Health Equity, Communication, and Advocacy

This course analyzes the mechanisms and social processes by which social determinants of health create patterns of health and disease and produce inequalities in health among populations. It examines how race, class, power, wealth, structural bias, racism, and sexism distribute social inequities and undermine health. Students explore strategies for mitigating adverse social influences on health. They also develop skills in incorporation of cultural humility, engaging diverse groups in public health activities, creating partnerships and collaborative with relevant constituencies; participating effectively in inter-professional teams; and, identifying appropriate communication strategies for different audiences. Ultimately, students will be able communicate, in writing and verbally, key public health concepts and strategies for different audiences and advocate for political, social and/or economic policies and programs intended to improve health and reduce health inequalities.

Fall, Spring, Summer