This course will expand on the foundational concepts of epidemiology, epidemiologic data analysis, and introductory content in reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric (RPP) epidemiology. Students will delve into the intricacies of study design, exposure and outcome assessment, and analytic methods that deal with the unique challenges to reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric epidemiology. Most notably, the challenges that arise when dealing with two units of observation (e.g. pregnant person and fetus). Advanced methods to address bias quantitatively, including inverse probability weighting and bias analyses, will also be explored. Special considerations regarding recruitment and conduct of research among protected populations will be discussed. This course will utilize existing datasets housed with the Department of Epidemiology, including a prospective cohort of pregnancy planners, electronic medical record data of pregnant and postpartum patients, and a case-control study of risk factors for stillbirth and birth defects, to provide students with a hands-on application of epidemiologic methods. The course will culminate with a project in which students will apply advanced methods to a research question in RPP epidemiology and draft components of a manuscript in accordance with peer-reviewed publication guidelines. SAS or R proficiency is required.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the MyBU Student Portal for the most up-to-date course information.