Introduction to Public Health

This course explores how the historical development of human societies led to the creation and evolution of the public health field, and how this has altered the course of human history. Students will explore the philosophical and scientific underpinnings of public health, and the factors that have shaped the development of modern public health services. The evolution of modern public health structures and functions will be examined within the context of society structure, historical events, and scientific understanding. Concepts of population health, disease control/prevention, disability, and premature death will be examined through discussion of contemporary and historical case studies.