Module 1: Creating a Learning Community

In this module, students become familiar with the facilities and services of the Institute and the University necessary for their study, including computer and library resources.

They are introduced to basic concepts of self and time management, as well as group dynamics and start applying these effectively when working in teams. 

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An orientation to living in Germany  and the city of Heidelberg is also given, supporting students in their transition.

Module 2: Introduction to International Health and Health Systems

Lectures on the history and scope of international public health help to create a common understanding of essential terms and perspectives.

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This module introduces students to the health systems approach which includes identification of the elements, structure, and essential services of health systems in low and middle-income countries and the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in International Health

Students learn about major endemic infectious and non-communicable diseases and how to appraise their impact on the health of populations. Current global initiatives for eradication of diseases are presented and strategies are explored which promote cooperation at the international, national and local level.

Module 3: Determinants of Health

Health care services are essential for treating the sick and thus make a direct contribution to the health of individuals. However, the health status of a population is determined to a large extent by factors which lie outside the direct influence of health care, such as gender, nutrition, culture, and the environment.

This module provides students with an overview of these determinants and reflects on the potential tools to address them. Special attention is given to medical anthropology, reproductive and infant health, the integrated management of childhood illnesses and environmental health issues.

Module 4:  Qualitative Research Methods and Quantitative Research Methods

Based on the understanding of socio-cultural factors developed in module 2 and 3, this module looks at qualitative research methods such as observation, interviews and focus group discussions used to study and explain community's view on health, illness and health care seeking behaviour.

Students will practice how to design, analyse and present qualitative studies. In addition, ethical issues in research are discussed.

The other part of the module familiarises students with quantitative research methods. They are introduced to epidemiological thinking and the basics of biostatistics and learn how to critically appraise epidemiological findings in literature.

Study design issues are discussed with the aim to enable students to write appropriate applied research proposals to analyse determinants and/or risk factors of health and disease or to assess the impact of a given intervention.

Special emphasis is placed on how to use research findings for better planning and management of health interventions. In addition, tutorials are offered to effectively use statistical software for data management and analysis (e.g. EpiInfo).

Module 5: Health Policy, Evaluation and Health Economy

In this module, the relationship between health policy and the health status of population is explored with the aim to enable students to identify policies that discriminate against certain sectors of a population, to perform stakeholder analysis and to propose modifications that would improve access to disadvantaged population groups.

Emphasis is placed on health economic principles and the economic evaluation methods.

Module 6: Health Planning, Management and Quality of Care

Health planning and management are central in getting improved health programmes to work.

Drawing on knowledge and skills acquired throughout the core course, this module covers the basics of organisational behaviour and communication in managing international health systems and organisations, methods to appraise organisational performance using the fundamentals of budgeting and financial analysis, as well as methods and tools of planning, assessment, monitoring and evaluation (project cycle management).

It also explores opportunities and methodologies for quality improvement initiatives within a variety of health care settings, leading students to be able to plan realisable and sustainable programmes aimed at the improvement of the health systems of low and middle income countries.