This module provides an introduction to the use of mathematical modelling of infectious diseases. It provides students with an introduction to the theory of infectious disease modelling, illustrates applications of models in infectious disease research and determining the impact of interventions and provides the skills to develop and apply simple models of infectious diseases and interpret infectious disease data.

The overall module aim is to introduce students to key methods for setting up models of the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases and their application.

Intended learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the module a student will be able to:

1. Understand the basic methods for setting up deterministic and stochastic infectious disease models and identify appropriate model structures/key epidemiological parameters to describe the dynamics of infectious diseases;
2. Describe some of the host and pathogen factors determining variation in infectious diseases over time and adapt simple models to incorporate these factors;
3. Design simple mathematical models to apply to infectious disease epidemiological data, incorporating appropriate control strategies and analyse and interpret the results;
4. Critically read modelling papers to identify their strengths and limitations.

Mode of delivery

This module is delivered predominantly face-to-face. Where specific teaching methods (lectures, seminars, discussion groups) are noted in this module specification these will be delivered by predominantly face-to-face sessions. There will be a combination of live and interactive activities (synchronous learning) as well as self-directed study (asynchronous learning).

Assessment

The assessment for this module has been designed to measure student learning against the module intended learning outcomes (ILOs) as listed above. The grade for summative assessment(s) only will go towards the overall award GPA. The assessment for this module will be online.

1. Group Work (20%)
2. Timed Test (in-module test e.g. MCQ - 80%).

Credits

• CATS: 15
• ECTS: 7.5

Module specification

For full information regarding this module please see the module specification.

Please note: information based on the 2024-25 module specification subject to change for 2025-26 entry.