This course will provide an interdisciplinary and contemporary overview of the epidemiology of substance use and public health approaches to reducing harms related to substance use (e.g., HIV, hepatitis C, overdose). The course will also introduce novel methods used in epidemiologic research on substance use, including strategies for participant recruitment and collection of sensitive behavioral data; interwoven with this content will be discussions of the ethical considerations for research involving people who use drugs. The course will focus predominantly on heroin and nonmedical use of prescription opioids, but will also discuss issues surrounding cocaine, crack, methamphetamine, nonmedical use of other prescription drugs, hallucinogens, synthetic drugs, and other emerging substances. These topics will be explored using a range of approaches, including readings, documentaries, and discussions with guest lecturers involved in epidemiologic research on substance use, public health practice, and/or who are in recovery from substance use.