Courses & Units
Public Health Surveillance CAM636
Online
Introduction
This unit provides essential background on the different types of surveillance systems used in public health, and the strengths and limitations of the data held within those systems. Students will learn the skills and knowledge required to perform descriptive analyses of surveillance data and to interpret surveillance data appropriately. Students will gain an understanding of the diverse objectives of surveillance systems and how the data collected is used to inform public health action and policy. Students will also learn established methods of evaluating surveillance systems to ensure they are fit for purpose.
Summary
| Unit name | Public Health Surveillance |
|---|---|
| Unit code | CAM636 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Health and Medicine School of Medicine |
| Discipline | Medicine |
| Coordinator | Ms Michelle McPherson |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 2 | Off-Campus | International | Domestic | |
Key
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Note
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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 21/7/2025 | 19/8/2025 | 8/9/2025 | 26/10/2025 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2025 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2025 will be available from the 1st October 2024. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Perform descriptive analysis of surveillance data.
- Explain the strengths and limitations of surveillance data and interpret surveillance data appropriately.
- Describe the different types of surveillance systems in public health, their objectives, and how surveillance data is used for public health action.
- Apply surveillance system attributes to evaluate a surveillance system in public health.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 061399 | $1,164.00 | $1,164.00 | not applicable | $2,923.00 |
- Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
- HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
- FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | On Campus Enrolment: Block Teaching 7.5 hours (4 times); Independent Learning 6 hours (8 times) Online Enrolment: Independent Learning 8 hours weekly; Tutorial (Online) 1 hour (3 times) |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Online Module Quizzes x 5 (20%)|Assignment 1 - Surveillance Report (35%)|Assignment 2 - Evaluation of a Surveillance System (45%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings and other resources will be provided through MyLO. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | You can access the reading list for this unit from the link in MyLO or by going directly to the reading lists page on the University Library website. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.