Health & Society

Module code: 7SSEH001
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 15
Semester:  Semester 1 (autumn) 
Assessment:  coursework 
4,000 word assignment 

This course explores and debates key concepts and theories related to the idea of health. It encourages critical appraisal of the epistemological and ideological underpinnings of theoretical work in this area. It focuses on philosophical concepts of health, theories of health promotion, theoretical explanations of health action and health behaviour change and understanding of mental health

Module code: 7SSEH008
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 30
Semester:  Semester 1 (autumn) 
Assessment:  coursework 
The assessed work consists of three separate parts: a) 2500-word essay (analysis of qualitative data; 35% of the mark); b) Quantitative methods: Questionnaire design (equivalent to 1000 words) + 1500 words essay on the questionnaire (35% of the mark); and c) a 3000-word research proposal (30% of the mark).

This module encourages participants’ capacity to engage in research, and to critically appraise the research of others. It considers the relevance and applicability of separate research paradigms to different aspects of research. It explores how and why methodological choices are or might be made in research.

Module code: 7SSEH002
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 15
Semester:  Semester 2 (spring) 
Assessment:  coursework 
4,000 word assignment 

This course encourages critical awareness and appreciation of social influences on, and the social context of, health. It considers social determinants of health and illness, inequalities in health and the relationship between public policy, health and disease.

Module code: 7SSEH003
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 30
Semester:  summer session 1 
Assessment:  coursework 
8,000 word assignment 

This module encourages the development of capacity to engage in systematic reflection on the assumptions, concepts and values inherent in the fields of health/health care. It provides an introduction to the nature of ethical and values-related debates, discusses key issues in public health ethics and debates the relationship between public services and the idea of 'professional ethics'.