London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

The module focuses on understanding of the epidemiological methods by which evidence has been obtained on environmental risks to health: how we know what we think we know about such risks. Its main focus is therefore on principles, methods, interpretation and critical thinking. It concentrates on methods common in environmental epidemiology, including time series studies and risk assessment methods, and considers the evidence for the main areas of current interest in environmental epidemiology. These include: air pollution, wastewater reuse, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, climate change/planetary health, as well as disease cluster investigations. The intention is to equip students with a good understanding of how to design an epidemiological study, to investigate an environmental hazard to health and how to interpret evidence from published literature.

The overall module aim is to develop students’ ability to apply theoretical and practical tools in designing and analysing the studies in environmental epidemiology, with main emphasis on the industrialised world.

Intended learning outcomes

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

1.  Explain the main methodological issues in environmental epidemiology, specifically concerning the investigation of the health effects of pollution of air, water and land, including the effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation and climate change.
2. Assess and critically interpret scientific data relating to potential environmental hazards to health.
3. Plan, conduct and interpret the initial investigation into a putative disease cluster.
4. Explain and illustrate the principles of semi-ecological cohort, time-series and case crossover studies for the investigation of the health effects of environmental exposures.
5. Describe and apply methods of quantitative risk assessment in real environmental health issues.

Assessment

This module is assessed by:

• A 1,500 word 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.