Compulsory modules

Students will engage with a range of social science theories, learning how to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world issues. They will gain an understanding of the wider determinants of health inequalities in national and global contexts, studying current and emerging threats to human health and well-being, the cultural context of disease, ethics, social justice and equity issues in relation to public health.

Students will develop an understanding of the ways public health priorities are developed and addressed through health and social policy, systems of health promotion and care and local public health leadership practices. Drawing on social science theories and international research, they will critically examine policymaking, public governance and health systems, enhancing their understanding of how interventions are developed, implemented and situated within wider social and political contexts.

Health communication is a field that bridges science communication and health promotion. Throughout this module, students will develop a critical understanding of contemporary communication issues that impact on public health. These include mis and dis-information, communication within medical encounters, the role of health social movements, the use of storytelling and visual methods in health education strategies, and how public health issues are covered in the media, social media and within social marketing campaigns.