Public Health
Errata
| Item | Errata | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1. |
The following units are missing from the Part 2 Electives: HPOL5001 Health Systems and Financing HPOL5003 Analysing Health Policy |
25/1/2019 |
Public Health
Core units
Part-time students generally take 12 credit points of core units of study in each of their 1st and 3rd semesters.
PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Erin Mathieu, Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x 1hr lecture and 1x 2hr tutorial per week for 13 weeks - face to face or their equivalent online Prohibitions: BSTA5011 or CEPI5100 Assessment: 1x 6 page assignment (25%), 10 weekly quizzes (5% in total) and 1x 2.5hr supervised open-book exam (70%). For distance students, it may be possible to complete the exam externally with the approval of the course coordinator. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening, Online
This unit provides students with core skills in epidemiology, particularly the ability to critically appraise public health and clinical epidemiological research literature regarding public health and clinical issue. 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. In addition to formal classes or their on-line equivalent,it is expected that students spend an additional 2-3 hours at least each week 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 2017.
PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kevin McGeechan, Dr Erin Cvejic 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: Weekly quizzes (10%), 1x4 page assignment (20%), 1 x 1hr online test (20%) and 1x1.5hr open-book exam (50%). For distance students it may be possible to complete the exam externally with the approval of the course coordinator. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening, Online
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: A/Professor Philayrath Phongsavan, James Kite Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3 half-day workshops, 9 face-to-face tutorials or online discussion; fully online version available Assessment: 1x1500 word assignment (25%); 1 presentation (15%); 1 x 2500 word assignment (50%); tutorial participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This core unit of study introduces students to evidence-based health promotion as a fundamental approach to promoting and improving health and well being, preventing disease and reducing health inequalities in populations. The unit is divided into three modules: (i) the building blocks of disease prevention and health promotion, (ii) using evidence to develop disease prevention and health promotion interventions, and (iii) evaluating disease prevention and health promotion programs to inform policy and practice. This unit will give students an understanding of disease prevention and health promotion and their relationship to public health, introduce design, implementation, and evaluation of disease prevention and health promotion interventions, and develop and refine students' research, critical appraisal, and communication skills.
Textbooks
Course Readings Provided
PUBH5036 Public Health: Critical Challenges
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Suzanne Plater, Professor Angus Dawson Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: face-to-face students 1 x 2 day workshop + 1 x 3 day workshop; participation assessable online students 1 x 7 day tutorial and online discussion + 1 x 10 day tutorial and online discussion; equivalent to workshop; participation assessable Assessment: workshop and online participation 5% 1 x online quiz 15% 1 x 1500 word essay 30% 1 x 3500 word essay 50% Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This unit introduces you to the theoretical and practical underpinnings of public health via a diverse range of case studies. Together we will critically analyse what public health is and what it seeks to achieve. We will explore key concepts that will be taken up in more detail in other core and elective units, challenge current orthodoxies, and seek to develop a reflective and analytical approach to public health practice and research. We will have a particular focus on exploring the health and well-being challenges experienced by indigenous peoples, migrants and other disadvantaged groups, in Australia and globally. We will do this through considering the meaning of evidence and the historical and contemporary public health context, with the aim of working together to identify ethical, innovative and effective solutions. Throughout this unit you will be encouraged to interact with your unit coordinators, tutors and fellow students, ask questions, and respectfully debate answers to questions such as: What is public health? What does it mean to think beyond the social determinants? What is equity and why does it matter?
Textbooks
None, readings provided
PUBH5505 Qualitative Research in Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Julie Mooney-Somers Session: Semester 2 Classes: bm: 2x2 full day workshop + 1x1 full day workshop ol: 12xweekly online lectures + activities Prohibitions: PUBH5500 or QUAL5005 or QUAL5006 Assessment: 1xinterviewing activity(35%); 1x2000-word essay(35%); multiple choice quizzes(20%); 12xparticipation activities(10%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This unit of study introduces you to qualitative research in health, providing you with core concepts and skills. It is designed for beginners and people who want an advancedlevel introduction. Over the course of the unit we will address: What is qualitative research? How is it different from quantitative research? What is its history? What research problems can it address? How do I design a qualitative study? What are the different (and best) ways to generate data? How do you analyse qualitative data? Is methodology different to method? What are ontology and epistemology? What is reflexivity (and aren't qualitative researchers biased)? What are the ethical issues? What is good quality qualitative research? How can I use qualitative evidence in policy or practice? You will get practical experience and skills through carrying out an observation, participating in a focus group, conducting an interview, analysing data, arguing for qualitative research in health, and appraising the quality of published literature. You will hear from working qualitative researchers about how they use qualitative methods in their work. This unit will give you the skills and confidence to begin conducting and using qualitative research.
HPOL5000 Health Policy and Health Economics
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Marie Thow, A/Prof Alison Hayes Session: Semester 1 Classes: online students: week by week online activities including online lectures and/or videos, 6 interactive tutorials with online content via discussion boards, interactive reading (approx 10 hours per week)
block mode students: 2 x 1 day workshops plus 6 interactive tutorials (either face to face or online) with online lectures and/or videos (approx 10 hours per week) Prohibitions: PUBH5032 Assessment: assessable tutorials (30%) multiple choice online exam, 2 hr, open book (30%) 6 short reports (300-500 words each) on health policy and health economic evaluation, submitted online (40%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This unit aims to develop a critical and comparative understanding of the history, theory and practice of health policy as well as provide students with an understanding of the main concepts and analytical methods of health economics and political economy. It gives an overview of the political choices and frameworks that shape decision making in health. By the end of this unit students will be able to: Define the boundaries and key features of health policy; Identify policy instruments and how they function; Understand the main frameworks used for analysing health policy, and different approaches and perspectives regarding setting priorities in health policy; Apply methods and principles of health economics e.g. resource scarcity, opportunity cost, efficiency and equity to practical real-life examples; Critically analyse the role of economic evidence in informing policy decisions in health decision-making in Australia.
Textbooks
Recommended: Buse, K, Mays, N and Walt, G. Making Health Policy (2nd Ed). Open University Press, 2012. Copies of the text are available in the University of Sydney library. Readings are available on the unit's eLearning site
Additional core units of study for Masters students
Graduate Diploma students may enrol in this unit of study as a Part 1 elective.
PUBH5134 Public Health Capstone
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Gemma Jacklyn Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 1 x half-day workshop face-to-face and online students (synchronous and asynchronous options available) 3 x one hour tutorials face-to-face students and online students (synchronous and asynchronous options available) meetings with topic leaders as needed/arranged Prerequisites: PUBH5010 AND PUBH5018 AND PUBH5005 AND HPOL5000 AND PUBH5036 Prohibitions: PUBH5034 Assessment: 1 x 2500 word written report 40% 1 x 250 word abstract 10% 1 x individual presentation (oral presentation delivered face to face or as online recording) (3500 word equivalent) 50% Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online, Supervision
Note: This unit is a variation of the current 4 cpt Public Health Capstone PUBH5034. Students must have completed all core PH units. Unit will be offered in both semesters to allow flexibility for part-time students.
This unit provides students with an opportunity to draw together and integrate their learning in the four key aspects of public health as reflected in their degree program - knowledge, values, actions and outcomes - and apply these to a project. The key aim is for students to undertake the sort of set of tasks they are likely to be required to do during their public health career - research a topic, prepare a summary of it and communicate their findings to a knowledgeable but not expert audience. Students will undertake a focused assessment on a public health topic. This may be as part of a practical public health project or on area investigated primarily for the purposes of the capstone unit. Small-group tutorials will be held, designed to cover important aspects of the unit - the relevant topic area and developing skills in preparing an abstract, developing a well-structured presentation and presenting in public. The work will culminate in a presentation of the work at a School seminar attended by other capstone unit student and School academics
Part 1
PUBH5019 Cancer Prevention and Control
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Gemma Jacklyn Session: Semester 2 Classes: 10 x online modules (each comprising online lectures, readings, quiz), approx. 4 hours per week x 10 weeks, 4 x online group interactions (1 x peer assessment and 3 x online discussions) approx. 2 hours per session for preparation and posting. Prerequisites: PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 Assessment: 10 x online quizzes (10%); 1 x 1200-word individual written assignment ¿ critical appraisal task (20%); 1 x peer assessment exercise (5%); 1 x 400-word written assignment + anonymous peer assessment of each other's work based on pre-determined criteria. Final mark will be the median of all the peer marks. (10%); participation in 3 x online discussions (15%); 1 x 2500 word individual written assignment (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit introduces students to the concepts, methods and applications underpinning cancer prevention and control at population level. It is designed to a offer a broad-based perspective on public health approaches to cancer control across the continuum from prevention through diagnosis, screening, treatment, survivorship and palliative and supportive care. We will critically appraise policies and interventions that have potential to reduce cancer incidence and mortality, prolong survival and improve quality of life. Although each topic will be presented in the context of specific cancers and the Australian health care system, the principles and frameworks will be relevant for regional and global cancer control efforts. At the completion of the unit, students will be equipped with the basic tools to design, plan, implement and evaluate cancer control strategies and programs.
Textbooks
Elwood JM, Sutcliffe SB (Eds). Cancer Control. New York: Oxford University Press, 2010 (pp1-469)
PUBH5020 Chronic Disease Prevention and Control
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Adrian Bauman Session: Semester 1 Classes: 20 hrs online lectures; 16 hrs online discussions Assumed knowledge: PUBH5033, PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 or equivalent Assessment: 1000 word assignment (20%), 2000 word assignment (40%), on-line discussions (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: PUBH5020 is an advanced MPH elective, and some epidemiological concepts, such as population attributable risk are expected knowledge for understanding the Burden of Disease concept, that is important in NCD (chronic disease) prevention, and is part of Module 2 of this unit. In addition, this MPH elective predominantly takes a population and global perspective on NCD prevention, rather than a clinical or health services perspective
This course offers a public health approach to examining the global issue of chronic diseases (e.g. cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, chronic lung disease) and their prevention. The course examines why chronic disease is a global problem, and describes WHO frameworks for chronic disease prevention. It also reviews the epidemiology of specific chronic diseases including trends in and surveillance of these conditions, and the global (and country level) burden of disease. Teaching will focus on clinical prevention, in particular, the role of primary care, other clinicians and allied health professionals in providing lifestyle advice for people with chronic disease (tertiary prevention) and for people without chronic disease (primary prevention). Students will be involved in evaluating the effectiveness of different prevention strategies and will examine the role of health policy and strategic planning in developing effective and sustainable chronic disease management programs and health services in different settings (in Australia and the region).
