This unit aims to provide an overview of key issues in the economic evaluation of health technologies, and develop an understanding of the application of economic evaluation methods to decision making. The module provides an understanding of the basic principles of economic evaluation and develops the student's understanding of the various approaches to economic evaluation together with their strengths and weaknesses. An in depth assessment is made of alternative techniques for benefit measurement, the QALY model and their application to decision making. By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to design and conduct economic evaluations and benefit valuation studies, and critically evaluate the methods commonly employed in economic evaluation.