University of Sydney Handbooks - 2013 Archive

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Health Psychology

 

Graduate Certificate in Health Psychology

Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology

Master of Science in Health Psychology


These resolutions must be read in conjunction with applicable University By-laws, Rules and policies including (but not limited to) the University of Sydney (Coursework) Rule 2000 (the 'Coursework Rule'), the Resolutions of the Faculty, the University of Sydney (Student Appeals against Academic Decisions) Rule 2006 (as amended) and the Academic Board policies on Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism.

Course resolutions

1 Course codes

Code

Course and stream title

LG029

Graduate Certificate in Health Psychology

LF045

Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology

LC057

Master of Science in Health Psychology

2 Attendance pattern

The attendance pattern for these courses is full time or part time according to candidate choice, except the Graduate Certificate in Health Psychology which is available part time only:

3 Master's type

The master's degree in these resolutions is an advanced learning master's course.

4 Embedded courses in this sequence

(1)
The embedded courses in this sequence are:
(a)
Graduate Certificate in Health Psychology
(b)
Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology
(c)
Master of Science in Health Psychology
(2)
Providing candidates satisfy the admission requirements for each stage, a candidate may progress to the award of any course in this sequence. Only the highest award completed will be conferred.

5 Admission to candidature

(1)
With approval from the Dean, available places will be offered to qualified applicants according to the following admissions criteria.
(2)
Admission to the Graduate Certificate in Health Psychology requires:
(a)
a four-year Psychology degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification; or
(b)
a three-year degree in a cognate discipline from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification, with a minimum of two years relevant employment experience.
(3)
Admission to the Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology requires:
(a)
a four-year Psychology degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification; or
(b)
a three-year degree in a cognate discipline from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification, with a minimum of two years relevant employment experience; or
(c)
completion of the embedded graduate certificate in this discipline, from the University of Sydney, or equivalent qualification.
(4)
Admission to the Master of Science in Health Psychology requires:
(a)
a four-year Psychology degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification; or
(b)
a three-year degree with credit average in a cognate discipline from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification, with a minimum of two years relevant employment experience; or
(c)
completion of the embedded graduate diploma in this discipline, from the University of Sydney, or equivalent qualification; or
(d)
completion of the embedded graduate certificate in this discipline with a distinction average, from the University of Sydney, or equivalent qualification.

6 Requirements for award

(1)
The units of study that may be taken for these awards are set out in the table for Health Psychology postgraduate courses. With the approval of the Dean and the program coordinator, candidates for the graduate diploma or master's degree, with special aims or interests, may be allowed to substitute up to 12 credit points with relevant postgraduate units from outside the table.
(2)
To qualify for the Graduate Certificate in Health Psychology a candidate must complete 24 credit points, including:
(a)
18 credit points of core units of study; and
(b)
6 credit points of elective unit of study.
(3)
To qualify for the Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology a candidate must complete 36 credit points, including:
(a)
24 credit points of core units of study; and
(b)
12 credit points of elective units of study.
(4)
To qualify for the Master of Science in Health Psychology coursework pathway a candidate must complete 48 credit points, including:
(a)
24 credit points of core units of study; and
(b)
24 credit points of elective units of study.
(5)
Subject to the availability of supervision and suitable projects, candidates with a credit average in 24 credit points of study from the degree may be admitted to the research pathway.
(6)
To qualify for the Master of Science in Health Psychology research pathway a candidate must complete 48 credit points, including:
(a)
24 credit points of core units of study; and
(b)
12 credit points of elective units of study; and
(c)
12 credit points of core research units of study.

Course overview

The Master of Health Psychology is an articulated postgraduate program which teaches the theory and practical applications of Health Psychology. Health psychology is the field of psychology devoted to the study of the promotion and maintenance of health; the causes and detection of illness; the prevention and treatment of illness; and the improvement of health care systems and health care policy. The Master of Health Psychology is designed to provide students with an understanding of the theoretical, methodological and practical aspects of health psychology.

A research stream is also available to Master of Health Psychology students in their second semester of enrolment, upon completion of at least 24 credit points with a distinction average in their first full-time semester (or equivalent).

