In person

The course is designed to enable students to apply epidemiological reasoning in real-world situations, rather than merely handling theoretical concepts. To this end, it combines structured explanations with activities focused on application, discussion and individual production.

Lectures introduce and organise the key concepts of each topic. They are developed using examples closely related to clinical practice, short in-class questions and interpretation exercises (tables, results and graphs), with the aim of fostering understanding and linking theory to practice.

Practical case sessions focus on solving clinical and population-based problems. Students work in groups to identify relevant information, interpret results and justify decisions (diagnosis, screening, intervention or surveillance), prioritising critical thinking, argumentation and evidence-based decision-making. These activities form part of the continuous assessment.

Each student will develop an individual research proposal, with progressive guidance and feedback. The project is structured into three submissions:
a) introduction and justification, including identification of the knowledge gap,
b) formulation of the research question, objectives and hypotheses,
c) proposed methodology.

The aim is to train students in formulating relevant research questions and designing coherent studies, integrating the content covered in lectures and case-based sessions.

Three forums linked to key course topics will be conducted, aimed at fostering critical reflection and debate grounded in scientific evidence. Assessment will focus on the quality of reasoning, argumentative capacity and respectful, constructive interaction with peers’ contributions.

Face-to-face and/or online tutorials will be offered to resolve questions, guide the final project and support the consolidation of key learning outcomes, particularly in critical reading, study design and practical application of course content.

The course is delivered in face-to-face mode. Lectures and activities organised in split groups will be conducted on campus, with attendance by assigned groups where applicable.

No activity is compulsory in terms of attendance; however, students should note that all assessed activities are conducted on site and are not recoverable.

In split-group sessions, students must attend the group to which they have been assigned. Group changes will only be authorised on an exceptional basis by the course coordinator, following a formal request submitted at least 48 hours in advance. Missed activities will not be rescheduled.

The course carries 6 ECTS credits, corresponding to an estimated total workload of 150–180 hours, including face-to-face activities and independent study.

All submission deadlines are strict. Students are responsible for the content and format of the material submitted. Deadline extensions, revisions or corrections after submission will not be accepted, except in cases expressly provided for under faculty or university regulations.

The course is conducted within a professional and academic environment, consistent with medical training. Students are expected to demonstrate respectful behaviour, individual responsibility and appropriate participation, ensuring a safe and orderly learning environment for all.

The use of laptops, tablets or mobile phones during face-to-face sessions is permitted only when directly related to teaching activities. Use of devices for purposes unrelated to the course may result in a warning and, if repeated, removal from the classroom.

In lectures, students may enter or leave after the session has begun, provided this is done respectfully and without disrupting the academic activity.
In examinations and assessed activities, entry will not be permitted once the assessment has started.

Lecturers’ explanations are considered academic lectures and are protected by intellectual property and image rights. Unless expressly authorised, audio or video recording, photography and dissemination of such materials are prohibited, as is the recording of other students’ interventions.

Students’ notes are authorised exclusively for personal academic use and for sharing among students enrolled in the course during the academic year. Public dissemination outside the duration of the course is not permitted without the lecturer’s express authorisation.

In accordance with Spanish Law 3/2022, of 24 February, on university coexistence, the improper use of recording or reproduction devices in protected university activities constitutes a serious offence. Any such incidents will be reported to the University Coexistence Committee, which will determine the applicable sanctions.

Academic integrity and prohibited conduct

Conduct contrary to academic integrity includes, but is not limited to:

• communicating with others or using devices during quizzes or examinations,

• accessing mobile phones, tablets or other devices during assessed activities,

• presenting tasks or assignments completed by others as one’s own,

• completing individual activities collectively when this is not authorised,

• plagiarising content in any course activity,

• improper use of artificial intelligence tools, except where expressly authorised for a given activity and without the required declaration of authorship and non-use of AI, in accordance with course instructions,

• submitting group work without having participated in its completion.

Such conduct may result in immediate academic measures, including removal from the classroom or a failing grade for the relevant activity, as well as referral to the appropriate academic authorities, in accordance with current regulations.