Textbooks
Readings for this unit will be available on the eLearning site
PUBH5227 Public Health Program Evaluation
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adrian Bauman, Anne Grunseit, Justin Richards Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3 x 1 day weekend workshops. The first two workshops will be on consecutive Saturdays. This will be followed immediately by four weeks of online content, which will further develop the content from the first two workshops and prepare the students for the final workshop. The online component will involve video lectures / tutorials and contributing to online discussion forums on course content and relevant readings. The final workshop will require the students to identify, review and present material developed during the online learning component and will also extend the students into more complex program evaluation principles. Prerequisites: PUBH5033 AND PUBH5010 Assessment: 1x2000 word assignments (40%); participation in workshop 1 (10%); participation in workshop 2 (10%); engagement and contribution to online discussion forums (20%); presentation and participation in workshop 3 (20%) Mode of delivery: Distance education/intensive on campus
Note: Attendance and participation in ALL weekend workshops is mandatory as well as online participation [this unit is not available in online only mode]
Comprehensive evaluation of public health and disease prevention programs is critical to developing an evidence base for public health practice as well as for accountability to stakeholders. Evaluations demonstrate the efficacy, effectiveness and/or efficiency of the program and provide models of good practice. This course builds skills in planning, conducting and using formative, process, impact and outcome evaluations of public health programs, with an emphasis on those which address public health approaches to chronic disease prevention. Using three face-to-face workshops supplemented by online resources and four weeks of online discussions, students will participate in readings, group work, lectures and discussions, to develop skills in defining the purpose of an evaluation, defining the evaluation questions, selecting evaluation designs and measures for evaluation (and understand the process of measurement development). A specific focus will be on skills to critically appraise evaluations and to use results in practice. Additional sessions will be devoted to methods for scaling up interventions to the population level, and to the design and evaluation of multi-faceted complex public health programs.
Textbooks
Recommended: Bauman A, Nutbeam D. Evaluation in a Nutshell: 2nd Edition. A practical guide to the evaluation of health promotion programs. McGraw-Hill, Sydney , 2013
PUBH5039 Public Health Nutrition Essentials
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Tim Gill, Dr Kyra Sim Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x2hr online lec and 1x2hr online tut per wk for 12 wks and 1x face to face full day workshop (compulsory) Prohibitions: PUBH5029 Assumed knowledge: Existing study of epidemiology desirable but not essential Assessment: 1x1500wd essay (20%) and 1x2000 wd group project (30%) and 1x3000wd individual project (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
The unit provides students with a deeper understanding of key public health nutrition practices and principles which will enable them to better understand and address population nutrition issues. There will be a strong focus on understanding dietary intake assessment and the use of data generated from nutrition surveys to improve the understanding of nutrition epidemiological studies and the relationship between diet and chronic disease. The concept of nutrition environments will be central to the exploration of community nutrition status and how dietary interventions are planned and evaluated. Global and local food and nutrition policy issues will be addressed and related to sustainability and environmental health concerns. The teaching approach involves class interaction and provides opportunities for self-reflection.
Textbooks
Notes and recommended reading will be distributed with class material
PUBH5101 Special Project in Public Health
Credit points: 4 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Prerequisites: One or more of PUBH5010, PUBH5018 and QUAL5005 depending on the intended project Assessment: 1x 4000 word written report (100%) or as agreed with the supervisor and unit coordinator. Mode of delivery: Supervision
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students should first contact the unit coordinator to discuss their proposed topic or area of interest. They then contact an academic staff member associated with the area of their project and negotiate the details of the project and negotiate the details of the project design and the method and frequency of contact with the supervisor during the project. Once the unit coordinator has agreed to the enrolment, the students applies to enrol via Sydney Student. The unit coordinator will then formally approve the enrolment.
This unit is intended for students nearing the end of their MPH. The Special Project is a self-directed unit focussed on a specific MPH-related topic of interest to the student. The project is supervised by an academic within the School. An external person can act as the main supervisor but a School academic would also be required. This project may be developed by the student or the student could develop a project in consultation with an intended supervisor. The student needs to meet with the supervisor during the semester. Preferably this would be at least three times but the frequency will depend on the project and the preference of the supervisor. The project is meant to be self-directed so there is not an expectation that the supervisor would have close involvement, although they can if they want to. The student would be expected to undertake approximately 80 to 100 hours of work for this unit. The format of the final report or other output can be whatever is appropriate, as agreed with the supervisor(s). The report is due no later than the Monday of Week 13, or a later date as agreed with the supervisor(s) and the unit coordinator.
PUBH5102 Special Project in Public Health
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Prerequisites: One or more of PUBH5010, PUBH5018 and QUAL5005 depending on the intended project Assessment: 1x 2000 word written report (100%) or as agreed with the supervisor and unit coordinator. Mode of delivery: Supervision
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students should first contact the unit coordinator to discuss their proposed topic or area of interest. They then 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. Once the unit coordinator has agreed to the enrolment, the students applies to enrol via Sydney Student. The unit coordinator will then formally approve the enrolment.
This unit is intended for students nearing the end of their MPH. The Special Project is a self-directed unit focussed on a specific MPH-related topic of interest to the student. The project is supervised by an academic within the School. An external person can act as the main supervisor but a School academic would also be required. This project may be developed by the student or the student could develop a project in consultation with an intended supervisor. The student needs to meet with the supervisor during the semester. Preferably this would be at least three times but the frequency will depend on the project and the preference of the supervisor. The project is meant to be self-directed so there is not an expectation that the supervisor would have close involvement, although they can if they want to. The student would be expected to undertake approximately 50 to 50 hours of work for this unit. The format of the final report or other output can be whatever is appropriate, as agreed with the supervisor(s). The report is due no later than the Monday of Week 13, or a later date as agreed with the supervisor(s) and the unit coordinator.
PUBH5121 Environmental Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Geoffrey Morgan Session: Semester 2 Classes: f2f 13x1hr lec, 6x2hr tut online 13x1hr lec, 6x2hr tut (conducted over 36 hours) Assessment: f2f and online student complete 1x3000wd essay (60%) and tutorial reports equivalent to 1x1500wd report (30%) 10xquizzes (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This course aims to describe the interrelation between our environment and human populations, local communities and individuals and the potential impact on health of environmental hazards. The unit will explore the major categories of environmental health hazards including air quality, water quality, chemical hazards (eg soils and contaminated sites), physical hazards (eg noise and radiation), microbiological hazards (eg Legionnaires' disease) and food safety. Regional and global issues of sustainability, climate change and land use planning will also be covered. The disciplines of epidemiology, toxicology and ecology will be applied within a risk assessment framework to characterise health risks associated with environmental hazards and determine risk management options and inform risk communication strategies. Students completing this unit will appreciate the multi-disciplinary nature of environmental health, the application of a risk assessment framework to characterise environmental health risks and inform risk management and risk communication, and the need to work closely with a broad range of stakeholders including commonwealth and state health, environment and planning agencies, local government, industry, researchers and the community.
Textbooks
Recommended: Environmental Health: From Global to Local, 3rd Edition. Frumkin H. Wiley, 2016. Environmental Health (Fourth Edition). Moeller DW. Harvard University Press, 2011.
PUBH5145 Alcohol, drug use and health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Carolyn Day Session: Semester 1 Classes: Block mode only: 2 whole day workshops, plus 13 hrs of online lectures Prohibitions: PUBH5114 or PUBH5115 Assessment: 2 x 2000-word assignments (60%), assessable discussions (f2f or online depending on mode) (20%), presentation (f2f or online depending on mode, equivalent to 1000 words) (10%); 2x online quizzes of 10 mcqs (10%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
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. Research methods in relation to substance use disorders, and the needs of special populations are also considered.
Textbooks
A list of compulsory and recommended readings will be available via the LMS.
PUBH5120 Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Suzanne Plater Session: Semester 2 Classes: face-to-face students 5 x 1 day workshops over 12 weeks; participation assessable online students 5 x 3 days tutorials and discussions (equivalent to workshops) over 12 weeks; participation and online tutorial discussion assessable Prohibitions: PUBH5118 Assessment: workshop and online participation 15% 1 x 1000 word reflective essay 20% 1 x online multiple choice quiz 15% 1 x 3500 word report 50% Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This unit will significantly advance your philosophical, theoretical and practical understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and societies within the context of public health. We will use case studies grounded in diverse urban, regional and remote communities and the life experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to explore key constructs. These include transgenerational psychic trauma, racism, political structures and systems, cultural determinants, ethics, and global indigenous epistemologies. Together we will investigate the reasons why Australia has so far been unable to close the gap across almost all indicators of health and wellbeing, and explore innovative, ethical and effective solutions. Throughout this unit you will be encouraged to interact with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander academics, health professionals and community members, and your unit coordinator, tutors and fellow students, and feel confident to ask difficult questions and debate the responses. Our aim is to give you the practical and conceptual knowledge and skills necessary to work respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from across the nation.
Textbooks
None, readings provided
PUBH5126 Genetics and Public Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Anne Cust Session: Intensive October Classes: 1 x 3 day workshop. there is also substantial pre-reading before the course (distributed to students 3-4 weeks before the course starts) and an online component with pre-recorded lectures (usually about 4 x 50-min lectures). Prerequisites: Epidemiology Methods and Uses (PUBH5010) Assumed knowledge: Basic epidemiology. No previous knowledge of genetics is required. Assessment: 3 x online quiz of 30 multiple-choice questions in total (15%), small-group assignment of 1, 500 words (25%), in-class group debate (10%), individual assignment of 2000 words (8 questions x 250 words/question, each requiring a targeted answer) (45%), peer-assessed teamwork (5%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit caters for practitioners, policy and decision-makers, students and researchers in public health, public policy, journalism, law, epidemiology, medicine, science, industry, ethics, philosophy, communication and advocacy. It gives a basic introduction to genetics and genetic epidemiology and covers issues like genetic determinants of disease, genetic testing and screening, psychosocial, legal and ethical aspects of genetics and genetic testing, genetic education and genetics and public policy.
PUBH5212 Categorical Data Analysis
This unit of study is not available in 2019
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kevin McGeechan Session: Semester 2b Classes: 1 x 2hr lecture, 5 x 1hr lectures, and 5 x 1hr tutorials over 6 weeks. Also available online - such students must have regular access to a reliable internet connection capable of streaming or downloading video recorded lectures. Prerequisites: PUBH5018 Corequisites: PUBH5211 Assessment: 1x 3 page report (30%) and 1x 8 page report (70%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
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).
Textbooks
Course notes are provided.
