Curriculum
Programme Structure
The Master of Science in Infectious Disease Emergencies programme is a coursework-based programme that can be completed in 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time). To graduate, students must complete 40 units of coursework.
Our user-friendly programme combines both face-to-face (F2F) and virtual learning opportunities, with the full-time track spanning two semesters, meaning candidates are not required to remain in Singapore for the full year. Each semester begins with approximately three weeks of F2F instruction, followed by virtual engagement, self-directed study, and support. The semester concludes with two weeks of F2F sessions to consolidate learning. Adult learning styles will predominate over traditional didactic learning, facilitating engagement and network building.
F2F learning activities
- Semester 1: Mon, 21 Jul'25 - Fri, 8 Aug'25
(3 weeks) - Semester 2: Mon, 12 Jan'26 - Fri, 30 Jan'26
(3 weeks)
Virtual learning activities and supported self-directed study
- Semester 1: Mon, 11 Aug'25 - Fri, 14 Nov'25
(14 weeks) - Semester 2: Mon, 2 Feb'26 - Fri, 17 Apr'26
(11 weeks)
F2F learning activities
- Semester 1: Mon, 17 Nov'25 - Fri, 28 Nov'25
(2 weeks) - Semester 2: Mon, 20 Apr'26 - Fri, 1 May'26
(2 weeks)
Note: 1 May'26 is a public holiday for Labour Day, and no classes will be held.
*Please note that while we do not anticipate any changes, the dates provided are subject to adjustment based on unforeseen circumstances.
Courses Offered
These courses each have rich evidence based and practical content as well as cross cutting threads of leadership, ethics and law, which add unique insights and prepares candidates with skills valid beyond infectious disease emergencies.
Students are required to complete all 3 core courses (4 units each, 12 units in total).
| S/N | Course Title | Brief Description |
Semester Offered |
| 1 | IDE5001 Leadership and Coordination |
Leaders facing outbreaks need to coordinate the many pillars of response in the health and non-health sectors (public and private). Learners will have the opportunity to engage with international experts and will be enabled to develop their own leadership skills by understanding different styles of leadership and how they can be applied. | Sem 2 |
| 2 | IDE5002 Surveillance and Epidemiology |
This course will explore the cause, prevention, and control of infectious disease emergencies (IDEs) through considering the epidemiologic triad of host, agent, and environment. Learners will acquire knowledge of field epidemiological methods used for outbreak data analysis and understand how this informs public health interventions. The module will also equip learners with the skills to interpret surveillance data, conduct risk assessments, and understand key components of designing surveillance systems. A One Health ecosystem approach will address the complexities of urban epidemiology. |
Sem 1 |
| 3 | IDE5003 Communications and Engagement in a Crisis |
This course provides coverage of the key elements of preparing for and delivering effective and comprehensive communications in a health crisis, including risk communication and community engagement (RCCE), information management, stakeholder engagement, media management, and media training. Conducted via an interactive series of lectures, workshops, small group discussions, and panel discussions with a team including global communications experts, learners will be guided on the steps needed to design, implement, and evaluate an effective and holistic communications plan in response to outbreaks. |
Sem 1 |
Students are required to choose and complete 7 electives (4 units each, 28 units in total).
| S/N | Course Title | Brief Description | Semester Offered |
| 1 | IDE5004 Clinical Management, Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), and Facility Infrastructure |
In this course, learners will acquire knowledge to effectively prepare for and safely respond to a surge in demand for clinical case management during infectious disease emergencies (IDEs), and understand the role of well-considered facility infrastructure in outbreak preparedness. Usual patient care needs to be maintained while most healthcare resources pivot towards the outbreak response. Infection Prevention Control (IPC) systems and processes require enhancement and adaptation during an infectious disease emergencies. The design of facilities in a healthcare system needs to consider pandemic preparedness. Learners will have the opportunity to explore these guiding principles in a hands-on manner, facilitated by in class activities, and opportunities to engage with leading experts. |
Sem 2 |
| 2 | IDE5005 Interventions for Outbreak Control |
This course focuses on strategic public health emergency interventions, including both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions, evidence-based approaches, and adaptability to different settings. The challenges and ethical implications of vaccine development and implementation, assessing the risks of mass gatherings, and managing volunteers are also core components. | Sem 1 |
| 3 | IDE5006 Research in a Pandemic |
This course examines the central role of research to inform and enhance various outbreak response strategies during different phases of an outbreak. The course will cover how research can be effectively conducted and published rapidly to answer pressing clinical and policy questions. Using a variety of case studies, challenges of clinical research conducted during health emergencies will be explored. The evolution of outbreak research from ad hoc investigations to mainstream internationally coordinated efforts will be examined along with the potential impact of ethical, legal, operational, and cultural factors on quality and research processes. |
Sem 2 |
| 4 | IDE5007 Mental Health and Support for the Vulnerable |
This course will provide insights into strategies for protecting vulnerable populations such as children, women, and minority and disadvantaged groups in society, who are at risk of exploitation, abuse, or neglect, especially during an outbreak. Preparing these communities can improve resilience via proactive and informed interdisciplinary approaches toward building stronger and healthier communities. In addition, learners will engage with experts to explore innovative strategies to support ongoing wellbeing. | Sem 2 |
| 5 | IDE5008 Laboratory |
This course will provide the learners with an appreciation of the role laboratory has to play during and after an outbreak response. Learners will be exposed to the various components such as testing, contact tracing, isolating, and communication of lab results. Important concepts that will be explored include Pathogen Genomics, Biorisk Managment, and Evaluating and Implementing Novel Therapeutics. | Sem 2 |
| 6 | IDE5009 Training for Outbreak Response |
In this practical immersive course, learners will experience the design, implementation, and evaluation of various training methods for preparedness and response to infectious disease emergencies (IDEs). The innovative use of technology will be integrated into this and other courses, and learners will have hands-on experience to adapt to new trends in this sector. Skills acquired in this module will benefit the learner in educational initiatives beyond those required for outbreak preparedness and response. |
Sem 2 |
| 7 | IDE5010 Outbreak Prone Pathogens |
Learners will gain knowledge on emerging and re-emerging pathogens with outbreak potential. An understanding of commonly identified organisms will be shared by content experts with real-world experience. A major focus of this course is on the chain of transmission and pragmatic interventions to interrupt spread of disease. Other features of this module include discussions surrounding intentional and unintentional origins of outbreaks and pathogens of concern. |
Sem 1 |
| 8 | IDE5011 Infectious Disease Emergency Response Modelling |
This course is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of infectious disease modelling. It is tailored for learners with some background in epidemiology but limited mathematical training. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and practical exercises, learners will explore the fundamental principles of infectious disease modelling, how to construct and interpret models, and how these models can inform public health decisions. |
Sem 1 |
Study Plan
The study plan outlines the courses to take each semester and the expected workload for both full-time and part-time students. Plan and pace your course selections wisely across the semesters to ensure timely graduation.