The Advanced Course for Epidemiologists (ACE) was developed by the Colorado Integrated Food Safety Centers of Excellence, this comprehensive online training is designed for intermediate-level (Tier 2) epidemiologists.
Course highlights:
- Self-paced structure: Equivalent to a 1-credit semester course, requiring 1-3 hours per week over 12 weeks
- Self-assessment tool: Identify key competencies and modules to focus on at the start
- Knowledge checks: Each section includes a test with a recommended passing score of 80% or higher
- Expert-led content: Short lectures by leading experts, complemented by readings and practice-based activities
Key topics include:
- Background & Preparation: Impact of foodborne disease, enteric disease biology, team dynamics, and legal preparedness
- Surveillance & Outbreak Detection: Pathogen-based and complaint-based surveillance
- Investigation: Hypothesis generation and testing, analytical skills, data analysis, and environmental health
- Control & Prevention: Control measures, communication strategies, and reporting to surveillance systems
ACE is ideal for public health professionals with basic knowledge of infectious disease epidemiology and enteric diseases. The curriculum covers the core competencies for tier 2 epidemiologists who detect and investigate enteric disease outbreaks.