London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

This module aims to develop students’ ability to appraise and apply key methodologies for assessing and controlling environmental risks to human health.

Intended learning outcomes

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

1. Describe the application of the four stages of quantitative risk assessment (hazard identification, dose-response assessment, exposure assessment and risk characterisation) to a range of environmental health risks.
2. Demonstrate how scientific evidence is translated into practice in the control of environmental hazards.
3. Demonstrate how economic techniques, such as cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analyses, and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) can support environmental health policy making.
4. Describe and apply health impact assessment methods to appraise policy interventions and set priorities for environmental health risks.
5. Evaluate the application of the precautionary principle and examine issues of equity in the context of environmental health policy.

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.