Course outcomes

This program is designed to meet the needs of a wide variety of health professionals interested in the growing area of health psychology: for example, people working within the Department of Health and other organisations, charities and research groups, allied health professionals, psychology students, geneticists and genetic counsellors. These programs will allow these individuals to pursue health psychology careers within the health service, academia and government.

Units of study table

Unit of study Credit points A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition Session
All Degrees: Core Units
PSYC5010
Applying Psychology to Health
6      Semester 1
PSYC5011
Applying Models of Health Behaviour
6      Semester 2
PUBH5018
Introductory Biostatistics
6      Semester 1
Additional Core Unit: Masters and Graduate Diploma Only
BACH5341
Research & Inquiry in Health Professions
6    N BACH3126, BACH4047, BACH5268, DHSC7002, DHSC7005
Semester 2
Elective Units
Graduate Certificate students must complete one of the following units.
Graduate Diploma students must complete two of following units.
Masters students must complete two of the following.
PSYC5013
Coping and Adjustment to Illness
6      Semester 1
PSYC5012
Health and Risk Communication
6      Semester 2
PSYC5014
Developments in Health Psychology
6   
Note: Department permission required for enrolment

Semester 1
Semester 2
Additional Elective Units: Masters Only
Masters students must complete two additional elective units.
BACH5255
Qualitative Research Methods
6      Semester 2
BIOS5041
Ageing, Biology and Health
6      Semester 2
DENT5015
Population Oral Health
6    P PUBH5010 or SUST5004
Semester 2
GSDD5016
Sexuality and Developmental Disability
6    A Knowledge of the structure and function of male and female genitalia and the sexual response cycle; knowledge of and/or experience with people with developmental disability
Semester 1
HPOL5000
Introduction to Health Policy
6      Semester 1
HPOL5001
Economics and Finance for Health Policy
6      Semester 1
HPOL5003
Analysing Health Policy
6      Semester 2
HPOL5007
Global Health Policy
6      Semester 2
MIPH5219
International Health Project Management
6      Semester 2
PUBH5010
Epidemiology Methods and Uses
6    N BSTA5011
Semester 1
PUBH5019
Cancer Prevention and Control
6    P PUBH5010

Note: Department permission required for enrolment

Semester 2
PUBH5418
Tobacco Control in the 21st Century
6      Int August
PUBH5500
Advanced Qualitative Health Research
6    N QUAL5005
Semester 1a
QUAL5002
Qualitative Methodologies & Study Design
6    A Basic understanding of the nature of qualitative knowledge and the processes of qualitative research.
C PUBH5500


Departmental permission is required for students who have not completed PUBH5500.
Int May
QUAL5003
Qualitative Research Analysis & Writing
6    A Basic understanding of the nature of qualitative knowledge and types of qualitative data.
P PUBH5500
Semester 2
SEXH5205
Advanced Adolescent Sexual Health
6      Semester 2
Additional Core Units: Masters Research Stream Only
This stream is available to students in their second semester who have completed 24 credit points at distinction average or better.
Research stream students must complete the following units in lieu of the two additional elective units
PSYC5016
Research Project in Applied Psychology A
6    P Distinction average in 24 credit points from (PSYC5010, PSYC5011, PUBH5018, BACH5341 and 12 credit points of electives).
C PSYC5017
Semester 1
Semester 2
PSYC5017
Research Project in Applied Psychology B
6    P Distinction average in 24 credit points from (PSYC5010, PSYC5011, PUBH5018, BACH5341 and 12 credit points of electives)
C PSYC5016
Semester 1
Semester 2

Unit of study descriptions 2013

BACH5255 Qualitative Research Methods

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof Karen Willis Session: Semester 2 Classes: No attendance required for online delivery. Online activities including discussion board participation, web-based tutorials 2x3-hr workshops (optional - to be negotiated in Week 1 of semester). Assessment: Contribution to online activities (20%) 1x1500wd essay, methodology (30%) 1x3000wd essay, draft research proposal (50%) Campus: Cumberland
This unit focuses on qualitative research methodologies, including the disciplinary traditions that contribute to qualitative methodologies and the the construction of knowledge using qualitative methods. The implications of methodology for research design will be examined, as will approaches to data collection and analysis. Activities to build skills in research design, data collection and data analysis will be included. Students will work on a research project of their choice throughout the semester.
BACH5341 Research & Inquiry in Health Professions

