Understanding how diseases spread, how they are controlled, and how to interpret health data is crucial in today’s global environment. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Epidemiology is designed to equip participants with a strong foundation in the principles and methods of epidemiological research. Whether working in health care, research, or policy, this course provides essential skills to understand population health trends and improve public health outcomes.
This professional diploma introduces the core concepts of epidemiology and their real-world applications. From disease surveillance to interpreting statistical data, participants will gain the tools needed to analyse public health challenges and design evidence-based responses. The course supports a critical understanding of both communicable and non-communicable diseases and explores how epidemiology plays a central role in health promotion and policy development.
The OSHAA Diploma in Epidemiology is structured to provide a balanced mix of theory and practical application. Participants begin by learning the historical background and foundations of epidemiology before progressing to study patterns of disease, research design, data collection, and statistical analysis. Real-world case studies and scenarios allow participants to apply knowledge to current global health issues, such as outbreaks, environmental hazards, and chronic disease monitoring.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Epidemiology provides clear, accessible, and professionally structured learning for those looking to develop or expand their epidemiological knowledge. With practical case examples, foundational theory, and applied tools, the course empowers participants to make informed decisions in a public health context.
Participants completing this diploma can pursue further study in advanced epidemiology, biostatistics, or public health management. It also provides a solid foundation for roles in health agencies, research organisations, academic institutions, or NGOs focused on global health initiatives.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Epidemiology
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Epidemiology and Public Health Foundations (3 hours)
- Define epidemiology and explain its role in public health
- Understand the historical development and core functions of epidemiology
- Recognise the connection between epidemiological methods and health policy
- Identify key terms, concepts, and the scope of epidemiological research
Measures of Disease Frequency and Epidemiological Calculations (3 hours)
- Calculate and interpret incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates
- Understand risk ratios, rate ratios, and other key epidemiological metrics
- Apply appropriate measures to assess disease burden within populations
- Distinguish between absolute and relative measures of disease occurrence
Descriptive and Analytical Study Designs (4 hours)
- Differentiate between descriptive and analytical studies in epidemiology
- Identify the strengths and limitations of cross-sectional, cohort, and case-control studies
- Understand when and how to apply each study design to real-world research
- Develop basic skills in formulating epidemiological hypotheses
Data Collection Methods and Health Surveillance Systems (6 hours)
- Identify primary and secondary sources of health data
- Understand the principles of effective data collection and management
- Explore national and international health surveillance systems
- Recognise the role of surveillance in detecting disease trends and guiding interventions
Screening Programmes and Diagnostic Test Evaluation (4 hours)
- Understand the purpose and principles of health screening programmes
- Evaluate the effectiveness of diagnostic tests using sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values
- Recognise ethical considerations in population screening
- Apply screening data to assess programme outcomes
Outbreak Investigation and Control Strategies (4 hours)
- Describe the key steps in investigating a disease outbreak
- Analyse transmission patterns and identify sources of infection
- Apply control measures to limit disease spread in various settings
- Use epidemiological evidence to inform public health response strategies
Bias, Confounding, and Validity in Epidemiological Research (3 hours)
- Identify different types of bias and their effects on study results
- Understand confounding variables and how to control for them in study design
- Evaluate the internal and external validity of epidemiological studies
- Improve critical thinking in interpreting research outcomes
Communicable and Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology (3 hours)
- Compare the epidemiological approaches to infectious and chronic diseases
- Understand transmission dynamics of communicable diseases
- Analyse trends and risk factors in non-communicable disease prevalence
- Apply epidemiological tools to plan prevention and control strategies for both disease types
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Epidemiology
- Develop a strong foundation in the principles and practices of modern epidemiology
- Learn how to collect, interpret, and analyse health data for informed decision-making
- Gain the ability to assess disease patterns and identify risk factors within populations
- Strengthen critical thinking and research skills applicable to public health and policy development
- Understand how to design, evaluate, and interpret epidemiological studies
- Acquire practical knowledge for investigating disease outbreaks and public health emergencies
- Enhance the ability to evaluate screening programmes and diagnostic tests effectively
- Improve communication of epidemiological findings to professional and public audiences
- Prepare for roles in health services, research institutions, NGOs, and governmental health agencies
- Obtain a recognised diploma that supports professional growth in public health, research, and health education sectors
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Epidemiology is designed for participants seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in understanding disease patterns and public health research. This course is suitable for:
- Participants working in healthcare, public health, or health education roles
- Individuals involved in clinical or community-based health research
- Participants aiming to pursue careers in epidemiology, biostatistics, or health policy
- Health professionals looking to strengthen their data interpretation and disease surveillance capabilities
- Individuals interested in contributing to disease prevention and health improvement at a population level
- Participants preparing for advanced study in public health, global health, or medical research
This diploma provides a practical and academically sound foundation for those dedicated to improving population health through evidence-based approaches.
