This unit of study introduces students to human research ethics in its social context. It explores the philosophical underpinnings of the research endeavour including the justifications for engaging in research, research priorities and research integrity. The unit also reviews the history of research and the impact of research abuse on human participants. International and national guidelines for ethical research with humans will be covered and participants are encouraged to develop practical skills in relation to their own research.

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.

Immunology is the study of defence mechanisms that protect individuals against infections and cancers. Studies in immunology are leading to advances in clinical medicine, including understanding allergies, transplant rejection, cancer and autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and insulin-dependent diabetes, as well as the development of new vaccines. This unit of study will provide an understanding of the components and functions of the immune system at the molecular and cellular level, the mechanisms of pathological immune processes and immune system dysfunction, mechanisms of immune responses to microorganisms and immunological techniques used in clinical diagnostic and research laboratories.
The unit components will be delivered so as to develop skills in problem-solving, evaluation of scientific literature, and oral and written communication. Lectures will provide an overview of the immune system and an update of fundamental facts. Problem/case-based scenarios together with invited guest/specialized lectures, hands-on practical work, literature research and group discussions ('tutorials') will provide in-depth analysis of particular chosen topics.

This unit aims to equip graduates with an in-depth knowledge of medical virology and cell technology that will enable them to work effectively as laboratory personnel in relevant hospital laboratories, clinics or research institutions. Students will develop skills in evaluation of scientific literature, in problem-solving and in scientific communication that will enable them to develop careers as administrators or policy-makers in hospitals, health care organisations or government bodies. The core of the program is a series of lectures, given face-to-face and/or available online. Practical classes will focus on the identification of viruses and cell culture technology, and on techniques used in research investigations and will be conducted in an appropriately equipped student laboratory.

This unit of study aims to build on the student's basic knowledge of microbiology to provide an awareness of modern concepts and the latest knowledge of medical bacteriology relevant to the susceptibility and response of the host to pathogenic bacteria, with special emphasis on the host-pathogen relationship at the cellular and molecular levels regarding symptoms, virulence factors, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, control and prevention. The practical component will allow candidates to become familiar with modern molecular-based bacteriological techniques used to identify the characteristic genetic features of bacterial species that cause infections. The unit will provide the advanced scientific and intellectual basis to augment knowledge and understanding, at a postgraduate level, in a career involving medical microbiology or in a related subject area. Lectures will be used to impart knowledge and understanding as well as review key themes of the module. Tutorials will utilise activities such as journal review and topic presentation which enable develop their skills by presenting research on a range of issues including advances in knowledge on bacterial pathogenesis, identification and treatment in Australia and worldwide. The use of case studies will enable candidates to examine breakouts of disease and their investigation by the clinical laboratory. Laboratory sessions will enable students to apply the theoretical concepts of laboratory investigation at the molecular level using advanced molecular techniques of DNA, RNA and protein purification and analysis.

The unit aims to equip graduates to use hospital laboratory services and the research literature in the recognition of individual cases of communicable disease, trace the source of outbreaks and provide a scientific basis for development of institutional infection control policies. There are four specific learning objectives: to know how to estimate the risk of transmission of infection and to assess the value of control measures; to understand the methods used to determine the efficacy of antimicrobial drugs both for treating individual patients and in terms of policy guidelines; to understand the scientific basis of vaccination and its value and limitations in the field; to appreciate the human factors involved in achieving effective infection control. The core of the program is a series of lectures, practical classes and tutorials based on important current or historical examples of epidemic infectious diseases.

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.

This unit aims to provide an overview of common health issues and emerging travel-related diseases, with a general look at prevention and control of these problems for travellers or those intending to work in tropical or resource-poor settings for a significant period of time. Travel/public health regulations associated with outbreaks and disasters are also addressed. During the short course, students will also explore issues such as pre-travel preparations, protection from vector-borne diseases and vaccinations. The teaching method is face-to-face teaching. Attendance is compulsory.

