Skip to main content
PHS318Health Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Principles Of Epidemiology

This course introduces the principles of epidemiology, focusing on the study of disease distribution and determinants in populations. It explores various types of epidemiological studies, basic measurements, and strategies for understanding disease causation. The course also covers the epidemiology of communicable and non-communicable diseases, including sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS. Students will learn about epidemics, surveillance, and prevention methods, equipping them with essential knowledge for community health practice.

Transform this course into personalized study materials with AI

156h
Study Time
13
Weeks
12h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
EpidemiologyCommunicable DiseasesHIV/AIDSDisease CausationPublic Health

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
Math Level
Basic Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Epidemiology Principles

2

Disease Causation

3

Communicable Diseases

4

Non-Communicable Diseases

5

HIV/AIDS

6

Statistical Measurements

Total Topics6 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Community Health Worker

Apply your skills in this growing field

Public Health Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Disease Surveillance Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Health Educator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Infection Control Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

HealthcareGovernment AgenciesNon-Governmental OrganizationsResearch InstitutionsInternational Health Organizations

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Introduction to Epidemiology

4h

Unit 1: Introduction to Epidemiology

4 study hours
  • Define epidemiology and its key components.
  • Discuss the historical context and evolution of epidemiology.
  • Explain the relevance of epidemiology to community health practice.
Week
2

Module 1: Introduction to Epidemiology

4h

Unit 2: Types of Epidemiological Studies

4 study hours
  • Describe descriptive studies and their application in epidemiology.
  • Explain analytical studies and their role in hypothesis testing.
  • Differentiate between observational and experimental studies.
Week
3

Module 1: Introduction to Epidemiology

4h

Unit 3: Basic Measurements in Epidemiology

4 study hours
  • Define incidence and prevalence rates.
  • Calculate and interpret crude, specific, and standardized rates.
  • Explain the uses of health statistics in nursing practice.
Week
4

Module 2: Epidemiology and Communicable/Non Communicable Disease

4h

Unit 1: Strategies of Epidemiology

4 study hours
  • Identify the chain of epidemiology and its components.
  • Explain the concept of disease causation and ecological factors.
  • Discuss host and environmental factors in disease development.
Week
5

Module 2: Epidemiology and Communicable/Non Communicable Disease

4h

Unit 2: Epidemiology of Communicable Diseases

4 study hours
  • Define communicable and non-communicable diseases.
  • Identify disease-causing agents and infectious agents.
  • Explain concepts such as incubation period, infectivity, and immunity.
Week
6

Module 2: Epidemiology and Communicable/Non Communicable Disease

4h

Unit 3: Epidemics

4 study hours
  • Define epidemics and related terms.
  • Explain the propagation of epidemics and types of spread.
  • Describe the steps involved in investigating an epidemic.
Week
7

Module 3: Sexually Transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS

4h

Unit 1: Sexually Transmitted Infection

4 study hours
  • Define sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Identify common types of STIs, such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and genital herpes.
  • Discuss the consequences of STIs on reproductive health and society.
Week
8

Module 3: Sexually Transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS

4h

Unit 2: Human Immuno-Virus/Acquired Immune Diseases Syndrome

4 study hours
  • Define HIV/AIDS and its impact on the immune system.
  • Explain the different types of HIV and their characteristics.
  • Describe the structure of HIV and its replication process.
Week
9

Module 3: Sexually Transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS

4h

Unit 3: Demographic Incidence and Prevalence of HIV/AIDS

4 study hours
  • Analyze the global demographic view of HIV/AIDS.
  • Discuss the UN's perspective on the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
  • Examine the epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
Week
10

Module 3: Sexually Transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS

4h

Unit 4: Tests for HIV

4 study hours
  • Describe the HIV test and its purpose.
  • Explain the process of testing infants for HIV.
  • Identify possible HIV test results and their implications.
Week
11

Module 3: Sexually Transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS

4h

Unit 5: Prevention, Treatment and Control of HIV/AIDS

4 study hours
  • Explain the rationale for combination therapy in HIV/AIDS treatment.
  • Discuss other pharmaceutical care services for HIV/AIDS patients.
  • Describe preventive measures for target groups, medical personnel, and the general public.
Week
12

Module 1: Introduction to Epidemiology

6h

Module 1: Introduction to Epidemiology (Review)

6 study hours
  • Review all units from Module 1.
  • Practice applying epidemiological concepts to case studies.
  • Prepare for Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs)
Week
13

Module 2: Epidemiology and Communicable/Non Communicable Disease

6h

Modules 2 & 3: Epidemiology and Communicable/Non Communicable Disease, Sexually Transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS (Review)

6 study hours
  • Review all units from Modules 2 and 3.
  • Focus on key concepts related to disease prevention and control.
  • Prepare for final examination by reviewing learning outcomes.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create concept maps linking Modules 1-3 key epidemiological principles.

2

Practice calculating incidence and prevalence rates using sample data from Units 3 and 4.

3

Review the modes of transmission and prevention strategies for communicable diseases from Units 5-7.

4

Focus on understanding the HIV life cycle and treatment options from Units 8-10.

5

Study the demographic trends and surveillance methods related to HIV/AIDS from Units 11-13.

Related Courses

Other courses in Health Sciences that complement your learning