COURSE CURRICULUM

The Public Health Theory and Policy core module provides a comprehensive introduction to the key principles and concepts that form the foundation of public health practice. Recognising the broad and complex nature of the subject, the module explores how public health operates across local, national, and global levels, with a focus on its purpose, functions, and methods of service delivery. It aims to build a strong platform for students to develop the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for the rest of the program and for future careers in the field.Students will learn about the public health policy process, including how policies are created, implemented, and assessed. The module encourages a critical examination of public health policies and programs within a quality framework, allowing students to evaluate their effectiveness and their impact on the wider determinants of health, such as social, economic, environmental, and cultural factors. In addition, it explores the political, economic, and institutional contexts in which public health decisions are made and resources are allocated.By analysing real-world case studies and current policy approaches, students gain insight into how complex decisions are made in the public health sector. The module helps students understand the challenges of designing and implementing policies that address health inequalities and promote health at a population level. Overall, it equips students with a solid understanding of how theory informs policy and practice, preparing them for more advanced study and for roles in public health leadership, research, policy development, or advocacy.