PUBH5213 Survival Analysis
This unit of study is not available in 2019
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Erin Cvejic Session: Semester 2b Classes: 1 x 2hr lecture, 5 x 1hr lectures, and 5 x 1hr tutorials over 6 weeks. Also available online - such students must have regular access to a reliable internet connection capable of streaming or downloading video recorded lectures. Corequisites: PUBH5211 Assessment: 1x 3 page assignment (20%) and 1x 10 page assignment (80%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
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 for those who do not experience the event of interest. 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; and sample size calculations for survival studies. For each topic, participants are given materials to read beforehand. This is followed by a lecture, then participants are given a small number of exercise 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, followed by the lecture 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 invlove use of SAS to analyse survival data sets.
Textbooks
Course notes are provided, along with links to additional readings through the library.
PUBH5215 Introductory Analysis of Linked Data
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Erin Cvejic Session: Intensive June,Intensive November Classes: block/intensive mode 5 days 9am-5pm Corequisites: (PUBH5010 or BSTA5011 or CEPI5100) and (PUBH5211 or PUBH5217 or BSTA5004) Assumed knowledge: Basic familiarity with SAS computing syntax and methods of basic statistical analysis of fixed-format data files Assessment: Reflective journal (30%) and 1x data analysis assignment (70%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: For data privacy and security reasons, the analysis required to complete the major assignment can only be performed on the computers in the Sydney School of Public Health Computer Lab. The computer lab is made available to students 24/7 for ten days after the end of the unit for the purpose of completing this assessment task.
This unit introduces the topic of linked health data analysis. It will usually run in late June and mid November. The topic is very specialised and will not be relevant to most MPH students. The modular structure of the unit provides students with a theoretical grounding in the classroom on each topic, followed by hands-on practical exercises in the computing lab using de-identified linked NSW data files. The computing component assumes a basic familiarity with SAS computing syntax and methods of basic statistical analysis of fixed-format data files. Contents include: an overview of the theory of data linkage methods and features of comprehensive data linkage systems, sufficient to know the sources and limitations of linked health data sets; design of linked data studies using epidemiological principles; construction of numerators and denominators used for the analysis of disease trends and health care utilisation and outcomes; assessment of the accuracy and reliability of data sources; data linkage checking and quality assurance of the study process; basic statistical analyses of linked longitudinal health data; manipulation of large linked data files; writing syntax to prepare linked data files for analysis, derive exposure and outcome variables, relate numerators and denominators and produce results from statistical procedures at an introductory to intermediate level. The main assignment involves the analysis of NSW linked data, which can be completed only in the Sydney School of Public Health Computer Lab, and is due 10 days after the end of the unit.
Textbooks
Notes will be distributed in class.
PUBH5216 Controlled Clinical Trials
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Chris Brown (Research Fellow), A/Prof Andrew Martin Session: Semester 2 Classes: face to face:12x 1hr lec and 12x1hr tutorial, or online: 12x 1hr lec and 12x1hr tutorial (asynchronous) Prerequisites: PUBH5018 Prohibitions: PUBH5206 - Controlled trials (2CP) Assessment: 1x2.5hr open-book exam (60%) 1x1500 word assignment (30%) 6x online quizzes (10%) Mode of delivery: Online, Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit introduces the principles underpinning the design and conduct of high quality controlled clinical trials to generate good evidence for health care decision making. The topics include clinical trial design, randomisation, sample size, measures of treatment effect, methodological issues, trial protocols, and ethical principles.
Textbooks
Reading materials are provided
PUBH5217 Regression Modelling
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Erin Cvejic, Dr Kevin McGeechan Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x1hr lec and 2hrs tuts / pracs per wk for 13wks Prerequisites: PUBH5018 Prohibitions: (PUBH5211 or PUBH5212 or PUBH5213) Assessment: 1x 4pg data analysis assignment (equivalent to 1200wds) (25%) and 10x online quizzes (15%) and 1x 10pg data analysis assignment (equivalent to 3000wds) (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
Note: The statistical software package used in this unit is web-based. There is no cost/fee to use this software. Course notes will be provided, along with links to additional readings through the library.
In this unit, you will learn how to select and apply the appropriate regression modelling techniques for continuous, categorical, and time-to-event outcome data. Building on the skills developed in PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics, this unit will teach you how to compare two or more groups, incorporate several explanatory variables into a regression model, identify and adjust for confounders, test for effect modification, calculate adjusted effect estimates, conduct appropriate model checking, build the 'best' regression model, and interpret the results of a model. You will gain practical experience in fitting multiple linear regression, logistic regression, and proportional hazards (survival) models using the statistical software package SAS. This unit serves as a prerequisite for an advanced unit of study in biostatistics (CEPI5310 Advanced Statistical Modelling).
Textbooks
Course notes are provided, along with links to additional readings through the library.
PUBH5224 Advanced Epidemiology
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 2 Classes: Weekly classes (combined lectures and tutorials) for 13 weeks. Prerequisites: (PUBH5010 or CEPI5100) and PUBH5018 Assessment: 1x 1500 word assignment or equivalent class presentation (30%); 1x 4000 word assignment (or equivalent answers to specific methodological questions) (70%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study is intended for students who have completed Epidemiology Methods and Uses (or an equivalent unit of study) at a credit or higher level. It is designed to extend students' practical and theoretical knowledge of epidemiology beyond basic principles, provide students with an opportunity to consolidate critical appraisal skills and to acquire some of the practical knowledge and skills needed to design epidemiological research.
PUBH5225 Population Mental Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Kirsten Morley, A/Prof Michael Robertson Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1-hour x12 weekly online lectures/podcasts 12 weeks of self-paced online tutorials (asynchronous) Prerequisites: PUBH5033 Assessment: 1x3500 words individual assignment (45%) 1x3500 words individual assignment (45%) assessable asynchronous tutorial participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Online
The course will provide an evidence-based introduction to public health approaches designed to promote mental health and well-being and prevent mental illness. The aim is to assist students to develop an evidence-based understanding of population mental health including epidemiology, determinants of mental health, the effectiveness of prevention and early intervention programs, mental health services and policies and mental health human rights. The emphasis is on primary prevention strategies rather than the management of those already with mental illness. Evidence-based case studies will be presented including a focus on mental health challenges for the future in specific modules such as: suicide prevention, comorbidity, mental health in minority groups and mental health in the workplace. By the end of this unit, students will understand the relationship between the determinants of mental health and public health strategies to prevent mental illness and enhance well being.
Textbooks
None, readings will be provided.
PUBH5312 Health Economic Evaluation
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Alison Hayes, Dr Martin Howell, Prof Kirsten Howard Session: Intensive September Classes: on-line components and 4 non-consecutive workshop days Prerequisites: HPOL5000 and (PUBH5010 or CEPI5100) and PUBH5018 Prohibitions: PUBH5302 Assessment: on-line quiz (5%) in class presentation (5%) short answer questions and calculations (1000 words 20%) 2000 words critical appraisal (30%) 2000 words protocol report (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The overall aim of the course is to develop students' knowledge and skills of economic evaluation as an aid to priority setting in health care. Students will be introduced to the principles of economic evaluation and develop skills in the application of those principles to resource allocation choices. Emphasis will be placed on learning by case study analysis and problem solving in small groups. This unit covers: principles and different types of economic evaluation; critical appraisal guidelines; measuring and valuing benefits; methods of costing; modeling in economic evaluation, the role of the PBAC, introduction to advanced methods including use of patient-level data and data linkage. The workshops consist of interactive lectures, class exercises and quizzes.
Textbooks
Recommended book: Michael F. Drummond , Mark J. Sculpher , George W. Torrance, Bernie J. O'Brien, Greg L. Stoddart. Methods for the Economic Evaluation of Health Care Programmes (Paperback), Oxford University Press, 2005. Essential chapters available on-line.
PUBH5317 Decision modelling for economic evaluation
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Kirsten Howard and A/Prof Andrew Martin Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3 x 1 day workshops plus 1 x 2 day workshop Prerequisites: (PUBH5010 or CEPI5100) and PUBH5018 Corequisites: PUBH5312 Prohibitions: PUBH5205 PUBH5307 Assessment: completion of in class practicals (10%) 2 x in-class quizzes (30%) 2 x assignments (60% - 2 x 30%) (2 x 2000 word written assignments) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit combines decision theory and more advanced health economic concepts to provide students with hands-on skills in specialised analysis methods, and modelling techniques, for evaluating healthcare options and reaching recommendations in the face of uncertainty. Students will calculate and analyse data from clinical studies, extrapolate clinical study results to other settings, and construct models that synthesise evidence (and expert opinion) from multiple sources. Specific topics of study include: decision trees; expected utility theory; sensitivity and threshold analysis; the value of information (including screening and diagnostic tests); the calculation and analysis of costs and quality-adjusted survival using individual patient data (including bootstrapping techniques); Markov processes and micro-simulation; and presenting and interpreting the results of (health economic) evaluations. Lectures are accompanied by practical exercises and readings. Students gain experience applying the methods presented in lectures via computer practicals using Excel and decision analysis software (TreeAge).
Textbooks
Reading materials are provided
PUBH5416 Vaccines in Public Health
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Aditi Dey, Dr Frank Beard Session: Semester 2 Classes: Preparatory online lectures and 1x 2day workshop at the Children's Hospital Westmead Prerequisites: PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 or PUBH5018 Assessment: 2x short online quizzes (10%) plus 1x 1500 word assignment (90%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Students who have not done the core units of study in epidemiology (PUBH5010 or CEPI5100) or biostatistics (PUBH5018) but have previous demonstrable experience in these study areas will be required to request permission from the unit of study coordinator to enrol in this unit of study. Permission is required to ensure that students have a basic grounding in epidemiology and biostatistics. The coordinator emails the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit to advise whether or not 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; vaccine scares; risk communication; immunisation in the developing country context; assessing disease burden and new vaccines. Learning activities include short online preparatory lectures and a workshop with interactive lectures and small group case studies.
PUBH5418 Tobacco Control in the 21st Century
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Becky Freeman Session: Intensive 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%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, 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) Chapman S. Public Health Advocacy and Tobacco Control: Making Smoking History. Oxford: Blackwell, 2007.
PUBH5421 Infection Prevention in Healthcare
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Patricia Ferguson Session: Semester 2 Classes: block mode (2 x 3days) Assumed knowledge: basic knowledge of medical microbiology, antimicrobial agents and communicable disease epidemiology and clinical features Assessment: 2x2000 word essays/assignments (2x30%); 2x short answer question exams -150 word answers for each of 5 questions (2x20%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Attendance, in person, at workshops is strongly recommended, to enable participation in discussions. However, lectures will be recorded and available online after the workshops. Students who are unable to attend some or all of workshop sessions can view them, but generally not the associated discussions, online. Assessments are online.
