HAR6047: Critical Reflections in Global Health (online)

This online module is led by Emma Hock. It runs in the Autumn semester and is worth 15 credits.


Module description

Global health has been described as the art and science of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through the organised efforts of society, with the goal being the attainment of biological, physical, and mental well-being of all members of society.

In this module, which is delivered online, we take an interdisciplinary approach to explore these themes. We will consider some of the key concepts of global health, explore some of the determinants of health, and consider some of the key functions and methods applied to address global health issues. We will then reflect on these themes in relation to the practice of global health through the lens of specific health challenges.

Throughout the module themes such as inequalities in health, complexities in our response, and the political, social, and economic context within which we work will be repeatedly raised and discussed.  The module will explore a diverse range of subjects that include socioeconomic and health inequalities, health intelligence, and sexual and reproductive health.

Throughout the module, you will be encouraged to develop and use a reflective learning approach to consider shifts in your perception and understanding of the issues raised.


Objectives

By the end of the module, candidates will be able to:

  • Explore theoretical and real-world examples of global health issues and responses, and reflect on shifts in your perception and understanding relating to these.
  • Critically assess the economic, political, cultural, social, and environmental determinants of health and their interconnectedness.
  • Critique the assumption that the attainment of the biological, physical, and mental well-being of all members of society is achievable.
  • Discuss the processes and procedures by which the global health agenda is shaped, including critiques associated with bottom-up and top-down approaches.
  • Debate the merits, demerits and complexities of local, national and global responses to improving health, and deliberate on the need for inter-disciplinary approaches.

Teaching

This module can also be taken as part of the following courses:

This module is available in any year as a DDP module

This module is delivered online and takes an inter-disciplinary teaching approach.

Through online teaching materials and online group discussions, we will explore both theoretical and real-world examples of global health challenges and responses, not only as informed by the literature base but through the shared experiences of those leading the sessions and the student body.

Each session will also include recommendations for further reading and independent study. The module will encourage the development and use of critical thinking and reflective learning – these essential skills in global health will be of great benefit when undertaking the assignments.


Fees and funding

You can find out more about fees and funding for CPD modules in the School of Medicine and Population Health at the link below. We accept sponsored as well as self-funding students.

Fees and funding information


How to apply

Find out what you need to do to apply for a CPD module in the School of Medicine and Population Health.

Apply for this module


Contact

For more information on this module, speak to the lead academic:

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

Information last updated:


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International scholarships

We offer a generous package of financial support for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate taught scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee.

Applications are open for existing offer holders for programmes starting in autumn 2025.