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221.660.01
Systems Science in Public Health: Basic Modeling and Simulation Methods

Location
East Baltimore
Term
4th Term
Department
International Health
Credit(s)
3
Academic Year
2017 - 2018
Instruction Method
TBD
Class Time(s)
Wednesday, 3:30 - 6:20pm
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
No
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Contact Name
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Prerequisite

221.654.81 Systems Thinking in Public Health

Description
Mathematical and computational modeling and simulation methods have helped transform many industries and fields such as manufacturing, transportation, communications, and finance and are increasingly being used in public health. As the use of such methods continues to grow, regardless of one’s eventual role in public health, familiarity with such approaches and methods will likely become more and more important in the future.
Introduces students to mathematical and computational modeling and simulation methods that can help public health decision makers better understand and improve various systems in public health. Addresses the basic concepts of mathematical and computational modeling and simulation. Covers probability theory, decision analysis, Markov models, compartment models, and systems dynamics models, as well as basics of economic and operational modeling. Introduces TreeAge, and VenSim software. Offers examples of public health systems including both communicable and non-communicable disease control programs (e.g., vaccines, medications, and non-pharmaceutical interventions), dietary and physical activity behaviors and interventions, and healthcare systems and healthcare policy.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  1. Evaluate and critique a mathematical or computational model and its results
  2. Develop a basic mathematical/computational model and apply it to public health issue/questions
  3. Translate modeling results to public health decision-making