This unit will provide students with an understanding of the individual and societal risks of healthcare-associated infections (HAI) and the rationale for, and barriers to, their prevention and control (PC). A basic understanding of medical microbiology and communicable disease epidemiology will be assumed. The unit will cover such important concepts as: ethical and economic implications; psychological, behavioural, cultural and professional influences; the varying roles, responsibilities and perspectives of clinicians, health support staff, administrators, patients and the community; potential uses and implications of new technology (such as information and decision support systems, electronic medical records and highly discriminatory microbial strain typing, including whole genome sequencing) in HAI surveillance. The course will also address the rationales and strategies for implementation of HAI-related policies, such as hand hygiene, aseptic technique and antimicrobial stewardship, and some reasons for and consequences of failure to implement them, for individual patients, the health system and the community.
This unit will provide students with an understanding of the individual and societal risks of healthcare-associated infections (HAI) and the rationale for, and barriers to, their prevention and control (PC). A basic understanding of medical microbiology and communicable disease epidemiology will be assumed. The unit will cover such important concepts as: ethical and economic implications; psychological, behavioural, cultural and professional influences; the varying roles, responsibilities and perspectives of clinicians, health support staff, administrators, patients and the community; potential uses and implications of new technology (such as information and decision support systems, electronic medical records and highly discriminatory microbial strain typing, including whole genome sequencing) in HAI surveillance. The course will also address the rationales and strategies for implementation of HAI-related policies, such as hand hygiene, aseptic technique and antimicrobial stewardship, and some reasons for and consequences of failure to implement them, for individual patients, the health system and the community.
PUBH5422 Health and Risk Communication
This unit of study is not available in 2019
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Claire Hooker, Associate Professor Julie Leask, Professor Phyllis Butow Session: Semester 2 Classes: Block/intensive 2 blocks of 2 x 9-5 full days; please check with the coordinator for scheduling Assessment: Assignment 1: 1 x 2500 word (35%), Assignment 2: 1 x 2500 words or equivalent (35%), online activities (30%). Attendance at intensives is compulsory and 80% attendance is required to pass the unit of study. Mode of delivery: Block mode
In this unit, students learn how to communicate effectively with respect to health risks, both to individuals with health concerns, and with respect to risks to the public. The first half covers individual health risk communication in clinical settings, including: theories of health communication, patient centred care and shared decision making; evidence-based communication skills; research paradigms including interaction analysis; cross-cultural communication in health care; discussing prognosis; and informed consent. The second half explores risk communication for public health, including: how to effectively manage outbreak or other crisis situations; how to communicate about issues where the risk is low but ublic concern is high (such as with respect to the fluoridation of water); and how to best manage controversies. We teach theories of risk perception and communication with particular application to public health incident responses. We give practical guides to media messages, risk message framing, public engagement, traditional and social media, and the ethical aspects of public communication. The unit offers students the opportunity to learn from outstanding guest lecturers who work in these areas and interactive opportunities for students to try their skills in risk communication and decision making.
Textbooks
Students are provided with a list of readings (in digital format). Most supplementary readings can be accessed through the library or online.
PUBH5423 Adv Concepts:Vaccines in Public Health
Credit points: 4 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Aditi Dey, Dr Frank Beard, Dr Nicholas Wood Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Student project under face-to-face supervision; online lectures, readings and quizzes. Prerequisites: PUBH5416 Assessment: 1 x 3500 word project report (90%); Online quizzes (10%) Mode of delivery: Supervision
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This extension unit of study involves a student project under face-to-face supervision with concurrent online learning. Online content covers advanced concepts on immunisation for children, adolescents and adults. Students will have access to online learning resources such as readings and lectures and will be required to complete compulsory online quizzes over the 12 week semester. Students will also choose a project from a range of project-based activities offered by the NCIRS. Project topics include vaccine policy development; vaccine safety; vaccine effectiveness; evaluation of immunisation programs; immunisation in special populations; implementation of new vaccination programs; social research and latest developments in vaccinology. Students will be jointly supervised by the unit coordinator and other senior researchers associated with the NCIRS. They will work on their project at the NCIRS and have at least 4 compulsory face-to-face meetings with their supervisors across the semester. This includes an initial planning meeting followed by at least two meetings to discuss project progress and a final meeting to give feedback on the draft project report, before submission of the final project report (marked by an independent assessor).Students will spend approximately 6-8 hours/week (x 12 weeks) on the project.
Textbooks
Readings, reference list and other resources will be available on the eLearning site.
PUBH5430 Public Health Advocacy
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Becky Freeman Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x3 day interactive workshop followed by 4 weeks of assessed online discussion. Assessment: 1x 600 word letter to editor or opinion piece or blog post with a publishable standard in writing (15%) 1 x2500 word essay (45%) 1x assessable contribution to day 3 of workshop discussion (10%) 3 weeks online participation (3 posts of 300 words maximum each week = total 2, 700 words total) (30%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit aims to familiarise students with the strategies of public health advocacy, with a focus on news reporting, online media, and political engagement. This unit covers the role of advocacy in advancing public health policy; framing public health issues; newsgathering, reporting and editing; strategies for media advocacy; political lobbying; and message dissemination. There will be an emphasis on how online environments and social media tools are contributing to public health advocacy debates and campaigns. Recent examples of how media have influenced health policy and programming will be presented. Students will have the opportunity to critique and analyse case studies from a variety of both successful and unsuccessful public health advocacy efforts. Students will examine, analyse, and prepare writing for both online and news media such as opinion pieces, media releases, blogs, and social media. The lectures will include guest speakers from non-government organisations, government and other experienced stakeholders from across the public health sector.
Textbooks
Recommended: Chapman S. (2007) Public Health Advocacy and Tobacco Control: Making Smoking History. Oxford: Blackwell.
PUBH5510 Healthy ageing and fall prevention
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Anne Tiedemann, Professor Cathie Sherrington, Professor Bob Cumming Session: Semester 2 Classes: 8x1 hour online lectures and 4x1 hour online discussions with a period of intensive attendance at 2 day face-to-face workshop (8 hours/ day) Prohibitions: PUBH5419 Assessment: participation in 4x400wd online discussions (20%) 1x1500wd assignment (30%) and 1x3000wd essay (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit comprises a series of online lectures and discussions followed by a 2 day face-to-face workshop. The unit aims to teach students about the demography, epidemiology and economics of population ageing in Australia and globally, and about common health conditions that impact on healthy ageing, including dementia, frailty and falls, and the evidence regarding prevention and management of these health conditions. This unit will also include teaching about the structure and role of health and aged care services. The 2 day workshop will focus on fall prevention, from the epidemiology and economic cost of falls to fall risk factors and evidence-based strategies for the prevention of falls and physical activity strategies for healthy ageing, areas of particular expertise in the School of Public Health.
Textbooks
Recorded lectures, lecture notes, case studies and journal articles will be provided online from a password-protected site.
PUBH5551 Climate Change and Public Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ying Zhang, Melody Ding Session: Semester 2 Classes: For face to face students - block workshops and tutorials (1 x 2 days early semester + 1 x 2 days late semester); for online students - recorded seminars and online tutorials (1 x 1 week early semester + 1 x 1 week late semester) Assessment: 1x 1500 word annotated climate change bibliography - individual assignment (30%) 1x quiz - equivalent to 1000 words (20%) 1x 3500 word essay - individual assignment (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
The unit presents critical views of climate change and the ways in which it interacts with human behaviour and population health from various disciplines, e. g. planetary health, international environmental governance and law, environmental economics, urban planning and environmental and social injustice. It addresses major public health risks associated with climate change and extremes, e. g. infectious disease, nutrition, cardiovascular disease, mental health, and indigenous health, in a broader concept of sustainability and global change. Scenarios with regards to responses to climate change, including adaptation and mitigation, will be introduced to build community resilience. This unit will provide both Australian and international perspectives on climate change and health, supported by theoretical and empirical research in both developed and developing countries.
Textbooks
None, readings will be provided
PUBH5555 Lifestyle and Chronic Disease Prevention
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Philayrath Phongsavan, Dr Josephine Chau Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2-day workshop and 9 weeks of online tutorials Prerequisites: PUBH5033 Assessment: 1x1500 words individual assignment (25%) 1x2500 words individual assignment (50%) 1x5mins online oral presentation (10%), online tutorial participation (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) or chronic diseases - mainly diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers - involves shared risk factors. This unit introduces students to the prevention and control of NCD risk factors, specifically tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, high salt intake, and obesity. This unit provides an integrated exploration of the current state-of-the-art in research and practice for addressing these preventable 'lifestyle' risk factors. The emphasis is on primordial and primary prevention strategies, rather than the management of NCDs in those already with chronic disease. This solutions-focused unit comprises specific modules about each of tobacco control, harmful alcohol consumption, physical activity, nutrition and health, salt and health, and obesity prevention. By the end of this unit, students will understand the dynamic relationships between the key risk factors, and the important role of public health prevention approaches to reducing lifestyle risks that are precursors to NCDs.
Textbooks
None, Readings will be provided
PUBH5600 Biosecurity Seminar Series
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Michael Walsh; Dr Gabriella Scandurra Session: Semester 2 Classes: 8 x 2-hr lectures plus 8 x 1-hr seminar/tutorial plus 18-hrs online curated content requiring student responses Prerequisites: CISS6004 or GOVT6316 or MECO6909 or WORK6130 or unit of study coordinator permission. Assessment: 1 x 2500wd detailed assignment plus 3 x 1000wd written policy briefs plus seminar participation and online responses Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is the capstone unit for the Master of Health Security. The unit is designed to bring together the knowledge achieved throughout the degree for students to use critical thinking and leadership skills to solve global health security issues presented to them. The unit will consist of a series of eight lectures and seminars that will present students with complex health security issues. Students will then critically evaluate the human and animal, biosafety and biodefense, and agrosecurity perspectives to understand how they are interconnected and appreciate the difficulty in realistically and appropriately solving these issues.
Part 2
BETH5203 Ethics and Public Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: TBC Session: Semester 2 Classes: 5x7hour intensives; or Distance Education (online). Prohibitions: BETH5206 Assessment: 5xOnline Quiz (50%); 1x2500wd essay (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This unit provides students with an overview of the ethical and political issues that underlie public health and public health research. The unit begins with some fundamentals: the nature of ethics, of public health (and how it might be different to clinical medicine) and of public health ethics. It introduces key concepts in public health ethics including liberty, utility, justice, solidarity and reciprocity, and introduces students to different ways of reasoning about the ethics of public health. A range of practical public health problems and issues will be considered, including ethical dimensions of communicable and non-communicable diseases in populations, and the ethical challenges of public health research. Throughout, the emphasis is on learning to make sound arguments about the ethical aspects of public health policy, practice and research. Most learning occurs in the context of five teaching intensives, which are highly interactive and focus on the development and application of reasoning skills.
Textbooks
Students are provided with a list of readings (in digital format).
