This free online course explores the principles and concepts of Epidemiology, the study of disease and health patterns.

Epidemiology is often described as ‘public health science’ as it examines health and disease patterns among populations. In the wake of various epidemics and a pandemic in the last decade, it is clear that this science is of utmost importance. This course will cover some concepts and principles in Epidemiology and outline the process of carrying out studies in the scientific discipline. It begins with an introduction to Epidemiology, highlighting its importance, regulations and the basics of designing epidemiological studies.

Next, you will learn about diseases' occurrence, types, and variations by place, time and person. You will discover ‘disease clusters’ and the process involved in investigating outbreaks. We will expose you to the measures of risks, disease frequency and methods for disease prevention. Finally, study the role of Epidemiology in public health and disease prevention and the concepts of population and demography as they relate to the field of Epidemiology.

The concepts and principles covered in this course would be fundamental to prospective public health professionals looking to understand Epidemiology. Public health experts would also find this helpful as reference material. Anyone looking to understand epidemics, the process of disease spread, disease patterns and disease prevention in a population would find this course useful. Start the course now and in three hours or less, you will gain insight into health, disease patterns and the process of studying them.