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tatjana Seizova-Cajic Session: Semester 2 Classes: Distance mode (students must have access to the internet): 3hr group on-campus consultations (optional) Prohibitions: BACH3126, BACH4047, BACH5268, DHSC7002, DHSC7005 Assessment: 3x online quiz's (40%), literature review (10%), draft proposal (10%), final proposal (40%) Campus: Cumberland
This unit provides an overview of the research process and focuses on the formulation of a proposal for a small research project. It provides students with an opportunity to learn about (or update their knowledge of) research methods at the introductory level and acts as an introduction to the research electives which concentrate on a particular methodology or aspect of the research process. Students explore quantitative and qualitative approaches to research with their own specific research question in mind. Basic research designs are considered (including interview, observation, longitudinal and cross-sectional designs, experiment, single case study, survey) together with their suitability for investigating different types of research questions. Students also learn about ethics in research, sampling, validity and reliability of measures and descriptive statistics.
Textbooks
Portney, LG & Watkins, MP / Foundations of Clinical Research: Applications to Practice (3rd ed), /2009/
BIOS5041 Ageing, Biology and Health

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Peter Knight Session: Semester 2 Classes: Web-based. No on-campus attendance required Assessment: Three 2000 word essays (100%) Campus: Cumberland
This unit studies human ageing from biological perspectives. The emphasis is on understanding the main features of 'normal' ageing or senescence as distinct from disease processes and the contribution of environmental factors to ageing. It has three modules: the normal process of ageing (which addresses the factors contributing to ageing, the effects of ageing on body systems, and the relationship between ageing and disease); the effects of hospitalisation and medications on the aged; and preventive gerontology focusing on nutrition and exercise.
DENT5015 Population Oral Health

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Shanti Sivaneswaran Session: Semester 2 Classes: 30hrs consisting of 10x(1hr lecture/seminar and 2hr tutorial) Prerequisites: PUBH5010 or SUST5004 Assessment: individual written assignments (80%), tutorial discussion and group-work participation (20%) Campus: Westmead
To provide students with sufficient background and appreciation of the importance of population oral health and to provide them with the opportunity to develop skills and acquire essential knowledge in this field for the effective practice of population oral health. This unit focuses on the determinants of oral health and the importance of upstream measures to attack the root cause of oral diseases and the planning, implementing and evaluating of these approaches. The following topics will be covered: principles of population health approach, planning and policy framework for population oral health, the changing profile oral health and patterns of oral health care; water fluoridation (including legislation, benefits/risks, the politics of fluoridation, the arguments for and against water fluoridation, how to respond to antifluoridationists; how to promote and extend water fluoridation,), overview of policies and initiatives regarding dental services - the example of New South Wales; and oral health workforce and emerging workforce issues. On the completion of this unit of study students should be able to demonstrate ability to design/develop, implement and evaluate population based oral health programs to improve overall oral health and reduce inequalities in oral health.
Textbooks
Recommended Reading:
GSDD5016 Sexuality and Developmental Disability

