Health Information
Module Description
This module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of health information systems and their critical role in public health practice.
It covers the collection, management, analysis, and dissemination of health information. Students will learn about the distinct types of health information systems, data sources, data quality, and the application of health information to improve public health outcomes.
Through theoretical knowledge and practical skills, this module prepares students to effectively use health information in decision-making, policy development, and public health interventions.
Entry Requirements
Candidates who apply for this course will hold a:
- Level 6 Degree related to the subject area of the programme.
OR
- Level 6 degree not related to the subject area of the programme and a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience (subject to interview by admissions board)
OR
- Level 5 Diploma or Higher Diploma related to the subject area of the programme and 2 years of work experience in a position related to the subject area of this programme (subject to interview by admissions board).
In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted in the course. Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA College, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.
Target Audience
This programme targets:
- Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in the sector of public health.
- Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of career paths within the public health industry.
- Individuals wanting to enhance their ability to interpret, assess and communicate public-health related information.
Career Paths
This programme aims to equip target audience with the knowledge, skills and competencies listed in this application. The programme prepares for positions such as:
- Consultant in Public Health
- Leadership, management and administrative roles of health services, programmes or facilities
- Epidemiologist/biostatistician
- Health promotion and communication specialist
- Health Policy Analyst/Planner
- Global public health professional
- Environmental health scientist
- Public health educator/researcher
How you’ll be assessed
The module comprises of:
- Evening classes for part-time courses.
- Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
- Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
- Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.
Assessment
Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:
- Assessment 1
- Assessment 2
The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.
Module Intake Dates
TBA 2025
Learning Outcomes
Competences
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Critically analyse health information systems and their role in public health practice.
- Thoroughly evaluate data sources and data quality.
- Critically appraise data management and governance.
- Manage health information.
- Leverage health informatics to enhance public health outcomes.
- Demonstrate technological proficiency in public health research and practice.
- Engage in interdisciplinary and collaborative teamwork.
Knowledge
By the end of the module/unit, the students will be able to:
- Critically analyse health information systems and their role in public health practice.
- Thoroughly evaluate data sources and data quality.
- Critically appraise data management and governance.
- Manage health information.
- Leverage health informatics to enhance public health outcomes.
- Demonstrate technological proficiency in public health research and practice.
- Engage in interdisciplinary and collaborative teamwork.
Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Use health information to support public health decision-making, policy development, and programme planning.
- Integrate health information from multiple sources to provide comprehensive assessments of public health issues.
- Evaluate the impact of health information on public health outcomes and interventions.
- Address ethical issues related to the use of health information, including privacy, consent, and data sharing.
- Apply cultural competence in the management and dissemination of health information.
- Ensure that health information practices respect the values and needs of diverse populations.
- Make sound use of technological tools in the realm of public health research and practice.
- Communicate complex public health concepts effectively with diverse audiences, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public.
- Demonstrate the acquisition and application of important soft skills including peer working, a strong sense of responsibility, a professional work ethic, critical thinking, autonomy, and problem-solving skills.
Module-Specific Learner Skills
The learner will be able to:
- Communicate health information effectively to diverse audiences, including healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public.
- Develop clear and concise reports, dashboards, and presentations to disseminate health information.
- Use health information to advocate for public health initiatives and inform stakeholders.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences
The learner will be able to:
- Apply data visualisation techniques to present health information effectively.
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials etc.