Social Determinants of Health and Public Policy (Undergraduate)

The course aims to examine the social determinants of health and health inequalities and to evaluate appropriate public policy responses. The course explores in detail current theories explaining the development and persistence of inequalities in health. In particular it will encourage students to examine theories focusing on behavioural/cultural, psycho-social, structural/materialist, and life course explanations of health inequalities. The course will also investigate the role of government in determining economic and social policy, and the impact of economic and social policy on inequalities. It will specifically consider how government approaches to taxation, provision of the welfare state, and the funding and delivery of public services can impact on the equitable distribution of resources within society. The course will finally consider the impact of specific areas of public policy (for example relating to health services, transport, and/or food) on health inequalities. Credit Level: 10 Year taken: Year 3 Undergraduate