BPH410 Introduction to Epidemiology (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH400 , BPH405 , HHSM302  
This introductory course considers the meaning, scope, and applications of epidemiology to public health practice and the uses of vital statistical data in the scientific appraisal of community health. Students learn and apply basic epidemiology concepts within a population-based framework, and examine the study of determinants and distributions of disease in the population.  More broadly, students analyze and research health outcomes using a population health lens. Students actively apply epidemiological concepts to current health environments, health trends, emerging research, acute and chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and evolving public health concerns/problems.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1.  Define elements of the field of epidemiology and examples of problems that are addressed by epidemiologists. 
2.  Describe the contributions of the field of epidemiology to public health.
3.  Discuss how health data are collected, analyzed, and used to study diseases in populations.
4.  Differentiate between a statistical association and a causal relationship.