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Nathan Wilson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Web-based training: no on-campus attendance required Assumed knowledge: Knowledge of the structure and function of male and female genitalia and the sexual response cycle; knowledge of and/or experience with people with developmental disability Assessment: Assignment 1 (35%), Assignment 2 (45%), Contribution to online discussion (20%) Campus: Cumberland
This unit will provide students with knowledge about the sexual lives of people with developmental disability. Students will become aware of the range of sexual issues that people with developmental disability face across the lifespan. The issues include sexual health and hygiene, legal and ethical issues, masturbation, use of pornography, sexual opportunities and choices, pregnancy and contraception, sexual abuse, sexual offending, sex education, use of sex workers, and the policy framework of disability services. Students will demonstrate the ability to analyse approaches/programs and formal services in relation to the sexual lives of people with a developmental disability, their family members, carers or advocates and assist them to understand, appreciate and support the realisation of a healthy sexual life for people with developmental disability.
HPOL5000 Introduction to Health Policy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Marie Thow & Professor Stephen Leeder Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 x 2-day workshops, online lectures and discussions Assessment: 1 x 1500wd written assignment (30%); 1 x 3000wd written assignment (50%); Online learning quiz (5%); online problem based learning exercise (15%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
To develop a critical and comparative understanding of the history, theory and practice of health policy. To give an overview of the political choices and frameworks - national and global - that shape policymaking.
Learning objectives:
- acquire a critical understanding of the basic history and features of the Australian health system
- understand the main frameworks used to analyse and make policy
- understand the main issues in the translation of policy into practice
- demonstrate the capacity to apply these understandings in particular settings through case studies.
Content:
This unit explores the main structures and institutions that make health policy. The unit examines debates over policy frameworks, and the evidence and advocacy in setting priorities. Conflicts over health policy will be placed in broader contexts - comparing different health systems and assessing global influences. Case studies will be used to examine the relationships between policy and practice.
Textbooks
Buse K, Mays N, Walt G (2005). Making health policy. Open University Press: London.
HPOL5001 Economics and Finance for Health Policy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof James Gillespie, A/Prof Christine Giles, A/Prof Stephen Jan Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 x two day workshops plus online discussion Assessment: Health Economics Exercise (50%), Health finance and policy reform assignment (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
This unit aims to provide students with an understanding of the financial and economic aspects of health policy. It introduces the main concepts and analytical methods of health economics, political economy and finance.
Learning objectives:
- understand the main models and debates regarding health funding in developed OECD countries and the implications for equity, delivery and governance of health services.
- apply this knowledge to current Australian health systems and debates over reform.
- understand the role of economic analysis in evaluating health policy change
- be familiar with theoretical frameworks underlying health economics and analysis
Content
This unit introduces the main concepts and analytical methods of health economics, political economy and finance to examine the workings of health systems in Australia and comparable countries. It looks at the main models of funding used in developed countries and their implications for the structure, planning and delivery of services. The first module focuses on the basic concepts and methodologies of health economics and political economy and their contribution to policy analysis. The second module places funding structures in a broader political and policy context. Topics include the debates over the public-private mix and governance and accountability - who makes decisions about funding priorities? To whom should decision makers be held accountable and for what aspects of their work? How does health finance shape broader policy reform?
Textbooks
Buse K, Mays N, Walt G (2005). Making health policy. Open University Press: London.
HPOL5003 Analysing Health Policy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor James Gillespie, Professor Stephen Leeder Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 x two day workshops plus online discussions Assessment: 1x2500 word assignment (50%), 1x3000 word assignment (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
To develop skills for the effective critical appraisal of health policy. To familiarize students with the principles, and limitations, of evidence-based health policy and a broader understanding of its political context.
Learning objectives:
- to develop critical appraisal skills to critique the research that underpins policy
- to identify and analyse the main influences on policy development
- to evaluate existing policy frameworks and processes in relation to evidence, political context and broader community values
Content:
This unit builds policy analysis and analytical skills by exploring policy design, implementation and evaluation.
It looks at the methods and limitations of evidence-based health policy and the problems of integrating equity concerns when developing and applying health policy.
The workshops focus on using and critiquing epidemiological and social science literature to understand and build the evidence base for policy, and on understanding the political and social contexts in which agendas are set and policies implemented.
Textbooks
Buse K, Mays N, Walt G (2005). Making health policy. Open University Press: London.
HPOL5007 Global Health Policy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Marie Thow, Dr Carmen Huckel Schneider Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 x 2 day workshops plus 4 tutorials (tutorials offered face-to-face or online) Assessment: 1 x 2000 word essay (35%), Tutorial discussion papers or online discussion (15%), 1 x 3000 word essay (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
This unit explores the impact of globalization on health policy, and the way in which global health problems, such as HIV/AIDS and chronic diseases, shape policy. It also investigates the potential to improve health outcomes globally through policy.
Learning objectives:
- Be able to identify and articulate political and policy processes at the global level
- Familiarity with institutions and actors involved in global health policy
- Be equipped with strategies for influencing policy making at the global level
- Develop strong group communication and collaborative skills.
Content;
The unit will explore global health threats that transcend national boundaries; especially those whose causes or results transcend the capacity of individual states to influence, such as avian flu. We will analyse the influence and power of institutions and actors in the development and implementation of global health policy, including the World Health Organisation, UNICEF, the World Bank, the WTO, the Gates Foundation and NGOs. We will also investigate the governance of global health policy responses. Teaching will make extensive use of current case studies from recognised experts in the field.
Textbooks
Reading list available on eLearning
MIPH5219 International Health Project Management

