Overview of Course

What does it mean to be healthy, and how might this question be answered across different cultures and contexts? This course takes a holistic approach to health and wellness, defining health as more than the absence of illness or disease – instead, we will explore health as state of physical, mental, and social well-being. Drawing on biological, psychological, sociological, and health sciences, students will explore health at individual and population levels. Through the lens of global health practices, we will examine how health is influenced by social determinants, dimensions of wellness, and cultural values. The course will also focus on creativity, community engagement, and interventions aimed at promoting health equity and justice. Students will critically assess the factors that shape well-being and develop a deeper understanding of their own health and that of others. By engaging with readings, discussions, and case studies, participants will emerge with a new perspective on health and wellness, equipped to advocate for healthier communities both locally and globally.