BETH5205 Ethics and Mental Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Professor Michael Robertson; Miss Bronwen Morrell Session: Semester 2 Classes: Distance Education (online) Assumed knowledge: Basic understanding of ethical reasoning Assessment: Major Assignment (3000 word limit) 50%; 2x5 short-answer written assessments (25% each) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Students can meet with course coordinators by appointment in person or via teleconference
Constructs of mental health and mental illness are highly contextual to culture, history and societal notions of normative experience and conduct. Mental illness can place an individual in a position of particular disadvantage and unique vulnerability through diminished (and deprived) autonomy. In light of this, ethical deliberation in the field of mental health care differs from other lines of inquiry in biomedical ethics. This unit of study begins with an examination of the unique status of the 'psychiatric patient' and the problems in applying normative ethical approaches to moral deliberation in mental health care. We then explore particular topics in mental health ethics including the legacies of the National Socialist persecution of the sick and disabled; and unique challenges in the care of groups in the community including Aboriginal Australians, refugees and asylum seekers, people in LGBTIQ communities, and adults and children living with learning and intellectual disabilities. We also explore contemporary controversies in mental health care including coercion and involuntary treatment, the mental health implications of the euthanasia debate, gendered power, medicalisation of children's behaviour, the problem of 'evil', and mental health professionals speaking out in the media on topics of public interest. During the semester, the course coordinators provide participants with regular feedback and guidance in their engagement with the topic. Each week features a podcast lecture and/or interview with an expert in the area under consideration and recommended readings, as well as other media where relevant.
Textbooks
Robertson M and Walter G Ethics and Mental Health: The Patient, Profession and Community (2013) Boca Raton CRC Press; Students are provided with a list of readings (in digital format). Most supplementary readings can be accessed through the library or online.
BETH5208 Introduction to Human Research Ethics
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Professor Ainsley Newson Session: Semester 2 Classes: Block mode (1.5 days) or online Corequisites: GENC5020 Prohibitions: BETH5202 Assessment: 1x1500wd essay (80%); 1x 400wd task (10%); participation in class/online (10%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: If an insufficient number of students opt to attend seminars on campus, the co-ordinator may choose to teach this Unit of Study in online mode only. Students will be contacted if this occurs.
This unit of study introduces students to human research ethics in its wider context. It explores the ethical underpinnings of the research endeavour including the justifications for engaging in research and research integrity. The unit also briefly reviews the history of research and the impact of research abuse on human participants.
Textbooks
All readings are accessed online via elearning.
BETH5209 Medicines Policy, Economics and Ethics
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Wendy Lipworth, Dr Narcyz Ghinea Session: Semester 2 Classes: Fully online. Assumed knowledge: A degree in science, medicine, pharmacy, nursing, allied health, philosophy/ethics, sociology/anthropology, history, law, communications, public policy, business, economics, commerce, organisation studies, or other relevant field, or by special permission. Assessment: Online work (15%) 1x minor essay (35%) 1x major essay (50%) Mode of delivery: Online
Medicines save lives but they can be costly and can have serious adverse effects. Value-laden decisions are continuously being made at individual, institutional, national and international levels regarding the medicines we need, want and can afford. In this unit of study, we will explore and critique global and national policies and processes related to medicines, examining how research and development agendas are set; how medicines are assessed and evaluated; and how new technologies are translated into practice. We will also explore broader trends such as globalisation, commercialisation and changing consumer expectations. By the end of the course, students will understand the forces shaping the development, regulation, funding and uptake of medicines both nationally and internationally, and the political, ethical, legal and economic issues that are at stake. This course is designed to appeal to a wide range of students from ethics, law, public health, health care, policy, communications, economics, business, politics, administration, and biomedical science.
Textbooks
Readings will be provided
CEPI5200 Quality and Safety in Health Care
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Merrilyn Walton Session: Semester 1 Classes: offered online Assessment: 4 online reflective statements (20%); 4 x 1500 word assignments (80%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: People working in health care will benefit from this course.
This course is specifically designed for health professionals who are working in health care. It will equip participants with underpinning knowledge about patient safety. There are 4 modules that students are required to participate in that cover quality and safety principles, professionalism and ethics, risk management and risk information, complexity theory, clinical governance and the impact of adverse events, methods to measure and make improvements in health care. Each module provides for discussion to enable the participants to ask questions and describe their experiences. Students are required to write a reflective statement about the main learning after each module. The modules, tools and the discussions are designed to enable participants to change behaviours by understanding the main causes of adverse events-poor team work, busyness, hierachies. The course provides foundation knowledge about quality and safety; governments around the world are concerned to address unsafe care. The course will better prepare health professional to understand the complexity of health care and take steps to minimise the opportunities for errors and address vulnerabilities in the system.
Textbooks
Runciman, Bill, Merry A Walton M. Safety and Ethics in Healthcare: A Guide to Getting it Right. 2007 Asgate Publisher.
CEPI5215 Writing and Reviewing Medical Papers
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Angela Webster Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 9 self-paced modules each comprising: course notes, lecture, demonstrations, exercises, quizzes Prerequisites: (PUBH5010 or CEPI5100) Prohibitions: CEPI5214 Assumed knowledge: Some basic knowledge of summary statistic is assumed Assessment: quizzes (30%), assignment 1 (20%), assignment 2 (50%) Mode of delivery: Online
Note: Students without the pre-requisites are encouraged to contact the unit coordinator to discuss their motivation and experience.
Students will work at their own pace through 9 modules covering research integrity, medical style, abstracts, presentations and posters, constructing a paper, data visualisation, manuscript submission, responding to reviewers comments, publication dissemination, and reviewing a paper. This unit aims to teach students the principles of research integrity in writing for medical journals, typical issues they may face, and link to resources to help them maintain integrity through their publishing careers. It will guide them to reliable evidence based resources to improve their conference abstract, presentation and poster design, and manuscript style and writing.. Students will learn about reporting guidelines, common pitfalls in writing and presenting research, choosing a journal, keywords, improving tables and figures for manuscripts through open source software, copyright, writing cover letters and response letters to reviewers. Students will learn about measuring research impact and ways to improve research reach, dealing with the media and press releases, using social media in dissemination, digital archiving and basic skills needed to act as a quality peer-reviewer. This is an online unit
Textbooks
No mandatory text book-readings available online.
CEPI5310 Advanced Statistical Modelling
Credit points: 4 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Patrick Kelly Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2hr lec/tut/week x 12 weeks, also offered fully online. Prerequisites: PUBH5212 Assessment: 2 x data analysis report (2x50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening, Online
This unit covers statistical analysis techniques that are commonly required for analysing data that arise from clinical or epidemiological studies. Students will gain hands on experience applying model-building strategies and fitting advanced statistical models. In particular, students will learn a statistical software package called Stata, how to handle non-linear continuous variables, and how to analyse correlated data. Correlated data arise from clustered or longitudinal study designs, such as, cross-over studies, matched case-control studies, cluster randomised trials and studies involving repeated measurements. Statistical models that will be covered include fixed effects models, marginal models using Generalised Estimating Equations (GEE), and mixed effects models (also known as hierarchical or multilevel models). This unit of study focuses on data analyses using Stata and the interpretation of results.
Textbooks
No mandatory text books. Course notes are provided.
CEPI5311 Diagnostic and Screening Tests (Part 1)
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Katy Bell Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x2hr synchronous seminar/week for 6 weeks Prerequisites: PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 Prohibitions: PUBH5208 or CEPI5202 or CEPI5312 Assessment: Class discussion/presentations (40%), written assignment (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This unit of study introduces the student to basic concepts behind diagnostic and screening tests, including: test accuracy, sources of bias in test evaluation, critical appraisal of test evaluation studies, principles and use of evidence in making decisions about population screening. After completing this unit of study, the student should have a basic understanding of contemporary issues and the methodology underlying, diagnostic and screening test evaluation and application.
Textbooks
Course notes will be provided
CEPI5312 Diagnostic and Screening Tests (1 and 2)
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Katy Bell Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x2hr synchronous seminar/week for 12 weeks Prerequisites: PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 Prohibitions: PUBH5208 or CEPI5202 or CEPI5311 Assessment: Class discussion/presentations (40%) and two written assignments (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This unit of study introduces the student to basic concepts behind diagnostic and screening tests, including: test accuracy, sources of bias in test evaluation, critical appraisal of test evaluation studies, principles and use of evidence in making decisions about population screening. It will then move to more advanced topics including: application of test results to individual patients, place of tests in diagnostic pathways, impact of tests on patient outcome, tests with continuous outcome, receiver-operator characteristic curves, systematic review of diagnostic tests, predictive models, monitoring, diagnostic tests in the health system, and over-diagnosis. After completing this unit of study, the student should have a comprehensive understanding of contemporary issues and the methodology underlying, diagnostic and screening test evaluation and application.
Textbooks
Course notes will be provided
COMP5424 Information Technology in Biomedicine
Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures, Tutorials Assessment: Through semester assessment (40%) and Final Exam (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Information technology (IT) has significantly contributed to the research and practice of medicine, biology and health care. The IT field is growing enormously in scope with biomedicine taking a lead role in utilising the evolving applications to its best advantage. The goal of this unit of study is to provide students with the necessary knowledge to understand the information technology in biomedicine. The major emphasis will be on the principles associated with biomedical digital imaging systems and related biomedicine data processing, analysis, visualisation, registration, modelling, retrieval and management. A broad range of practical integrated clinical applications will be also elaborated.
DENT5013 Preventative Dentistry
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Hayley Dixon and Miss Rebecca Chen Session: Semester 2 Classes: 7 x 2 hr workshop/tutorial sessions. Prerequisites: PUBH5018, PUBH5010 Assessment: Individual written assignments (70%), tutorial discussion and group-work participation (30%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Dental disease remains prevalent in Australia. The AIHW reports that in 2010, 55% of 6 year olds; 48% of 12 year olds in their deciduous and permanent dentitions, respectively.
The burden of this disease is significant and falls inequitably on those who are the most socially disadvantaged and those least able to access expensive treatment.
The most ethical and cost-effective manner of addressing oral disease is through preventative dental care.
This unit of study will permit post-graduate students to gain an understanding of the factors that place an individual at risk of dental disease, including dental caries, oral cancer and periodontal disease. Students will examine the impact of such disease through a public health lens.
Students will also learn the theoretical basis for preventative dental care and how this knowledge may be applied for population-level effect.
Particular emphasis will be placed on the Australian context.
The ability to source and identify high-quality information is key to the practice of public health. As such, students will learn how to search and critically analyse the dental evidence base in order to identify robust material.
The course may also be suitable for other MPH and MIPH students who wish to obtain an understanding of oral health disease prevention and oral health promotion.
Teaching in this topic will draw on the expertise of public health academics and clinical oral health professionals.
