Infectious diseases continue to dominate the list of global public health threats. Understanding the transmission of infections and the principles underlying their effective control is an increasingly important global public health issue. This module on infectious disease epidemiology takes a quantitative, methodological focus, aiming to apply epidemiological principles and methods specifically to the study of infectious diseases, including how to determine whether diseases have an infectious cause, how to measure transmissibility of infections, how to conduct outbreak investigations, and how to measure vaccine efficacy. Examples of a wide range of infectious diseases are covered, including COVID-19, HIV, TB and Malaria.
The overall module aim is to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of important concepts in the epidemiology of infectious diseases, and many of the skills to apply these concepts in practice.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module a student will be able to:
- Explain key concepts, terms and epidemiological measures used to describe the frequency, distribution and transmissibility of infectious diseases, and how these measures are estimated in practice.
- Design, conduct, analyse, interpret and report an outbreak investigation.
- Explain the principles underlying simple mathematical models of infectious diseases, and the application of these models to epidemiological data.
- Explain how vaccine effectiveness is measured, and factors influencing the effectiveness of different vaccination strategies.
- Interpret and evaluate surveillance data on infectious diseases.
- Explain key features of the epidemiology and control of infectious diseases of global importance.
Assessment
This module is assessed by:
- Group work (40%).
- A 2,000 - 3,300 word Assessed Assignment (60%).
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.
Please see the module specification for any pre-requisites for this module.
Applications for distance learning modules can be made via the online application portal.
Application deadline and other key dates
| MSc, PG Dip, PG Cert and individual modules | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | 14 September 2026 |
| Registration deadline (new students) | 12 October 2026 |
| Programme starts | October 2026 |