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Mu Li Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x2hr lecture per week for 10 weeks; 1x1 day workshop; 1x1hr tutorial per week for 9 weeks; 1x1 day peer learning session through group presentations. Assessment: 1x 40minutes group presentation (20%), peer evaluation on group participation (15%), 1x group written assignment (40%) and 1x 1000 word individual assignment (25%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
Effective international health projects management contributes to the achievement of health and development in developing countries. The unit aims to give students a good understanding of the concepts and key elements of project design and evaluation, and to demonstrate tools and techniques used in effective project management at different stages.. A detailed step by step application of the Logical Framework Approach (LFA) in project design will be presented, including stakeholder analysis,, problem and objective analysis, and the logframe matrix. The Unit also gives students an opportunity for hands-on practice through the design of a project in an international setting and allows them to consider the challenges and practical issues faced by people involved in international health project management. The key topic areas covered include: concepts and principles of international project management; context and situation analysis; the LFA for project design; project management functions including managing information, resources, risk, quality and change; and project monitoring and evaluation . At the end of the course, students should be able to: identify the key aspects of the LFA to project design; develop a project proposal in international settings; recognise challenges and practical issues faced by people involved in international health project management; and apply a systematic approach to project planning and management in international settings.
Textbooks
Unit notes supplied by School.
PSYC5010 Applying Psychology to Health

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1 one hour lecture, two hours of tutorials per week Assessment: Tutorial attendance (10%) and presentation (40%), major assignment - 2500 word essay (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
The work of health psychologists relies on a broad range of professional skills and attributes. The aim of this unit of study is to conceptually define health within a biopsychosocial framework and to present some of the psychological reactions to hospitalisation, illness and pain. This unit of study provides students with an introduction to key areas of health psychology, and demonstrates how they relate to other disciplines. It also considers the context within which treatment takes place. This unit of study will explore mental and physical diseases. This unit of study examines the application of psychology in clinical settings. The unit of study considers the application of psychological theory to illness and preparation for hospitalisation; the management of adverse psychological sequelae arising from hospitalisation; and rehabilitation.
PSYC5011 Applying Models of Health Behaviour

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 one hour lecture and two hours of tutorials per week Assessment: Tutorial participation (10%), presentation of intervention (40%), write up of intervention (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
The student will be given the opportunity to develop an intervention based on social cognitions models. The process can be followed from start to finish allowing the individual to utilise knowledge and skills gained in other units of study. It is an intended outcome for students enrolled in the MApplSc (HealthPsych) that students can demonstrate an understanding of the key models and theories in Health Psychology which are seen by many to be the foundations of the subject area. The aim of this unit of study is to allow students to identify an area of Health Psychology where an intervention would be appropriate, review existing literature on the topic, formulate the intervention, and evaluate the intervention on a pilot level.
PSYC5012 Health and Risk Communication

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: lectures, videos, interactive exercises, case study discussions and small group-work. This unit will be taught in a block intensive mode over five days Assessment: Major or two minor essays (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
In this unit of study students will consider health communication in the context of the health professional-patient relationship and in the public sphere. This unit of study seeks to develop a critical awareness of the determinants of effective communication, particularly in relation to health risks to the individual and society. The unit of study will investigate: theories of health communication, including patient centred care and shared decision making; evidence regarding the impact of good and poor communication on patient and health professional outcomes; research paradigms in this area including interaction analysis; cross-cultural communication issues in health care; risk communication in the context of informed consent to clinical trials, discussing prognosis and responding to public health risk events; and theories of risk perception and communication. The aim of this unit of study is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the key issues related to communication in health care and health policy settings.
PSYC5013 Coping and Adjustment to Illness