The burden of this disease is significant and falls inequitably on those who are the most socially disadvantaged and those least able to access expensive treatment.
The most ethical and cost-effective manner of addressing oral disease is through preventative dental care.
This unit of study will permit post-graduate students to gain an understanding of the factors that place an individual at risk of dental disease, including dental caries, oral cancer and periodontal disease. Students will examine the impact of such disease through a public health lens.
Students will also learn the theoretical basis for preventative dental care and how this knowledge may be applied for population-level effect.
Particular emphasis will be placed on the Australian context.
The ability to source and identify high-quality information is key to the practice of public health. As such, students will learn how to search and critically analyse the dental evidence base in order to identify robust material.
The course may also be suitable for other MPH and MIPH students who wish to obtain an understanding of oral health disease prevention and oral health promotion.
Teaching in this topic will draw on the expertise of public health academics and clinical oral health professionals.
Textbooks
Textbook:
DENT5014 Dental Health Services
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Andrea Lenard and Dr Raul Taliana Session: Semester 2 Classes: One 2 hour (maximum) session fortnightly in Semester Two. Sessions will consist of a combined tutorial/workshop format. It is recommended that students will need to dedicate 2-3 hours per week to cover essential reading and preparation for fortnightly sessions for successful completion of the course, excluding preparation time for course assessment. Prerequisites: PUBH5018, PUBH5030 Assessment: Workshop participation (20%), Assignment 1(30%), Assignment 2(50%), class contribution(20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study provides students with an appreciation of the role and scope of oral health services within the Australian health care system by offering both foundational and applied knowledge required for analysis and evaluation of oral health service delivery. On the completion of this unit of study, students will understand the underpinning principles that contextualise primary oral health care; identify and articulate the socioeconomic and socio-political determinants that impact on the delivery and management of oral health services; and to critically evaluate the appropriateness of existing and proposed oral health services and programs for different population groups
Textbooks
LIN, V, SMITH, J and FAWKES, S 2014, Public health practice in Australia: the organised effort, 2nd edn, Allen and Unwin, Crows Nest, New South Wales
DENT5015 Population Oral Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Alex Holden Session: Semester 2 Classes: 30hrs consisting of 10x(1hr lecture/seminar and 2hr tutorial) Prerequisites: PUBH5010 or CEPI5100 or SUST5004 Assessment: individual written assignments (80%), tutorial discussion and group-work participation (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit will provide students with an advanced understanding of the importance of population oral health in relation to the wider context of dentistry. This unit focuses on the determinants of oral health and the importance of upstream measures to address the root causes of oral diseases and the planning, implementing and evaluating of these approaches. In taking a population-level approach to the management of oral health and well-being, students will develop understanding of key interventions such as community water fluoridation. The sociological aspects of oral health and the dental profession will also be explored and students will learn about planning and implementing oral health policies.
Textbooks
Recommended Reading:
GLOH5112 Global Communicable Disease Control
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Grant Hill-Cawthorne, Ms Kerri Anton Session: Semester 2 Classes: face to face students: 13x1.5hr lecture and 11x1.5hr tutorial, 1x4hr workshop and 1x8hr presentation online students: 13x1.5hr online lecture and 11 weeks of tutorial discussion, 4hr online workshop content and 8hr online presentation content Assessment: 1x3000 word written essay (50%) tutorial facilitation and participation (20%) -face-to-face students will each facilitate a 1.5hr tutorial session -online students will each facilitate a 1-week online discussion board 1 x student group presentation (25%) -face-to-face student groups will give a 30-min oral presentation (accompanied by a powerpoint) -online student groups will upload a 30-min powerpoint presentation peer evaluation of student presentation (5%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit gives candidates essential knowledge of prevention and control of communicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries using country-specific examples. After successfully completing this unit of study, candidates will understand the key issues in communicable diseases and their control in developing countries, as well as gain the knowledge and insight on how prevention and control mechanisms and programs are developed for these diseases in resource-poor settings. The unit covers disease emergence, respiratory tract infections (including TB), vector-borne infections, food- and water-borne infections, neurological infections, neglected tropical diseases, bloodborne and sexually transmitted infections (including HIV) and drug-resistant infections.
Textbooks
Readings are available on the unit's eLearning site
GLOH5115 Women's and Children's Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Camille Raynes-Greenow Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x1.5-2hr lecture per week for 12 weeks, 1x1hr tutorial per week for 10 weeks Prohibitions: MIPH5115 Assessment: 1x2500 word assignment (40%), 1x 8 pages group written report (30%), peer-evaluation of group work contribution (10%), assessable tutorial discussion and facilitation (20%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This unit gives an introduction to the health status of women and children in low and middle income countries and highlights the interconnectedness of women's and children's health, and why it is important to understand women and children's health. It presents some of the major causes of mortality and morbidity and interventions and approaches to improving outcomes from a public health perspective. We discuss case studies, and how public health can address these problems. Each week an expert describes a different topic and discusses their field experiences
Textbooks
Readings are available on the unit's eLearning site
GLOH5124 Humanitarian Crises and Refugee Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Lyndal Trevena, Mrs Priyanthi Abeyratne Session: Intensive October Classes: 15 hours of online lectures and interactive tasks as preparation followed by 4 consecutive days of workshops from October 28th 2019 to 1st November 2019 including a tabletop simulation exercise which is part of the assessment. Prohibitions: MIPH5124 Assessment: reflective writing task - 750 words (10%), simulation performance score (40%), assessable discussion (10%) and assignment - 2500 word- (40%) Mode of delivery: Online, Block mode
This unit gives students an overview of global health aspects of forced migration and humanitarian emergencies. This includes considering problems faced by government and non-government organisations in humanitarian emergency relief efforts as well as the increasing pressures of forced migration resulting from these. Topics covered in the unit include international and human rights law, the role of donor agencies, refugee health, nutritional emergencies, site planning for refugee camps, water and sanitation, sexual violence, protection of vulnerable groups, and communicable disease surveillance and control.
Textbooks
Readings are available on the unit's eLearning site
GLOH5136 Nutrition in Global Settings
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Michael Dibley Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x2hr interactive learning sessions (summary of main points in learning materials plus exercises or discussion tasks) per week for 10 weeks, which for ol students will be self-paced online discussions; plus 2x0.5 day workshops, which for ol students will be self-paced online discussions using the materials presented to nd students. Assumed knowledge: Introductory knowledge of epidemiology Assessment: 1x2500wd nutrition assessment submission (30%), 1x3500wd nutrition intervention design submission (60%), assessable discussion (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This unit aims to provide students with insights into the major nutrition-related public health problems in low- and middle-income countries; knowledge and practical skills about nutritional assessment; and the design and evaluation of nutritional interventions. The content areas include an overview of nutrition as a major determinant of health and disease; methods to assess community nutritional status; the impact of maternal and child under-nutrition on mortality and overall disease burden; design and evaluation of effective interventions; issues surrounding food security; agriculture and nutrition; and nutrition policies and resources. The unit has two major segments with the first focusing on nutritional assessment and major nutrition-related public health problems in low- and middle-income countries, and the second focusing on design and evaluation of interventions. On completion, students should be able to recognise key nutritional problems facing low- and middle-income countries; have acquired knowledge and practical skills as to how to assess these problems, and have gained insights into different multi-sectoral approaches to address these problems.
Textbooks
Readings are available on the unit's eLearning site
GLOH5201 Global Qualitative Health Research
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sarah Bernays Session: Semester 2 Classes: ol: 12 weeks/ weekly (module) lecture: lecture+ content reading+ exemplar reading+ case study video+ individual activity bm: 9am-3.30pm x 4 days, 9am-12pm x 1 day. workshops made up of individual modules: f2f lecture + content reading + exemplar reading+ case study video+ f2f individual activity. Prohibitions: PUBH5500 or QUAL5005 or QUAL5006 or PUBH5005 Assessment: 1xinterviewing activity (35%); 1x2000-word essay (35%); 3 x multiple choice quizzes (20%); assessable tutorial discussion(10%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
This unit of study introduces you to qualitative research in a global health setting, providing you with core concepts and skills. It is designed for beginners and people who want an advanced-level introduction. Over the course of the unit we will address: What is qualitative research? How is it different from quantitative research? What is its history? What research problems can it address? How do I design a qualitative study? What are the different (and best) ways to generate data? How do you analyse qualitative data? Is methodology different to method? What are ontology and epistemology? What is reflexivity (and aren't qualitative researchers biased)? What are the ethical issues? What is good quality qualitative research? How can I use qualitative evidence in policy or practice? You will get practical experience and skills through carrying out an observation, participating in a focus group, conducting an interview, analysing data, arguing for qualitative research in health, and appraising the quality of published literature. You will hear from working qualitative researchers about how they use qualitative methods in their work. This unit will give you the skills and confidence to begin conducting and using qualitative research.
GLOH5219 Global Health Project Management
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Mu Li Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x1.5 hr lecture per week for 10 weeks, 1x1 day workshop, 1x1.5 hr tutorial per week for 9 weeks, 1x1 day group presentations Prerequisites: GLOH5101 and GLOH5102 OR (PUBH5010 and PUBH5018) Assessment: 1x20 min plus 10min questions group presentation (20%), peer evaluation on group project contribution (15%), 1x4000 word group written assignment (40%), 1x 1000 word individual written assignment (25%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) evening
Effective health projects design and management contributes to the achievement of health and development in developing countries. The Unit aims to give students a good understanding of the concepts and key elements of project design and evaluation, and to demonstrate tools and techniques used in effective project management at different stages. A detailed step by step application of the Logical Framework Approach (LFA) in project design will be presented, including stakeholder analysis, problem and objective analysis, and the logframe matrix. The Unit also gives students an opportunity for hands-on practice through the design of a project in a global setting and allows them to consider the challenges and practical issues faced by people involved in international health project management. The key topic areas covered include: concepts and principles of global health project management; context and situation analysis; the LFA for project design; project management functions including managing information, resources, risk, quality and change; and project monitoring and evaluation. At the end of the course, students should be able to: apply a systematic approach to project planning and management in international settings, apply the key aspects of the LFA to project design; develop a project proposal; recognise challenges and practical issues faced by people involved in global health project management and incorporate those in the project proposal.
Textbooks
Readings are available on the unit's eLearning site
HPOL5007 Global Health Policy
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Carmen Huckel Schneider, Dr Anne Marie Thow Session: Semester 2 Classes: Block mode 2 x 2 day workshops plus 4 tutorials (tutorials offered face-to-face or online).
