This module explores key concepts and principles in communicable disease control and prevention. Through examining case studies and topical themes, it also provides knowledge and skills to apply these in different contexts and populations.

The overall module aim is to enable students to apply key concepts in communicable disease causation, control, and prevention in different contexts and populations.

Intended learning outcomes

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

1. Differentiate between key mechanisms of communicable disease transmission and propose realistic public health prevention and control strategies, applying basic epidemiological methods in the investigation and management of outbreaks.
2. Apply the principles of surveillance and characteristics of different surveillance systems, their strengths and weaknesses and their application to disease control.
3. Evaluate policies and programmes used in the prevention and control of important infectious diseases, applying ethical frameworks to examine issues involved in their implementation.
4. Distinguish basic differences between types of vaccines and recognise issues related to designing, implementing and evaluating vaccination programmes.
5. Design basic communicable disease surveillance, prevention and control strategies, accounting for biological, clinical and epidemiological features of a disease and other key contextual factors.

Assessment

This module is assessed by:

• An Assessed Assignment (30%).
• A Time Limited Assessment (70%).

Mode of delivery

Our distance learning modules are delivered entirely online via directed self-study and online materials via the Virtual Learning Environment.

Module duration

Distance learning module studies begin at the start of October each year. Students may start their studies at any time once they gain access to Moodle (the virtual learning environment) and study materials, and work through the materials in line with the assessment schedules. The study year runs from the beginning of October through to June examinations. Some students also study between June and September with extended tutorial support (e.g. those undertaking projects, the Clinical Trials integrating report, or two of the Epidemiology modules). Deadlines for submission of coursework vary per programme but are usually in February, March, May, and September.

How you'll study

Our distance learning programmes are predominantly online and largely self-directed study to enable you to study independently and at times convenient to you. You'll have access to tutorial support and the ability to interact with other students and form study groups throughout the study year via the discussions in our Virtual Learning Environment, Moodle.

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 2025-26 module specification subject to change for 2026-27 entry.