Epidemiology
BIOL-40377
This introductory course explores the principles and methods of epidemiology, the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. Examine how epidemiology is used to identify and control disease outbreaks, track disease trends, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions. Learn the principles and methods of epidemiology, including study designs, measures of disease frequency, and sources of bias and confounding. Through engaging lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises, you will gain a deep understanding of how epidemiological research is conducted and its role in public health. With a focus on real-world applications, explore the use of surveillance systems, outbreak investigations, and screening programs to track and prevent the spread of diseases. Participants examine the epidemiology of infectious and chronic diseases, as well as environmental and occupational health hazards.
This course is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in public health, healthcare, or biomedical research.
Format
This course is offered in an online asynchronous format. There are no set meeting times, however, students follow a weekly schedule and there will be deadlines to meet in terms of course requirements. This course cannot be completed at an accelerated rate.
Transferring for College Credit
Many courses at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies may be eligible for college credit at UC San Diego or other institutions. Credit transfer is determined by the receiving institution. We recommend consulting with the registrar's office at your intended institution before enrolling to confirm how your courses will transfer.
Learning Objectives
- Differentiate between association and causation in epidemiological studies
- Apply outbreak investigation principles to real-world case studies
- Interpret surveillance data to identify disease patterns and trends
- Evaluate the strengths and limitations of epidemiological study designs.
- Understand the ethical considerations in intervention studies
- Identify common sources of bias and confounding in epidemiological studies
- Evaluate the performance of screening tests
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
Gordis epidemiology 6th
by David D Celentano, Moyseses Szklo
ISBN / ASIN: 9780323552295
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 2/3/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
Aimee Ferraro
Aimee Ferraro is an epidemiologist with over 20 years of experience conducting mixed methods research in diverse public health settings. Since completing a CDC/CSTE Applied Epidemiology Fellowship with the Pennsylvania Department of Health, her work has focused on social determinants of health and infectious diseases such as HIV, Zika virus, and COVID-19. She holds a dual B.A. in Biology and Psychology from Johns Hopkins University, an M.P.H. with emphasis in Epidemiology from George Washington University, and a Ph.D. in Health and Behavioral Sciences with specialization in Social Epidemiology from the University of Colorado at Denver.
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 4/14/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
Aimee Ferraro
Aimee Ferraro is an epidemiologist with over 20 years of experience conducting mixed methods research in diverse public health settings. Since completing a CDC/CSTE Applied Epidemiology Fellowship with the Pennsylvania Department of Health, her work has focused on social determinants of health and infectious diseases such as HIV, Zika virus, and COVID-19. She holds a dual B.A. in Biology and Psychology from Johns Hopkins University, an M.P.H. with emphasis in Epidemiology from George Washington University, and a Ph.D. in Health and Behavioral Sciences with specialization in Social Epidemiology from the University of Colorado at Denver.