Online mode: pre-recorded lectures plus 4 online tutorials and week-by-week online activities and discussion. Assessment: 1 x 2000 word essay (35%), Tutorial discussion papers or online discussion (15%), 1 x 3000 word essay (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode, Online
The aim of this unit is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to identify and articulate political and policy processes at the global level, become familiar with institutions and actors involved in global health policy, and utilize strategies for influencing policy making at the global level. We analyse the influence and power of institutions and actors in the development and implementation of global health policy, and investigate the governance of global health policy responses. Teaching makes extensive use of current case studies from recognised experts in the field. By the end of this unit students will be able to: Explain the effects of globalization on health of populations; Demonstrate how events and trends in health and non-health areas affect global health policy; Identify and classify the different types of actors/institutions that influence health policy; Undertake a policy stakeholder analysis with reference to power, influence and interests; Develop strategies to influence global health policy development and implementation; Define global health governance and its role in structuring and regulating global health policy.
Textbooks
Buse K, Mays N, Walt G (2012). Making health policy. Second edition. Open University Press: London.
HPOL5008 Evidence into Policy and Practice
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Carmen Huckel Schneider Session: Semester 1 Classes: Block mode with compulsory intensive workshops on Campus. 2 x 2 day workshops. Course Coordinators will assist students with online advice and supervision for their assignments Corequisites: HPOL5000 and HPOL5001 Assessment: 1 x literature search strategy (10%), 1 x 2000 word evidence based case for a policy or practice change (30%), 1 class presentation of the case for change(20%), 1 x 2500 word evidence based submission to a government consultation or inquiry (40%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
The aim of this unit is to increase students' understanding about the links between evidence and policy and practice and to build skills for making an evidence based case for change and implementing evidence based policy. The teaching of this course will include: lectures, guest presentations from leading policy makers and researchers on current health policy issues and student presentations of how evidence from research can assist them to address real world issues in their jobs. By the end of this unit student will be able to: Use evidence to identify areas that require policy change; Search for and critically appraise evidence for policy design and implementation; Understand key theories of the use of evidence in policy and practice; Critically analyse the role of evidence in policy and political processes; Identify facilitators and barriers to the use of evidence in policy; Use evidence effectively in a case for policy change.
Textbooks
Required and recommended readings and reference lists will be available through eLearning.
INFO5306 Enterprise Healthcare Information Systems
Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures, Tutorials, Laboratories Assumed knowledge: The unit is expected to be taken after introductory courses in related units such as COMP5206 Information Technologies and Systems (or COMP5138/COMP9120 Database Management Systems). Assessment: Through semester assessment (50%) and Final Exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Healthcare systems intimately coupled to ICT have been at the forefront of many of the medical advances in modern society in the past decade. As is already the case in many other service-driven sectors, it is widely recognised that a key approach to solve some of the healthcare challenges is to harness and further ICT innovations. This unit is designed to help fill a massive technology talent gap where one of the biggest IT challenges in history is in the technology transformation of healthcare.
The unit will consist of weekly lectures, a set of group discussions (tutorials) and practical lab sessions. The contents will offer students the opportunity to develop IT knowledge and skills related to all aspects of Enterprise Healthcare Information Systems.
Key Topics covered include: Health Information System e. g. , Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and Radiology IS; Electronic Health Records / Personal Health Records; Health data management; Healthcare Transactions; Health Statistics and Research; Decision Support Systems including Image-based systems; Cost Assessments and Ethics / Privacy; TeleHealth / eHealth; Cases studies with Australian Hospitals.
Guest lecturers from the healthcare industry will be invited. The core of student's assessments will be based on individual research reports (topics related to the current industry IT needs), software / practical assignment and quizzes.
The unit will consist of weekly lectures, a set of group discussions (tutorials) and practical lab sessions. The contents will offer students the opportunity to develop IT knowledge and skills related to all aspects of Enterprise Healthcare Information Systems.
Key Topics covered include: Health Information System e. g. , Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and Radiology IS; Electronic Health Records / Personal Health Records; Health data management; Healthcare Transactions; Health Statistics and Research; Decision Support Systems including Image-based systems; Cost Assessments and Ethics / Privacy; TeleHealth / eHealth; Cases studies with Australian Hospitals.
Guest lecturers from the healthcare industry will be invited. The core of student's assessments will be based on individual research reports (topics related to the current industry IT needs), software / practical assignment and quizzes.
INFO9003 IT for Health Professionals
Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures, Laboratories, Project Work - own time Prohibitions: INFO5003 Assessment: Through semester assessment (50%) and Final Exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Information technologies (IT) and systems have emerged as the primary platform to support communication, collaboration, research, decision making, and problem solving in contemporary health organisations. The essential necessity for students to acquire the fundamental knowledge and skills for applying IT effectively for a wide range of tasks is widely recognised. This is an introductory unit of study which prepares students in the Health discipline to develop the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to be competent in the use of information technology for solving a variety of problems. The main focus of this unit is on modelling and problem solving through the effective use of using IT. Students will learn how to navigate independently to solve their problems on their own, and to be capable of fully applying the power of IT tools in the service of their goals in their own health domains while not losing sight of the fundamental concepts of computing.
Students are taught core skills related to general purpose computing involving a range of software tools such as spreadsheets, database management systems, internet search engine. Students will undertake practical tasks including scripting languages and building a small scale application for managing information. In addition, the course will address the issues arising from the wide-spread use of information technology in a variety of Health area.
Students are taught core skills related to general purpose computing involving a range of software tools such as spreadsheets, database management systems, internet search engine. Students will undertake practical tasks including scripting languages and building a small scale application for managing information. In addition, the course will address the issues arising from the wide-spread use of information technology in a variety of Health area.
LAWS6252 Legal Reasoning and the Common Law System
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Alexandra Fowler Session: Intensive April,Intensive August,Intensive March,Intensive September Classes: Intensive March S1CIMR (Group A): Feb 25, 26, 28 and Mar 1 (9-5); Intensive April S1CIAP (Group B): Mar 18, 19 and 25, 26 (9-5); Intensive August S2CIAU (Group C): Aug 5, 6 and 8, 9 (9-5); Intensive September S2CISE (Group D): Aug 26, 27 and Sep 2, 3 (9-5) Prohibitions: LAWS6881 Assessment: Assessment: in-class test (30%) and assignment (70%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Students are recommended to enrol well in advance of classes in order to complete pre-class readings (normally available to enrolled students 3 weeks prior to the first class). Law graduates from a non-common law jurisdiction are also recommended to complete classes for this unit during the first week of their commencing semester.
Academic Profile https://sydney.edu.au/law/about/our-people.html. The unit is also available on a Continuing Professional Development basis https://sydney.edu.au/law/cpd/
This is a compulsory unit for all postgraduate students who do not hold a law degree or equivalent from a common law jurisdiction entering the: Master of Administrative Law and Policy; Master of Business Law; Master of Environmental Law; Master of Environmental Science and Law; Master of Health Law; Master of Labour Law and Relations as well as Graduate Diplomas offered in these programs. The unit has been designed to equip students with the necessary legal skills and legal knowledge to competently apply themselves in their chosen area of law. Instruction will cover the legislative process; the judiciary and specialist tribunals; precedent; court hierarchies; legal reasoning; constitutional law; administrative law; contracts; and torts. Some elements of the unit will be tailored in accordance with the requirements of the particular specialist programs.
LAWS6848 Law, Business and Healthy Lifestyles
This unit of study is not available in 2019
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Roger Magnusson Session: Intensive September Classes: Intro Class: Aug 6 (6-8) then Aug 16, 17 and Sep 13, 14 (9-4.30) Assessment: Option 1: one short response question (20%) and 6000wd essay (80%) or Option 2: one short response question (20%), 3000-3500wd essay (40%) and one take-home exam question (40%) or Option 3: one short response question (20%) and two 3000-3500wd essays (80%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit is about legal and regulatory responses to tobacco use, obesity, poor diet, harmful use of alcohol and sedentary lifestyle - the leading causes of preventable disease in Australia, in high-income countries generally, and increasingly, in developing economies. Cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and tobacco-related diseases (known as 'non-communicable diseases' or NCDs) are society's greatest killers. But what can law do - and what should law be doing - to prevent them? Unlike other health threats, NCDs and their risk factors are partly caused by consumer choices that are lived out every day across the country. The challenge of encouraging healthier lifestyles cannot be separated, then, from the regulation of the businesses that all too often have a vested interest in unhealthy lifestyles. Law's relationship with smoking, alcohol and food is complex and contested. Nevertheless, governments around the world are experimenting with a wide range of legal strategies to encourage healthier lifestyles. This unit will focus on developments in Australia and the United States, placing legal developments in these countries in an international context. During the course, we will confront some important over-arching questions. What are the global determinants of NCDs, and to what extent are global solutions needed? What do global solutions look like? To what extent should law intervene to influence the behaviour of populations-as distinct from treating lifestyle-related risk factors as the personal responsibility of each individual? Does a regulatory approach to the prevention of NCDs imply coercion? Does it signal the emergence of the 'nanny state'? Does progress depend on motivating people to consciously improve their habits and lifestyles? Is it possible to regulate business without micro-managing or dictating commercial decisions and 'legislating the recipe for tomato ketchup?' Throughout the unit, students will be encouraged to explore the tension between personal responsibility and freedom, and the broader public interest in a healthy population and a productive economy. Key topics include: Frameworks for thinking about law, and environments that support healthier lifestyles; Global health governance and the prevention of non-communicable diseases; Tobacco control: where to from here? Personal responsibility for health, and law's role; Regulating alcohol; Obesity prevention; and Law's role in improving diet and nutrition, and encouraging active living.
LAWS6920 Global Health Law
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Lawrence Gostin Session: Intensive July Classes: Jul 9-12 (10-5.30) Assessment: Option 1: 7000wd essay (80%) and simulation participation and contribution (20%) or Option 2: 4000wd essay (50%), simulation participation and contribution (20%) and assignment (30%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Academic Profile https://sydney.edu.au/law/about/our-people.html. The unit is also available on a Continuing Professional Development basis https://sydney.edu.au/law/cpd/
Today, domestic health and global health are recognized as intertwined and inseparable. The determinants of health (e.g. pathogens, air, water, goods, and lifestyle choices) are increasingly international in origin, expanding the need for health governance structures that transcend traditional and increasingly inadequate national approaches. In this unit, students will gain an in-depth understanding of global health law through careful examination of the major contemporary problems in global health, the principal international legal instruments governing global health, the principal international organizations, and innovative solutions for global health governance in the 21st Century. Class sessions will consist of a combination of lecture and interactive discussion, culminating in a global health law simulation. The class will cover naturally occurring infectious diseases (e.g. extensively drug resistant tuberculosis, malaria, Zika virus, and HIV/AIDS), past (e.g., SARS, influenza A H1N1 and Ebola) and future (e.g., Influenza pandemics), bioterrorism events (e.g., anthrax or smallpox), and/or major chronic diseases caused by modern lifestyles (e.g., obesity or tobacco use).
