Overview

Administrative data, sometimes referred to as routinely collected data, provide large and rich datasets for research. However, they require careful cleaning, management and interpretation. This self-paced online course is for those who are considering using administrative data for research and would like a short introduction to this topic. The course uses administrative health data as an example, but the principles apply to all administrative data.

This course is specifically designed to enhance knowledge, self-confidence and expertise among researchers who wish to develop their skills in analysing complex longitudinal biosocial data. It makes key concepts and approaches accessible to quantitative researchers from a wide range of disciplines and sectors, with particular emphasis on how these can be practically applied in their work. It is part of the RADIANCE programme, which has been developed by an expert team from UCL and the University of Manchester to offer comprehensive, state-of-the-art longitudinal data science training all in one place.

Who this course is for

This course is aimed at quantitative researchers working with biomedical and social data who are considering using administrative data for research and would like a short introduction to this topic.

Course content

The course provides an introduction to the following topics:

• What is the difference between administrative data and other research data?
• Who collects administrative health data and why?
• What are some of the benefits and challenges of using administrative health data for research?
• Procedures for applying for access to administrative health data (UK perspective)

Teaching and structure

The course consists of three pre-recorded lectures, a computer practical and solutions.

Certificates

A certificate of completion will be available to download once the required activities have been completed.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course you will be able to:

• understand what special considerations need to be taken into account when analysing and interpreting administrative health data
• describe the strengths and weaknesses of administrative health data for research
• elaborate on the key steps required for accessing administrative health data in the UK

Cost and concessions

The standard fee for this course is £100.

A 10% discount is available for UCL students and staff – please email radiance@ucl.ac.uk for details.

Course team

Prof Pia Hardelid

Pia Hardelid is a Professor of Epidemiology at the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health. Pia’s areas of expertise include analyses of administrative data, epidemiology and cohort studies.

Dr Linda Wijlaars

Linda Wijlaars is a Senior Research Associate at the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health. Linda’s areas of expertise include life course epidemiology and use of routinely collected health data.

Course information last modified: 25 Jan 2024, 16:36