Longitudinal and Correlated Data (POPH90123)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Online

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Overview

Availability
Semester 1 - Online
Semester 2 - Online
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This subject covers statistical models for longitudinal and correlated data. Beginning with models based on normal distributions, the concept of hierarchical data structures is developed. Numerical and analytical examples are used to demonstrate the inadequacy of standard statistical methods, including the limitations of the repeated-measures analysis of variance. Extensions to non-normal data using generalised estimating equations (GEE’s) and generalised mixed linear models (GLMM’s) are explored using the R and Stata statistical software packages.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Recognise the existence of correlated or hierarchical data structures, and describe the limitations of standard methods in these settings.
  • Develop and analytically describe appropriate models for longitudinal and correlated data based on subject matter considerations.
  • Be proficient at using statistical software packages (Stata and R) to fit models and perform computations for longitudinal data analyses, and to correctly interpret results.
  • Express the results of statistical analyses of longitudinal data in language suitable for communication to medical investigators or publication in biomedical or epidemiological journal articles.

Generic skills

  • Independent problem solving;
  • facility with abstract reasoning;
  • clarity of written expression;
  • sound communication of technical concepts.

Last updated: 4 March 2025

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

All of

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
MAST90099 Advanced Regression
September (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
 12.5
MAST90100 Probability & Inference in Biostatistics
Semester 1 (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
 12.5
MAST90102 Foundations of Regression
July (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
 12.5
POPH90014 Epidemiology 1
Semester 2 (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
Semester 1 (Dual-Delivery - Parkville)
 12.5

Corequisites

None

Non-allowed subjects

None

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.

Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home

Last updated: 4 March 2025

Assessment

DescriptionTimingPercentage

Short-answer questions

  • 1000 words
From Week 3 to Week 520%

Report #1

  • 1500 words
From Week 6 to Week 830%

Short-answer questions

  • 1000 words
From Week 10 to Week 1220%

Report #2

  • 1500 words
From Week 12 to Week 1430%

Last updated: 4 March 2025

Dates & times

  • Semester 1 - Online
    CoordinatorLyle Gurrin
    Mode of deliveryOnline
    Contact hours
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period 3 March 2025 to 1 June 2025
    Last self-enrol date14 March 2025
    Census date31 March 2025
    Last date to withdraw without fail 9 May 2025
    Assessment period ends27 June 2025

    Semester 1 contact information

    Melbourne School of Population and Global Health

    OR

    Currently enrolled students:

    Future Students:



  • Semester 2 - Online
    CoordinatorLyle Gurrin
    Mode of deliveryOnline
    Contact hours
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period28 July 2025 to 26 October 2025
    Last self-enrol date 8 August 2025
    Census date 1 September 2025
    Last date to withdraw without fail26 September 2025
    Assessment period ends21 November 2025

    Semester 2 contact information

    Melbourne School of Population and Global Health

    OR

    Currently enrolled students:

    Future Students:

     

Time commitment details

170 hours

What do these dates mean

Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:

  • Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
  • And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
       -  Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
     

    Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.

Last updated: 4 March 2025

Further information

  • Texts

    Prescribed texts

    None

    Recommended Text:
    Fitzmaurice G, Laird N, Ware J. Applied Longitudinal Analysis. 2nd ed. John Wiley and Sons, 2011. (ISBN 9780470380277)

    Resources Provided to Students: Printed course notes and assignment material by mail, email, and online interaction facilities.

    Special Computer Requirements: Stata statistical software

     

  • Subject notes

    This subject is delivered online via our partners in the Biostatistics Collaboration of Australia (www.bca.edu.au). It is not generally available in the Master of Public Health nor in any program outside the MSPGH.

     

  • Related Handbook entries

    This subject contributes to the following:

    TypeName
    CourseMaster of Biostatistics
    CourseGraduate Diploma in Biostatistics
  • Links to additional information

    http://www.mspgh.unimelb.edu.au

Last updated: 4 March 2025