This unit aims to provide an integrated and interpretive approach to an understanding of health-related behaviours of populations in international settings, by synthesizing anthropological knowledge and methodology, and the interactions of culture, biology, psychology and environment. The teaching process is by student-led, lecturer-guided, discussion based review and critical analysis of relevant topics. During the unit, students will explore a range of issues in global and multicultural health from an anthropological perspective. Methodological approaches will encompass ethnography and other anthropological data collection methods. The issues covered will include cultural influences on health, illness and healing, such as indigenous and traditional beliefs and systems, gender and cultural change and the impact of modernization and development on illness and healing. The impact examines disease and illness patterns - their distribution and persistence, mental illness and culture and attitudes towards the use of medications; and the provision of culturally sensitive and appropriate services. The emphasis will be on covering a range of topic areas relevant to the students enrolled, and those of particular importance in contemporary international and multicultural health contexts.

This unit offers a detailed and evidence-based assessment of the global HIV situation to equip students with the latest understanding of HIV distribution and trends globally, its social and economic implications, the measures being taken to prevent and treat HIV and AIDS, the gaps that need to be addressed in HIV control, and the politics around global HIV issues. Examples from different parts of the world, particularly less developed settings, are used to illustrate analysis of the key issues influencing the HIV control agenda globally. Emphasis is placed on developing a critical and analytical approach to assessing the HIV situation and developing interventions for its control.

The unit aims to provide candidates with a multidisciplinary perspective of the interplay between health and development in low- and middle-income countries from a range of social science and public health disciplines. The unit will cover the following themes: health and development, Millennium Development Goals, poverty and health, gender and health, culture and health, climate change and health, population ageing, public health advocacy, human rights and health, health systems, health policy, human resources for health, and primary health care. At the end of the unit, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the relation between health and development; demonstrate an understanding of how health systems and policies operate in developing countries; and demonstrate an understanding of the role played by the various international organisations and agencies in health in less developed settings.

Health systems are complex and multi-faceted. Successful health systems require attention to political economy, governance, institutions, and local context. This unit will cover health systems in developing countries to equip students with a conceptual understanding and a set of tools to address major public health challenges from a health systems perspective. With a focus on evidence-based decision making, the unit will provide an understanding of health systems including specific topics such as health workforce, financing, service delivery, information systems and policy, and how these impact health interventions and health status in less developed countries. A multi-sectoral, integrated model will be used to understand the varied aspects of development challenges related to health systems. A case study approach will then provide students with concrete examples of health systems challenges and will strengthen students' ability to view health problems in a holistic, multi-faceted manner. The unit will provide students with the tools needed to make a practical difference in health systems in less developed countries with emphasis on implementation of health projects and bringing interventions to scale.

This unit of study will examine and critique established and emerging ways of researching nursing and health care through discussion of the philosophical and theoretical origins of the research traditions and knowledge generation in nursing research. Conceptualisation of research questions, selection of research designs, governance of research and research utilisation in the clinical setting will be explored. Opportunities will be provided to engage in the research process with reference to clinically related situations.

The need for leadership across all clinical disciplines has been shown to be integral to safe practice and strong staff morale. Providing a clear and unambiguous framework for practice and fostering skills in moral stewardship are known to enable personal growth and strong clinical care. This unit explores a range of issues for clinicians including their legal and ethical obligations, concepts of accountability and collegiality, and strategies to increase resilience and emotional intelligence. It aims to equip nurses to take initiative, create supportive and sustaining clinical environments, have the courage of their convictions, and to celebrate curiosity.

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.

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.

This unit is designed to further develop concepts covered in the Epidemiological Methods Unit for those students seeking more detail on screening and diagnostic tests. It will cover a wider range of topics than clinical medicine alone. At the end of this unit, participants should be able to: 1. Understand the basic concepts of screening and diagnostic tests 2. Understand the sources of biases in diagnostic test evaluations 3. Critically appraise relevant articles on screening and diagnostic tests 4. Understand the principles and current approaches to population-based screening 5. Translation of current evidence of screening in clinical practice The unit is based on weekly discussion of material provided in the unit workbook, session outlines and pre-reading. Students will be encouraged to contribute examples for discussion. This unit is offered in online/distance mode primarily. Face-to-face tutorials may also be offered.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This unit will explore the social, psychological, public health and medical aspects of sexuality and common sexually transmissible infections including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Emphasis will be placed on the way in which they impact on society, present to clinical services, and can be prevented and effectively managed.
Students will develop an awareness of all aspects of sexual health, including the importance of multidisciplinary approaches and the sexual rights of all individuals. The potential geographic, societal, cultural and political challenges faced in the delivery of effective sexual health care will be discussed.
The unit will introduce students to inquiry based learning and develop an understanding of the importance of evidence based practice.

