MPH8006 : Applied Epidemiology and Data Science
MPH8006 : Applied Epidemiology and Data Science
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Andrew Kingston
- Co-Module Leader: Dr Laura Woods
- Lecturer: Dr Dexter Canoy
- Owning School: Population Health Sciences
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
This module aims to teach advanced epidemiological and statistical methods. Students will learn to navigate, use and integrate diverse health data sources, alongside epidemiological studies to conduct innovative and responsible public health analyses and research.
Outline Of Syllabus
Topics include: advanced statistical methodology and models, biases in epidemiological studies, big data and data linkage, basic machine learning, information governance, and emerging trends in epidemiology.
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Understand advanced statistical methodologies for analysing epidemiological data from diverse sources
2. Differentiate between various advanced analytical techniques in epidemiology and recognize appropriate applications
3. Explain the impact of big data on public health research and identify emerging trends in epidemiology
4. Understand principles of replicability and transparency in research, including information governance and data security
5. Understand the process of data linkage and its importance in comprehensive epidemiological and public health investigation
Intended Skill Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Analyse epidemiological data using advanced statistical methods appropriate for a given epidemiological context
2. Ensure research replicability and transparency through proper data governance and security practices
3. Communicate epidemiological findings effectively through oral presentations, and scientific publications
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 42 | 1:00 | 42:00 | Preparing for and completing a written report on the analysis of a large data set. |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 2 | 1:00 | 2:00 | Group paper presentations |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 25 | 1:00 | 25:00 | Preparing for and completing multiple-choice exam. |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 20 | 1:00 | 20:00 | Present in person: Lectures including interactive activities |
| Structured Guided Learning | Academic skills activities | 25 | 1:00 | 25:00 | Technical exercises and guided reading |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Workshops | 10 | 1:00 | 10:00 | Present in Person: Computer practical’s - interactive activities around teaching |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Drop-in/surgery | 1 | 1:00 | 1:00 | Present in person or online (to aid PT students): one-hour drop-in sessions for individual student support. |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 65 | 1:00 | 65:00 | Independent study |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 10 | 1:00 | 10:00 | Skills practice: complete practical exercises set in workshops |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The teaching methods in this module are designed to integrate theoretical knowledge and practical skills for advanced epidemiological research. Lectures provide essential frameworks for understanding statistical methodologies and emerging trends. Workshops offer hands-on experience with real-world data, reinforcing students' ability to apply advanced methods. Structured guided learning deepens understanding through technical exercises and independent study. Drop-in sessions provide personalised support, enhancing problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Together, these methods ensure students can confidently understand, apply, and communicate advanced epidemiological analyses, fully aligning with the module's learning outcomes.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Examination | 60 | 2 | M | 40 | Present in person closed book Inspera MCQ exam with 20 questions. |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral Presentation | 2 | M | 60 | Present in Person group oral presentation - 20 minutes with 5 - 10 minutes Q&A Session and 500 word reflective report. |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral Presentation | 2 | M | 15 minute, group presentation, present in person or online. Formative assessment to prepare for summative assessment. This will run concurrently with the practical sessions across the duration of the module. |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The assessment format for this module is two-fold:
Digital Examination: A 60-minute, 20 question closed-book MCQ exam, constituting 40% of the overall assessment using Inspera digital exam. This exam will test students’ understanding of advanced epidemiological concepts and statistical methodologies. [25 hours including preparation and examination time].
Presentation and Reflection Report: Students will deliver a 20-minute structured presentation with a 5-10 minute Q&A session, paired with a 500 word reflective report. This component constitutes 60% of the overall assessment. [35 hours including preparation and presentation time].
1. Presentation (50%): Students will present their data analysis, including methodology, results, interpretations, and implications. They will be assessed on their ability to apply advanced statistical methods, differentiate analytical techniques, explain the impact of big data, ensure research replicability, and communicate findings effectively.
1.2. Reflective Report (10%): A concise 500-word report summarising their decision-making process, rationale, and key insights. This report reinforces critical thinking and reflective practice.
Formative presentations will be conducted in groups. Each group will present in person or online (to accommodate part-time students) for a duration of 15 minutes followed by a 5-minute Q&A session. These presentations will be recorded for further tutor and peer feedback.’
This assessment format ensures students achieve the module’s learning objectives and knowledge outcomes, preparing them for professional roles in public health and epidemiology.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- MPH8006's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- MPH8006's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
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The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
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