What is disease? What is health? How are health and disease distributed among the populations? What factors are responsible for our state of health and well being? Why is the life expectancy of Americans declining? What role does a universal health care system play in Americans’ health? How do other social systems such as food system connect to public health? To answer these questions, we need to examine health and medicine in their social, cultural and historical context. 

In this 8-quarter medical sociology and public health program, we will introduce foundational concepts in medical sociology and public health, health care system, inequity in health and explore ways to address the issues. Topics will include social and cultural constructions of health and illness, the social determinants of health, education of health care professionals and their relationships with patients, and health care systems.   

Program activities will include workshops, lectures, films, seminars, guest presentations and group and individual projects. We will focus on clarity in oral and written communication, critical thinking skills, and the ability to work across significant differences.

The class will meet in person for 4 hours each week on Thursday evenings from 6 pm to 9:30 pm on Olympia campus and have 4 hours of asynchronous online work and assignments.  

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies: 

4 - Public Health

4 - Medical Sociology