Design and Analysis of Non-Randomized Studies

Catalog description

This course provides students a foundation in the design of rigorous non-randomized studies that compare the effectiveness of one or more treatments to another. In addition to a brief history of comparative effectiveness research (CER), the course will use examples from the literature to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of CER against the gold standard randomized controlled trial (RCT). Through course readings, in-class discussions, and development of a short proposal on a non-randomized study of the students' choosing, students will develop research skills and competencies related to understanding, conducting and interpreting non-randomized studies. Topics include: conceptual models, critical review of clinical literature, national survey and claims data sources, quasi-experimental study designs, sensitivity analysis and statistical adjustment in quasi-experiments, controlling for bias in observational data, and heterogeneity of treatment effects. Prerequisite CRP 242 or permission of the instructors. Prerequisite: None. Credits: 2.