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1 one hour lecture and two hours of tutorials per week Assessment: 40% in-class poster presentation, 2 take home essays (30% each) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
The unit of study aims to apply a psychosocial perspective to the study of disability and chronic disease. In this unit, students will consider the impact of acute and chronic illness states (including physical and mental illness) on the patient and their family. Aspects of quality of life affected will be considered, including sexuality, body image, fatigue, existential crisis, social and intimate relationships, physical reactions and spirituality. The impact of formal and informal systems of social support on illness and outcomes will be explored. The unit will incorporate evaluation of research methods used in such studies together with the application of health psychology theory and a critical examination of research findings. Relationships between health cognition, health behaviour and psychological adjustment will be an important theme of the unit of study, as will be a consideration of interventions to improve patient well being. Broad social, cultural, and political aspects of disability and acute and chronic disease will also be examined. The rise in number of people suffering from or caring for someone who has a chronic condition has proved to be a major challenge facing health psychologists. The impact on and needs of carers and family members will also be considered in this unit of study.
PSYC5014 Developments in Health Psychology

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: three hours of tutorials per week Assessment: one major assignment - 5000 word essay (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The purpose of this unit of study is to allow the student to choose a topic of particular relevance to their areas of expertise. It will allow the student to examine new developments within Health Psychology which may impact on their clinical or work practice.
PSYC5016 Research Project in Applied Psychology A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Barbara Mullan Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Contact will be mainly tutorials with students arranging the appropriate level of supervision needed. Some lectures will also be provided. Prerequisites: Distinction average in 24 credit points from (PSYC5010, PSYC5011, PUBH5018, BACH5341 and 12 credit points of electives). Corequisites: PSYC5017 Assessment: Combined with PSYC5017. Project assignment 7000 to 9000 words (100%). In this unit of study the student will use as many of the identified sessions as s/he wishes for collection of data, preparation of the project etc. under the supervision of his/her research supervisor. Lectures are voluntary and are designed to cover common problems. The majority of support will be one-on-one tutorial sessions with the students' superviors. Students will prepare the ethics application (if applicable), the literature review, collect the data and write up the project with supervision. Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
In combination with PSYC5017 in this unit of study the student will be given the opportunity to carry out a substantial piece of research in the field of health psychology. The research process can be followed from start to finish allowing the individual to utilise knowledge and skills gained in the other unit of study. It is an intended outcome for students enrolled in the MApplSc (HealthPsych research stream) that they present evidence of their capacity to conduct a substantial piece of independent research that builds clearly upon their prior learning and which draws upon appropriate methodologies. The aim of this unit of study is to allow students to identify a research issue, review existing literature on the topic, formulate novel research questions, and test these questions through the application of contemporary psychological methodologies and appropriate data-analytic procedures. Lectures are voluntary, and are designed to cover common problems. The majority of support will be one-on-one tutorial sessions with the student's supervisor.
PSYC5017 Research Project in Applied Psychology B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Barbara Mullan Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Contact will be mainly tutorials with students arranging the appropriate level of supervision needed. Some lectures will also be provided. Prerequisites: Distinction average in 24 credit points from (PSYC5010, PSYC5011, PUBH5018, BACH5341 and 12 credit points of electives) Corequisites: PSYC5016 Assessment: Combined with PSYC5016. Project assignment 7000 to 9000 words (100%). In this unit of study the student will use as many of the identified sessions as s/he wishes for collection of data, preparation of the project etc. under the supervision of his/her research supervisor. Lectures are voluntary and are designed to cover common problems. The majority of support will be one-on-one tutorial sessions with the students' supervisors. Students will prepare the ethics application (if applicable), the literature review, collect the data and write up the project with supervision. Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
In combination with PSYC5016 in this unit of study the student will be given the opportunity to carry out a substantial piece of research in the field of health psychology. The research process can be followed from start to finish allowing the individual to utilise knowledge and skills gained in the other unit of study. It is an intended outcome for students enrolled in the MApplSc (HealthPsych research stream) that they present evidence of their capacity to conduct a substantial piece of independent research that builds clearly upon their prior learning and which draws upon appropriate methodologies. The aim of this unit of study is to allow students to identify a research issue, review existing literature on the topic, formulate novel research questions, and test these questions through the application of contemporary psychological methodologies and appropriate data-analytic procedures. Lectures are voluntary, and are designed to cover common problems. The majority of support will be one-on-one tutorial sessions with the student's supervisor.
PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x 1hr lecture and 1x 2hr tutorial per week for 13 weeks - lectures and tutorials may be completed online Prohibitions: BSTA5011 Assessment: 1x 4page assignment (30%) and 1x 2.5hr open-book exam (70%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
This unit provides students with core skills in epidemiology, particularly the ability to critically appraise public health and clinical epidemiological research literature. This unit covers: study types; measures of frequency and association; measurement bias; confounding/effect modification; randomized trials; systematic reviews; screening and test evaluation; infectious disease outbreaks; measuring public health impact and use and interpretation of population health data. It is expected that students spend an additional 2-3 hours preparing for their tutorials.
Textbooks
Webb, PW. Bain, CJ. and Pirozzo, SL. Essential Epidemiology: An Introduction for Students and Health Professionals Second Edition: Cambridge University Press 2011.
PUBH5018 Introductory Biostatistics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Kevin McGeechan and Professor Petra Macaskill Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 x 2hr lecture, 10 x 1hr lectures, 11 x 2hr tutorials, 2 x 1hr and 8 x 0.5hr statistical computing self directed learning tasks over 12 weeks - lectures and tutorials may be completed online Assessment: 1x4 page assignment (30%) and 1x2.5hr open-book exam (70%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
This unit aims to provide students with an introduction to statistical concepts, their use and relevance in public health. This unit covers descriptive analyses to summarise and display data; concepts underlying statistical inference; basic statistical methods for the analysis of continuous and binary data; and statistical aspects of study design. Specific topics include: sampling; probability distributions; sampling distribution of the mean; confidence interval and significance tests for one-sample, two paired samples and two independent samples for continuous data and also binary data; correlation and simple linear regression; distribution-free methods for two paired samples, two independent samples and correlation; power and sample size estimation for simple studies; statistical aspects of study design and analysis. Students will be required to perform analyses using a calculator and will also be required to conduct analyses using statistical software (SPSS). It is expected that students spend an additional 2 hours per week preparing for their tutorials. Computing tasks are self-directed.
Textbooks
Course notes are provided.
PUBH5019 Cancer Prevention and Control