This unit will introduce students to the microskills, and basic theories of counselling in a sexual health setting. This unit of study has two parts: an online component and a face-to-face residential component. The face-to-face workshop will include an extension of online content and include a Sexual Attitudes Re-Assessment Seminar (SARS). The face-to-face workshop is compulsory.
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
(i) Demonstrate the application of microskills to interpersonal communication, professional communication and in a counselling context;
(ii) Apply basic counselling interventions in a sexual health context;
(iii) Critique the application of counselling and psychotherapy theories in sexual health settings;
(iv) Critique and discuss ethical issues in sexuality counselling;
(v) Demonstrate skills in taking a sexual history;
(vi) Demonstrate the ability to develop a basic management plan for an individual or couple based on best available research and clinical evidence; and
(vii) Develop a self-awareness of sexual attitudes.

Students will explore the application, practice and evidence base of a range of counselling techniques/models to sexual health settings. These will include: gender and sexual diversity issues, sexual dysfunction, pornography and sex addictions, and sexual abuse.
The unit of study will be conducted in two stages. Stage one is an online component and stage two is a compulsory face-to-face four-day workshop. During the workshop students will extend their knowledge and practice of counselling and psychotherapeutic interventions for sexual health concerns through role-plays, as well as participate in a Sexual Attitude Re-Assessment Seminar (SARS).
At the conclusion of this unit, students will be able to: (i) Apply a variety of counselling and/or psychotherapeutic techniques in addressing sexual health concerns; (ii) Critique the application of counselling and/or psychotherapeutic techniques in addressing sexual health concerns; (iii) Develop treatment/management plans for a variety of sexual health concerns; and (iv) Develop an awareness of sexual attitudes.

This unit will provide students an overview of current research on the biological and psychosocial factors that influence the sexual response throughout the lifecycle, and explore diagnostic criteria, aetiology and management of sexual dysfunctions.
At the end of the unit students will:
(i) Critically discuss the concept of 'normality' in sexual function and the biological and psychosocial factors that determine this.
(ii) Understand the male and female sexual response cycle and factors that affect this.
(iii) Demonstrate knowledge of classifications of male and female sexual dysfunctions and clinical presentations of each.
(iv) Be able to diagnose a range of common sexual dysfunctions.
(v) Be competent to interpret the evidence base for best practice in the management options for selected sexual dysfunctions and select those appropriate for specific individuals/couples.
(vi) Reflect on the application of best practice in the management of sexual dysfunctions as it fits in with their personal and professional context.
(vii) Demonstrate the ability to identify a research question in sexual function and dysfunction and develop a simple research project.

This course aims to provide students with an understanding of fertility, including hormonal and non-hormonal reversible contraceptive methods, emergency contraception and permanent methods of contraception. At the end of the unit students will be able to:
o Discuss the available options for controlling fertility, including hormonal and non-hormonal reversible contraceptive methods, emergency contraception and permanent methods of contraception.
o Understand the different reproductive health needs of women from adolescence through to menopause.
o Understand the consequences of unintended pregnancy and describe the options available to women; discuss the impact of unsafe abortion in an international context.
o Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of age, culture, tradition, society, personal beliefs, disability and health on contraceptive choices.
o Understand the effect of sexual violence on reproductive health.

This unit is the capstone unit for all students.
It provides students with an introduction to the essential practical competences in their specific stream. It emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of clinical practice excellence, within a framework of inquiry based learning and evidence based practice.
(i) Students from clinical backgrounds will be attached to sexual health and HIV clinics and observe or manage patient care under supervision for a total of 15 sessions (half days). Whenever possible, attachments will be tailored to complement the candidates' past clinical experience.
(ii) Students from Public Health and laboratory backgrounds will have relevant fieldwork or laboratory attachments, together with some clinical exposure.
(iii) Students from counseling backgrounds will explore the design and application of counseling interventions in supervised placements for a total of 80 hours.
The university will assist in locating clinical, laboratory and counseling placements.
In addition, students will work in inter-professional groups to reflect on their role in team management of HIV, STIs and Sexual Health, and learn how to develop a relevant research proposal.

