Biostatistics, 5 Credits

Contents

The course focuses on giving an understanding to the statistical reasoning within scientific methodology and the analyses of data. To start with will the role that statistical methodology has within scientific methodology be described and discussed. In the course, it is discussed different structures of data, among them quantitative and qualitative data, as well as different levels of measurement. Descriptive statistics is introduced in the course through use of tables, figures and statistical measurements. The concept of statistical inference is introduced with emphasis on confidence intervals and hypothesis tests. Statistical inference is applied through statistical analysis methods for comparisons of groups in order to investigate dependencies between variables. The course in concluded with a description of linear regression as method for analyses. During a literature seminar are research articles related to public health discussed with a focus on the statistical method. Throughout the course will the theoretical parts be illustrated from use of practical computer exercises where statistical software are used.
 

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

After this course, students are expected to:

• Comprehend and clarify the role of statistical terminology and the importance of statistical methodology within scientific methodology.
• Recognizing different structures of data and having the understanding of statistical inference
• Be able to determine which statistical analysis method that is suitable from given pre-requisites related to comparisons of groups, relationships between variables and linear regression. 

Skills and abilities

After this course, students are expected to be able to:

• Summarizing data in tables, figures and with statistical measurements
• Perform suitable statistical analyses in regard to comparisons of groups and dependency between variables as well interpretation of results from these analyses
• Interpret results from linear regression

Judgement and approach

After this course, students are expected to:

• Discuss the application of basic statistical methodology in public health related articles

Required Knowledge

For non-programme students applying as single-course students, the requirements are 120 ECTS, of which a minimum of 30 ECTS are within one of the following: health sciences, environmental health or social sciences.
English proficiency equivalent to English B/6 from Swedish Upper secondary education. Basic entrance requirements for higher studies in Swedish language proficiency is also required if the course is taught in Swedish.

Form of instruction

Teaching is performed through plenary lectures, group exercises, practical computer exercises and seminars. Teaching is given in English.
 

Examination modes

The examination consists of a written exam with the grades Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with Distinction (VG). Students who do not pass the regular examination will have a new examination within 3 months after the first examination.

If there are special reasons, the examiner has the right to decide whether another form of examination can be used. A student who has failed two tests for a course, are entitled to have another examiner appointed, unless there are specific reasons against it. A written request is submitted to the director of studies.
 

Other regulations

Students have the right to examine whether previous education or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired can be credited for the corresponding course at Umeå University. Application is submitted to Studentcentrum/Examina. Details on crediting can be found at Umeå University’s student web, www.student.umu.se, and the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 6). A refusal of accreditation may be appealed (Chapter 12) against to the University Appeals Board. This applies if the whole or part of the application for accreditation is refused.