact of programs on population health. The unit will address diverse disease prevention and health promotion programs, including individual change programs, interpersonal (family, social networks), organisational (worksites, primary care), and community-wide programs. Students will develop an understanding of approaches used to enhance inter-sectoral action, community participation and consultation, the development of partnerships and the use of policy and advocacy. These approaches will be particularly applied to Indigenous health promotion settings.
Textbooks
Course Readings Provided
PUBH5101 Special Project in Public Health
Credit points: 4 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Assessment: 1x 4000 word written report (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students negotiate with a public health staff member to be their supervisor on an agreed project. The student or supervisor informs the Unit co-ordinator, who emails the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit permission to allow the student to enrol.
The aim of this unit is to systematically complete a self-directed project in one of the main content areas of the course. Students should contact an academic staff member associated with the area of their project and negotiate the details of the project design and the method and frequency of contact with the supervisor during the project.
PUBH5102 Special Project in Public Health
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Assessment: 1x 2000 word written report (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students negotiate with a public health staff member to be their supervisor on an agreed project. The student or supervisor informs the Unit co-ordinator, who emails the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit permission to allow the student to enrol.
The aim of this unit is to systematically complete a self-directed project in one of the main content areas of the course. Students should contact an academic staff member associated with the area of their project and negotiate the details of the project design and the method and frequency of contact with the supervisor during the project.
PUBH5114 Alcohol, Drug Use and Health
Credit points: 4 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Carolyn Day Session: Semester 2 Classes: 13 weeks of 1hr teaching sessions and/or associated readings and online activities. The teaching sessions are a combination of one day face to face workshop and online seminars. Students not able to attend face to face sessions can do the entire course online. Prohibitions: PUBH5115 Assessment: 2 x 1500 word assignments (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 prevention and management of related problems. This fuller drug and alcohol elective covers all the content of PUBH5115 and goes on to assist the student to develop more advanced skills in research and in management of clinical services in relation to alcohol and drug use disorders, and to examine the needs of special populations.
Textbooks
Readings are available on the unit's eLearning site.
PUBH5115 Alcohol, Drug Use and Health
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Carolyn Day 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 eLearning site.
PUBH5118 Indigenous Health Promotion
Credit points: 4 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Clive Aspin Session: Semester 2b Classes: 1 x 2day workshop, 7 weeks x 2 hr lectures Assessment: 1 x 2000 word essay (70%), workshop and class participation (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Despite the many positive political, social and legal advances that have taken place in Australian society, it is impossible to ignore the fact after more than 200 years of colonisation, the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous health outcome continues to be unacceptably wide. Using a health promotion framework, the unit will provide students with an opportunity to increase their understanding of the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It is hoped that students will utilise this understanding to develop more congenial and productive relations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the community, and within the spheres of their chosen professions. During the unit students are encouraged to examine factors that determine health, to analyse the major factors that influence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes, and the relationship between these factors. The course will provide opportunities to discuss and identify strategies to address the health disparities between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.
Textbooks
Course reader will be provided.
PUBH5414 Public Health Advocacy
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Simon Chapman Session: Int Sept Classes: 1 x 2 day 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: Int October 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.
PUBH5418 Tobacco Control in the 21st Century
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Simon Chapman Session: Int August Classes: 1x3 day workshop of lectures and problem-focused discussions, followed by 4 weeks of problem-based online discussions Assessment: 2x 2000 word essays (60%), 1x 100 item online quiz (10%) and online discussion and participation (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Distance Education/Intensive on Campus
The unit consists of learning topics, each of which is supported by extensive Web based resources, and 4 moderated online discussion forums, each focusing on a problem related to tobacco use and control. Lecture topics include: history of tobacco use and control; the burden of illness from tobacco use; secondhand smoke: the research evidence; measuring tobacco use, uptake and cessation in communities; international trends in tobacco consumption; the tobacco industry; the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and new forms of tobacco advertising and promotion. Problem focused discussion forums include: Harm reduction and tobacco control, regulation of tobacco, improving and implementing pack warnings; promoting smoking cessation, prevention of uptake (youth programs); denormalisation of the tobacco industry; controlling advertising; and controlling exposure to tobacco smoke, making news on tobacco and influencing political policy on tobacco.
Textbooks
(recommended only)
SEXH5008 Sex and Society
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anthony Santella Session: Semester 1b,Semester 2b Classes: Semester 1b is online only; Semester 2b :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 (70%), online quiz (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: AusAID students must enrol in the face-to-face version
This unit will explore determinants of sexuality from a societal perspective, with particular reference to their potential impacts on public health. It is available in both online and face-to-face modes. Social science theories of sexuality will be considered, and cross-cultural and historical accounts of sexual practices will be reviewed. Particular emphasis will be placed on the impact of diversity, culture, society, environment, life experiences, personal beliefs and health on sexual activity and potential Public Health impacts such as the spread of STIs & HIV. Course content will include diversity; adolescence sexual development; sex education; sexual assault, gender; sexual orientation and sexual behaviour.
SEXH5101 Public Health Aspects of STIs
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anthony Santella Session: Semester 1a,Semester 2a Classes: Session 1a online only.
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 5 and attendance at 2 hours of lectures per week, half semester, taken face-to-face for 3 weeks Assessment: written assignment (70%) and online quizzes (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode or On-line or Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: AusAID students must enrol in the face-to-face version.
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, impact of vulnerable at-risk populations; health promotion for STIs; policy approaches and ethical & legal issues.
SEXH5102 Public Health Aspects of HIV/AIDS
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anthony Santella Session: Semester 1b,Semester 2b Classes: Session 1b online only. Session2b: 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 (70%) and online quizzes (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
Note: AusAID students must enrol in the face-to-face version
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: Semester 1 Classes: Semester 1: compulsory attendance at 3x1hr lectures and 1x1hr journal club per week; Semester 1 Intensive: compulsory attendance during week 5 and then compulsory attendance at 3 x 1hr lectures and 1 x 1hr journal club for 9 weeks Assessment: written examination (40%), short written discussion topics (15%), multiple choice quizzes (35%), journal club (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, genital dermatology and other conditions likely to present in a sexual health context. Issues related to difficulties of access to treatment 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, genital dermatology and other conditions likely to present in a sexual health context. Issues related to difficulties of access to treatment 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: Semester 2 Classes: Semester 2 Normal: compulsory attendance at 3x1hr lectures/week and 1x1hr journal club per week; Semester 2 Intensive: compulsory attendance at a teaching day in week 5 and attendance at 3 x 1hr lectures/week and 1 x 1hr journal club for 9 weeks. Assessment: written examination (40%), case-based discussions (10%), multiple choice quizzes (30%), journal club (10%) and class presentations (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Block Mode or 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 social contexts will also be discussed.
SEXH5205 Advanced Adolescent Sexual Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Melissa Kang Session: Semester 2 Classes: fully online 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.