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Monica Robotin Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3hr per week online lectures, discussion and other activities for 13 weeks Prerequisites: PUBH5010 Assessment: 2 assignments (65%), 5 online tutorials (35%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit aims to provide students with specific information on the concepts, methods and applications underpinning cancer prevention and control at population level. It is designed to address specific educational needs of students in various programs within the School of Public Health and to offer a broad-based perspective on cancer control, ranging from primary prevention, screening and early intervention, tertiary prevention and palliative care. Emphasis will be given to cancers with the greatest impact at population level and where evidence demonstrates that policies and interventions are capable of reducing cancer incidence, mortality, prolonging survival and improving quality of life. Although focusing on specific Australian conditions, the information will be presented in the context of regional cancer control efforts. At the completion of the unit, students will be equipped with the basic tools to design, plan, implement and evaluate cancer control programs in Australia or their own countries.
Textbooks
Readings will be available on the eLearning site for this unit.
PUBH5418 Tobacco Control in the 21st Century

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Simon Chapman Session: Int August Classes: 1x3 day workshop of lectures and problem-focused discussions, followed by 4 weeks of problem-based online discussions Assessment: 2x 2000 word essays (60%), 1x 100 item online quiz (10%) and online discussion and participation (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
The unit consists of learning topics, each of which is supported by extensive Web based resources, and 4 moderated online discussion forums, each focusing on a problem related to tobacco use and control. Lecture topics include: history of tobacco use and control; the burden of illness from tobacco use; secondhand smoke: the research evidence; measuring tobacco use, uptake and cessation in communities; international trends in tobacco consumption; the tobacco industry; the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and new forms of tobacco advertising and promotion. Problem focused discussion forums include: Harm reduction and tobacco control, regulation of tobacco, improving and implementing pack warnings; promoting smoking cessation, prevention of uptake (youth programs); denormalisation of the tobacco industry; controlling advertising; and controlling exposure to tobacco smoke, making news on tobacco and influencing political policy on tobacco.
Textbooks
(recommended only)
PUBH5500 Advanced Qualitative Health Research

