Overview of Course

This course provides students with a foundational understanding of population health, disease prevention, and the key variables influencing public health. Students will explore patterns of disease and the underlying causes that contribute to health disparities, recognizing that these causes differ across the lifespan and vary by region, culture, and socioeconomic factors.
The course will focus on how to adapt disease prevention strategies to meet the needs of diverse populations at individual, community, and societal levels. Students will examine the reciprocal relationship between population health and human history, culture, and development, exploring the roles that psychological, sociological, political, religious, and economic influences play in shaping public health outcomes. A component of this course will also address the role of health and spirituality, recognizing how spiritual beliefs and practices can influence health behaviors and outcomes.
In addition to theoretical concepts, students will learn the practical aspects of health promotion, including program planning, implementation, and evaluation. Emphasis will be placed on designing culturally sensitive and evidence-based interventions that can be evaluated for effectiveness in real-world settings.
The course will conclude with a practical project, where students will apply their knowledge to address a real-world population health issue, combining program planning and evaluation with cultural insights to develop comprehensive solutions for disease prevention and health improvement.