Upstream Determinants of Health

Undergraduate | 2026

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area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
PUBH 1001
Course ID icon
Course ID
201329
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
1
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

The upstream determinants of health course aims to introduce you to the wider forces that shape the health and wellbeing of individuals and populations and how these forces vary over time and place. You will explore the role of social, political, ecological and economic factors on population health and will examine how these factors interact with the health system factors to drive health outcomes. The course will present key theoretical concepts to explain the upstream factors influence on health. You will examine differences between countries and within countries to see how the upstream determinants of health have a real impact on people and communities. The course will discuss the important principles of fairness and equity in access to health and wellbeing and will explore along with evidence of the impact of these factors across different groups.

  • Introduction To Determinants Of Health
  • Acting On Upstream Determinants Of Health
  • Measuring Difference

Course learning outcomes

  • Identify and explain the role of upstream determinants of health on individual and population health and wellbeing
  • Describe the key theories and concepts that underpin the upstream determinants of health
  • Critically reflect on the equity impact of differential access to upstream determinants
  • Explain the interface of the upstream determinants of health with health systems
  • Measure inequities in health and determinants of health using simple indicators

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A