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Julie Mooney-Somers Session: Semester 1a Classes: Block mode (2 x 3 days) Prohibitions: QUAL5005 Assessment: 2x 2000wd assignments (2x40%) plus 2x 500wd reflections on workshops (2x10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
This unit of study provides a comprehensive introduction to qualitative inquiry in health. It is designed for beginners and people who want an advanced-level introduction. Workshop One will address: What is qualitative research? How is it different from quantitative research? What is its history? What research questions can it answer? How can I search for qualitative literature? How do I design a qualitative study? You will learn about interviewing, focus groups and observation; participate in a focus group; and design and conduct your own interview. Workshop Two addresses: How do you analyse qualitative data? Is methodology different to method? What are ontology and epistemology? What is reflexivity (and aren't qualitative researchers biased)? What are the ethical issues? How are methodologies and theories used in qualitative research? What is good quality qualitative research? Can I generalise qualitative findings? You will analyse your own interview data; and learn how to make arguments for qualitative research in health. In both workshops you will meet working qualitative researchers and hear about their projects. This advanced Unit will show you a new way of thinking critically about research and researching, and give you the skills and confidence to begin evaluating and doing qualitative research for yourself.
QUAL5002 Qualitative Methodologies & Study Design

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Julie Mooney-Somers Session: Int May Classes: Block mode (2x3 days) Corequisites: PUBH5500 Assumed knowledge: Basic understanding of the nature of qualitative knowledge and the processes of qualitative research. Assessment: 2x1000wd short answer (25%, 25%); 1x 4000wd assignment (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
Note: Departmental permission is required for students who have not completed PUBH5500.
Qualitative methodologies are historical traditions and systems for planning and justifying research methods. This intermediate unit assumes a basic understanding of qualitative research and focuses on qualitative methodologies. Qualitative methodologies are informed by theories from sociology, anthropology, philosophy and other disciplines. They shape the research questions, objectives, design and outcome of a qualitative study. This course begins with general principles of qualitative methodology and study design. We examine seven qualitative methodologies in detail: narrative inquiry, community based participatory research, ethnography, grounded theory, creative, qualitative synthesis, and case study. We consider their historical and theoretical roots, the research practices they encourage, and their current status. The final session considers how we can use methodologies as resources rather than recipes, maintaining both flexibility and coherence in our study designs.
QUAL5003 Qualitative Research Analysis & Writing

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Julie Mooney-Somers Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2x 2 day workshops plus assessed online activities Prerequisites: PUBH5500 Assumed knowledge: Basic understanding of the nature of qualitative knowledge and types of qualitative data. Assessment: practical analysis activities (20%, 20%, 20%), 2000/5000wd draft journal article (40%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington
In this Unit you will analyse and write about qualitative data. This intermediate unit assumes a basic understanding of qualitative research and focuses on qualitative analysis and writing. Workshop one will introduce advanced analytic strategies: conversation analysis, content analysis, discourse analysis and Grounded Theory analysis. Between workshops, you will work in pairs to analyse a portfolio of qualitative data. Workshop Two will concentrate on writing; we will practice tricks and tips for starting writing, structuring articles, and editing your own work. Most importantly, we will practice thinking in genres, asking the question: who is going to read this, and how should I write for them? After completing this Unit you will have a wider range of analytic techniques at your disposal, and will have experience in shaping your writing to make it appropriate for its intended audience.
SEXH5205 Advanced Adolescent Sexual Health

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Melissa Kang Session: Semester 2 Classes: fully online Assessment: continuous assessment including participation in group discussion, short answer questions, 1000 word assignments plus 2500 word essay or field report. Campus: Westmead
This unit aims to introduce the constructs of adolescent sexuality, explore the determinants of adolescent sexual health and to discuss the personal and public health implications of adolescent sexuality, with additional emphasis on a deeper exploration of an area of adolescent sexual health that is of particular interest to the student.
At the end of this unit of study, students will be able to describe the biological, developmental and socio-cultural contexts of adolescent sexual health as well as the constructs, challenges and diversities of adolescent sexuality. They will learn techniques used to optimize communication with adolescents and explore legal, ethical and public health implications of adolescent sexuality. They will also understand and describe one area of adolescent sexual health that the student chooses to study in depth from a list of suggestions.
The course is taught fully online using a range of assessments including group discussion, short answer questions and discussions based on case scenarios. It is divided into 6 modules: adolescent sexuality, adolescent sexual health, reproductive health issues in adolescence, diversity, legal and ethical issues and sexual health promotion.