General provisions

The course is part of the Master's Programme in Infection Biology.

Entry requirements

One year of studies at the Infection Biology Master programme or correlative. English proficiency, normally attested by means of an internationally recognised test such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Learning outcomes

After completion of the course the student should be able to

• describe and explain the principles behind the formation and genetic evolution of pathogenic microorganisms

• apply relevant the bioinformatics tools to genetically determine the origin and development of pathogenic microbes

• use epidemiological methodology to describe the frequency and the distribution of disease and health in populations and to evaluate causal relationships

• account for the existence, occurrence, risks and contamination by food-borne infections and to assess risks in relation to handling, behaviour and regulations

• account for and assess methods to predict, monitor and prevent proliferation and presence of pathogenic microbes, in particular regarding emerging and zoonotic infections

• in a global perspective, identify and analyse the most important infectious diseases with a particular perspective on problems with poverty, malnutrition and inadequate sanitary circumstances in developing countries

• interpret, critically assess, extract and communicate scientific reports and other relevant information within the subjects of the course

Content

The course is part of the third semester (of four) of the Master programme in infection biology and comprises of modules on microbial evolution, epidemiology, food microbiology, zoonoses, surveillance and global infections. The modules of the course will complement the previously acquired molecular and biomedical knowledge of infectious biology and provide a comprehensive understanding of infectious disease emergence and spread, as well as tools for control and prevention of these at a local as well as international level.

Instruction

Teaching is conducted as lectures, given by specialists from e. g academia, hospital, government agencies, authorities and pharmaceutical industry. The lectures are complemented by mandatory seminars, group exercises, computer lab work and site visits. If resources are available, the course is concluded with a field trip.

Teaching is in English.

Assessment

Examination includes a written exam graded fail (U), pass (G) or pass with distinction (VG). The mandatory assignments will be examined at seminars or through oral and/or written reports and will be graded fail (U) or pass (G) only. To pass the course, all assignments and exams must be completed and approved, and together generate a final weighted grade.

Missed mandatory assignment may be complemented during the next scheduled course occasion and only if there are available slots.