Course Description
An online introductory overview of the United States public health system, with an emphasis on core functions of public health. A survey of different approaches to public health problems, including health promotion, disease prevention, and disaster management. Classes will consist of online lectures and faculty and peer lead group reflections.
Athena Title
Introduction to Public Health
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in PBHL 3100, PBHL 7100, PBHL 7100E
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be taught 95% or more online.
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall, spring and summer
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, students should be prepared to: 1. Describe the context and scope of public health, including, history, philosophy, literature, essential services, ethics, and applications to current events; 2. Discuss the basic principles of epidemiology, including rates, risk factors, disease determinants, and causation; 3. Explain the impact of behavior on health and methods for altering behavior at the individual and social levels; 4. Describe how health policy, law, and ethics can serve as tools for implementing health decisions and the potential tensions between individual rights and social responsibilities; 5. Discuss the impact of environmental factors on health; 6. Outline the concepts of prevention, detection, and control of infectious and chronic diseases; 7. Explain the role of health professions and the professional options in the healthcare and public health workforce; 8. Describe the organization of healthcare and public health systems; 9. Discuss the issues associated with cost, quality, and access to healthcare/public health services; 10. Discuss public health’s commitment to vulnerable populations and to global health initiatives.
Topical Outline
Syllabus Review and Introduction to Public Health Public Health's History and Controversies Public Health Workforce/State and Local Public Health Population Approach and Evidence-Based Public Health Epidemiology Epidemiology and Biostatistics (research methods) The Role of Data (health information and agencies) Role of Infectious Disease Infectious Disease Resurgence Discussion Breakout 1 Social and Behavioral Health (Factors) Social and Behavioral Health (Behavioral Change) Nutrition and Obesity Intentional and Unintentional Injury Mental Health Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Management Waste, Air, Water, Environmental Health Food and Drugs: Role of FDA Discussion Breakout 2 U.S. Healthcare Systems Medical Care, Insurance, and Reform Global Healthcare Systems Aging in Society Discussion Breakout Group Submissions of Current Issues in Public Health Final Exam
Syllabus