HAR6061: Further Statistics for Health Science Researchers (online)
This online module is led by Jeremy Dawson. It runs in the Spring semester and is worth 15 credits.
On this page:
Module description
The module will cover fundamental statistical concepts, including both simple statistical methods and the more widely used advanced methods of multiple linear regression, survival analysis and generalised linear models.
It will be a practical module, including the teaching of the statistical software SPSS, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and analyse a study to answer specific research questions; to understand and critically appraise the literature more thoroughly; and to present research findings in a suitable fashion.
This module is for distance-learning (DL) students, and MSc Clinical Research students whose clinical work prevents them taking the equivalent face-to-face module (HAR6045). This is a distance learning version of the face-to-face HAR6045 module.
Please note that some prior understanding of statistics is necessary to study this module. PGT students must previously have taken HAR6035, HAR6039, HAR6042 or an equivalent introductory-level statistics module. PGR students must either have taken one of these modules or had an introductory course in statistics as part of previous studies.
Objectives
By the end of the unit, a student will be able to:
- Classify and appropriately display and summarise different types of data
- Describe and test statistical hypotheses in an appropriate manner
- Analyse data appropriate to the particular study design
- Understand parametric and non-parametric tests and when they should be used
- Understand how to use multiple linear regression
- Understand how to use logistic regression and other generalised linear models
- Understand how to use survival analysis
- Use SPSS to perform all of the above analyses and to manage data
- Evaluate the quality of published research from recent papers
These outcomes relate to the following QAA subject-specific skills in health studies:
- the ability to understand, interpret and critically appraise the statistical information presented in the health and health care literature
- the ability to draw on research and research methodologies to locate, review and evaluate research findings relevant to health and health issues, across a range of disciplines
Teaching
This module can also be taken as part of the following courses:
Recorded lectures will be used to impart knowledge of key statistical concepts and methods (Aim 1 and LO 1-7 and 9), while structured exercises using SPSS will apply these concepts to provided example data sets (Aims 2 and 3 and LO 8).
Weekly discussion board hours (including some synchronous webinar sessions) will allow students direct contact with the module leader for questions and discussions.
Fees and funding
You can find out more about fees and funding for CPD modules in the School of Medicine and Population Health at the link below. We accept sponsored as well as self-funding students.
How to apply
Find out what you need to do to apply for a CPD module in the School of Medicine and Population Health.
Contact
For more information on this module, speak to the lead academic:
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Information last updated:
International scholarships
We offer a generous package of financial support for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate taught scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee.
Applications are open for existing offer holders for programmes starting in autumn 2025.