This unit will provide the student with an understanding of the biological basis of sexual development from foetus to adulthood and the socio-cultural factors that determine their expression; sensitise the student to the terminology of gender discourse and an overview of the range of gender and sexual differences and practices in the community and associated psychosocial issues.
At the end of this unit students will be able to:
(i) Demonstrate an understanding of the terminology used in gender discourse.
(ii) Describe the biology of sexual development from fetus to adolescence and an understanding of the psychological and social factors that influence the process.
(iii) Describe syndromes of atypical sexual development and demonstrate an understanding of the medical, psychosocial and ethical concerns in the management.
(iv) Demonstrate an understanding of the biological, social and psychological factors that influence the expression of gender identity and sexual orientation in the community.
(v) Explore the Social and Psychological issues surrounding gender minorities in the community.
(vi) Discuss the social support systems and needs of gender minorities and their importance to wellbeing and quality of life.
(vii) Evaluate the legal and ethical concerns and problems faced by gender minorities in a global context.
(viii) Identify and prioritise research issues in the area of sex and gender.

Effective project management in HIV & STIs is an important contributor to the health and development objectives of developing countries. The unit aims to give students a good understanding of the concepts, methodologies and approaches of international health project management in HIV and STIs. It will provide an introduction to the Logical Framework Approach and give students an opportunity for hands-on practice through the design of a project in an international setting. Potential challenges to delivery will also be explored.

This course has been designed particularly to meet the needs of doctors and nurses working in sexual assault forensic medicine but may be applicable for other health professionals with an interest in this area. Basic clinical background information such as simple anatomy would be an advantage.
Adult sexual assault is not uncommon and requires a holistic medical and forensic response, including skilled forensic examination. This course will concentrate on the physical aspects of sexual assault and its sequelae within the context of acute trauma. It will provide the student with the background to performing a forensic medical examination, collection of specimens and reporting requirements required by investigating authorities and the Courts. On completion of this unit, the student will be able to describe the basic anatomy of the anogenital region of females and males; the range of genital and bodily injuries; and written, graphic and photographic documentation required. The student will be prepared for the process of specimen collection, maintaining the chain of evidence and issues related to obtaining valid consent. The processes used in the analysis of forensic evidence, including DNA and drug testing will be described, together with the use of prophylaxis, counselling and follow up testing for sexually transmissible infections and pregnancy. Development of court reports will be discussed. The psychosocial aspects of acute trauma and their role in management will also be described. The assessment tasks will enable students to embed their knowledge in the legal and cultural context of their own workplace.

This course will engage students in learning about evidence-based prevention and health promotion as a fundamental component of efforts to address sexual health. The unit is divided into three sections: (a) theories underlying disease prevention and health promotion, (b) evidence-based planning of campaigns and programs, and (c) health communications and designing messages.
Theories covered will include those that address individual-level change, and group and social level change. Students will learn how to conduct needs assessments, plan programs, and address priority areas.

This unit of study will explore the evidence base, implications and considerations when delivering sexual health and relationships education in school and community settings from both Australian and global perspectives.

This unit of study will engage students in learning about evidence-based prevention and health promotion as a fundamental component of efforts to address sexual health. The unit focuses on implementing and evaluating sexual health campaigns and programs.
Theories covered will include those that address individual-level change, and group and social level change. Students will learn how to evaluate programs to ensure effectiveness. Evaluation methodology will include research design and how to measure changes in sexual attitudes and behaviours. Emphasis will be placed on analysis and interpretation of evaluation of data, particularly with regards to how evaluation feeds into research and new intervention design. Effective implementation and dissemination to the scientific community & the broader public will also be critically discussed.

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.

See MEDF4001.

See MEDF4001.

See MEDF4001