London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

This module seeks to develop an understanding of the key features of a variety of trial designs and provide students with the opportunity to critique their appropriate use. The appropriate application of statistical principles to trial design and analysis will be discussed. Appropriate interpretation of trial results and analysis according to the trial design are also considered.

The overall module aim is to familiarise students with a variety of trial designs and their fundamental characteristics, and provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate their appropriate use.

Intended learning outcomes

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

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the core principles of trial designs, their methodological strengths and limitations, and application.
2. Critically evaluate which trial design is most appropriate to the research question.
3. Demonstrate application of statistical principles to trial design and analysis.
4. Interpret the results from the analysis of trials according to the trial design.

Assessment

The assessment strategy for the Trial Designs module includes:

• A 2,000 words Assessed Assignment (60%).
• A 2,000 words Time Limited Assignment (40%).

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.