Textbooks
Lawrence O. Gostin, Global Health Law (March 2014) available from Harvard University Press or Amazon.com
MECO6919 Health Communication
Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x2hr seminar/week Assessment: 1x1000wd commentary and critique (20%), 1x500wd discussion leadership (15%), 1x1500wd research project on health issue (25%), 1x3000wd research paper (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit introduces key concepts in health communication. Students will explore micro- and macro-level theories of health (behaviour) communication that inform the design and implementation of health communication campaigns, planned and unplanned effects of communication campaigns, and the evaluation of such campaigns. It aims to give students a critical and practical understanding of theory and research concerning the role of communication in health promotion efforts.
NTDT5608 Community and Public Health Nutrition
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Vasant Hirani Session: Semester 2 Classes: 4 hours lectures and 2 tutorials per week Corequisites: NTDT5305 and NTDT5307 Assessment: 2 hour exam (50%); two assignments (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: NTDT5608 is available as an elective to students in the Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Master of Medicine as well as the Master of Science in Medicine (Metabolic Health). For these students, there are no prerequisites for entry into NTDT5608. However, these students must apply for Special Permission from the unit of study coordinator in order to be enrolled.
This unit of study introduces students to the concepts and principles underlying, and issues associated with, nutrition in community and public health contexts. It covers the principles of health promotion and teaches the students how to plan, implement and evaluate nutrition promotion strategies. The scope and distribution of chronic diseases and the role of nutrition in the etiology of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity is examined. This unit of study also investigates the food habits of culturally and linguistically diverse groups, nutritional intakes and requirements of people across the lifespan, and the current nutrition policies and guidelines aimed at preventing chronic diseases.
Textbooks
Lawrence M and Worseley (eds). Public Health Nutrition - from Principles to Practice. Sydney: Allen and Unwin. 2007.
SEXH5008 Sex and Society
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar, Associate Professor Iryna Zablotska-Manos Session: Semester 2a Classes: 2 hours of lectures per week, half semester, which can be taken either face-to-face or online. International students including Australia Awards Scholarshipstudents must enrol in the face-to-face mode. Prohibitions: SEXH5414 Assessment: Written assignment (70%); Online quiz (20%); Online discussions (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This unit will explore determinants of sexuality from a societal perspective, with particular reference to their potential impacts on public health. 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 on sexual and reproductive health including HIV. Course content will include diversity; adolescent sexual development; sex education; sexual assault, gender; sexual orientation and sexual behaviour.
SEXH5205 Adolescent Sexual Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Fiona Robards, Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar Session: Semester 2 Classes: Fully online Assessment: Discussion board participation (30%); Case study (30%); 1500 Word essay (40%) Mode of delivery: Online
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 from a global perspective. The main areas of learning are: adolescent sexuality, adolescent sexual health, reproductive health issues in adolescence, diversity, legal and ethical issues and sexual health promotion. Additional emphasis on a deeper exploration of an area of adolescent sexual health that is of particular interest to the student. On completion of this unit of study, students should be able to: (i) 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 optimise communication with adolescents and explore legal, ethical and public health implications of adolescent sexuality; and (ii) Understand and describe one area of adolescent sexual health that the student chooses to study in depth from a list of suggestions.
SEXH5405 Contraception and Preconception Care
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kirsten Black Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online plus block intensive mode, 3 days, 9am-5pm Assessment: Discussion board participation (10%); Online quiz (20%); Group case study presentation and reflective report (20%); Written assignments(50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit of study aims to provide students with an understanding of fertility control across the reproductive lifespan including: hormonal and non-hormonal reversible contraceptive methods; emergency contraception; and permanenet methods of contraception. The impact of age, culture, tradition, society, personal beliefs, disability and health on contraceptive choices and reproductive health will be explored. The consequences of unintended pregnancy and the impact of unsafe abortion will be discussed. The unit is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills in the field of preconception care. The latest evidence regarding optimisation of preconception health will be emphasized particularly for women with diabetes, obesity and other medical conditions.
Textbooks
Prescribed: Contraception: An Australian clinical practice handbook. 4th Edition, 2017. Recommended: Reproductive and sexual health: an Australian clinical practice handbook. 3rd Edition. Family Planning NSW, 2016.
SEXH5407 Sex Gender and Sexuality
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Amanda Robb Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online plus block intensive mode, 4 days, 9am-5pm Assessment: Essay (30%); Presentation (30%); Reflective essay (30%); Discussion board participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit will equip students to develop a foundational knowledge and skills to work with gender and sexuality issues, including gender and sexual discourses and practices. Students will develop an understanding of sensitive practice skills to work with the LGBTIQ community. The unit will also introduce the social construction and attitudes in modern society regarding gendered violence, gendered inequality, and gender performativity. Students will be able to formulate therapeutic applications respond ethically and empathically to the specific gendered issues which present in client groups. On completion of the unit, students should be able to: (i) Have a foundational knowledge and sensitivity with gender terminology; (ii) Evaluate various sexual differences and practices within gender and sexual diverse individuals and communities; (iii) Explore the psychosocial issues surrounding gender and sexual minorities in the community; (iv) Respond to issues related gendered violence; and (v) Apply therapeutic skills and tools in response to gender and sexuality, including gender and sexual diverse individuals/communities.
SEXH5412 Sexual Health and Relationships Education
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Amanda Robb Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online plus block intensive mode, 3 days, 9am-5pm Assessment: Discussion board participation (10%); Critical essay (25%); Education lesson plan (20%); Individual health education sesson (25%); Reflective essay (20%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit of study will explore the evidence base, implications and considerations when delivering sexual health and relationships education from a public health perspective. Students will develop skills in the development and facilitation of training and education to different population groups. Students will be able to evaluate knowledge needs and synthesise information related to sexual and relationship education. On completion of the unit, students should be able to: (i) Plan and conduct a session which facilitates learning for a chosen population group/community using appropriate health education and learning frameworks; (ii) Develop the skills to enable people within a variety of settings to enhance their sexual health and relationship literacy; and (iii) Critically appraise various approaches to sexual health and relationship education development.
SEXH5414 Public Health: Sexual and Reproductive Health
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar, Associate Professor Kirsten Black, Associate Professor Iryna Zablotska-Manos Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2-4 hours of lectures per week, which can be taken either face-to-face or online. International students including Australian Awards Scholarship students must enrol into the face-to-face version Prohibitions: SEXH5008 or SEXH5418 or SEXH5419 Assessment: Written assignments (70%); Online quizzes (20%); Discussion board participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This unit of study is a combination of three (3), two (2) credit point units (SEXH5008, SEXH5418 and SEXH5419) and deals with public health aspects of sexual and reproductive health (SRH), Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV. This unit addresses sexuality, sex education, HIV/AIDS and STIs, unintended pregnancies, access to SRH services, maternal mortality, sexual violence, sexual and reproductive rights and discrimination/stigmatisation of vulnerable populations. Aspects of HIV/STIs and reproductive health will be discussed in the context of the UN's Sustainable Development Golas (SDGs) focusing on SDG 3 on health and SDG 5 on gender equality and women's and girls' empowerment. The unit further explores the epidemiological, societal and population aspects of SRH, STIs and HIV. Surveillance strategies, policy development and legislative responses will be discussed, with regards to the potential public health consequences. Emphasis will be placed on the delivery of effective prevention and management strategies.
Textbooks
Van Look, P., (2011). Sexual and Reproductive Health: A Public Health Perspective. 1st Ed. Elsevier: ISBN: 9780128102329
SEXH5418 Public Health Aspects of Reproductive Health
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Kirsten Black, Associate Professor Iryna Zablotska-Manos Session: Semester 2a Classes: 2 hours of interactive learning per week including lectures and discussion sessions, half semester, which can be taken either face-to-face or online. International students including Australia Awards Scholarship students must enrol in the face-to-face mode. Assessment: Written assignment (70%); Online quiz (20%); Online discussions (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
This unit deals with a range of public health aspects of reproductive and maternal health including maternal morbidity and mortality,unintended pregnancies, sexual violence, sexual and reproductive rights and access to sexual and reproductive health services. Emphasis will be placed on the delivery of effective prevention and management strategies. Aspects of reproductive health will be discussed in the context of Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focussing on SDG 3 on health and SDG 5 on gender equality and womens and girls empowerment.
Textbooks
Van Look, P., (2011). Sexual and Reproductive Health: A Public Health Perspective. 1st Ed. Elsevier: ISBN: 9780128102329; and Obstetrics and gynecology in low-resource settings: A practical guide / edited by Nawal M. Nour. Publisher Cambridge, Massachusetts: Harvard University Press, 2016.
SEXH5419 Public Health Aspects of HIV and STIs
Credit points: 2 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Shailendra Sawleshwarkar, Associate Professor Iryna Zablotska-Manos Session: Semester 2b Classes: 2 hours of lectures per week, half semester, which can be taken either face-to-face or online. International students including Australia Awards Scholarship students must enrol in the face-to-face mode. Assessment: Written assignment (70%); Online quiz (20%); Online discussions (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day, Online
The unit aims to provide a public health perspective on the impact of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV. On completion of this unit, students should be able to: (i) Understand the underlying principles of the surveillance systems used to monitor STIs and HIV; (ii) Understand the core risk activity groups involved in the transmissions of STIs and HIV; (iii) Understand how the epidemiologies of STIs and HIV vary within and between societies; (iv) Understand the public health impacts of STIs and HIV; and (v) Understand effective preventative strategies at individual and community levels. Course content will include an introduction to the basic biology of HIV and STIs; epidemilogy and surveillance methods; impact of HIV and STIs on vulnerable at-risk populations; prevention technologies and policy approaches.
WARC5001 Research Translation, Impact and Evaluation
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Julie Redfern Session: Semester 2 Classes: online lectures, discussion forums, video tutorials Assumed knowledge: This unit of study is best suited to students who have a solid understanding of research methodology and clinical trials. It is not limited to but is ideally suited to people with a clinical background. Assessment: online quizzes (10%); case-based discussion boards (20%); research proposal (40%); evaluation assignment (30%) Mode of delivery: Online
To optimise healthcare delivery, we need evidence-based strategies to enable research translation and to assess impact. This unit of study will teach these skills including fostering and maintaining stakeholder engagement, pragmatic study design, cost effectiveness analysis, recognising and managing barriers and enablers to implementation and post-research translation. Participation in case-based discussions and preparation of a research proposal will enable students to develop the skills to enhance impact and hasten adoption of research into routine care. This unit of study will have a practical focus with the aim of facilitating students to deliver impactful research within the clinical setting.