Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit introduces students to a population view of health and provides a framework for understanding population health issues. Using this framework, discussions are based on how we know what the major health issues are, who is at risk of ill health, what are the determinants or influences on human health and disease, and what is the potential for prevention. Tutorials address case studies on current health issues that illustrate the population health approach to describing and addressing patterns of health and disease in populations. One tutorial may comprise a two-hour field trip within metropolitan Perth.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the Public Health major sequence
  • Level 1 option in the Humanities in Health and Medicine major sequence
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe what is meant by the terms 'health' and 'population health'; (2) discuss the main causes of mortality and morbidity in Australia and globally; (3) apply a conceptual framework for examining population health issues; (4) outline the factors (biological, sociocultural, environmental, economic and political) that influence the distribution of health in Australia and elsewhere; (5) discuss the reason why some groups in society have poorer health outcomes, such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, refugees, etc; (6) identify approaches to the prevention of ill health and management of population health; (7) examine data relevant to population health; and (8) report key aspects of a population health issue succinctly and effectively.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tutorial participation; (2) an essay; and (3) a two-hour examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Ania Stasinska
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
tutorials: 2 hours per week
Note
This unit is available to Study Abroad students.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.