Demand for education in pharmacoepidemiology is widespread, and has resulted in the short course at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. This course is designed as an introduction but requires some scientific background to understand it. The course occurs annually, and covers basics of epidemiology, statistics and drug surveillance systems as applied particularly to drug safety issues. A successful completion results in a certificate from the University of London, and the course is accredited for continuing pharmacy and medical education purposes.