The unit aims to enable students to critically evaluate the processes that contribute to the formulation of policies related to public health and explore their subsequent implementation and impact.

This unit is mainly asynchronous, with only a few sessions being taught in real time online.

This unit is one of the optional units for the MSc Public Health.

This course requires 100% attendance.

Learning outcomes

Having successfully completed this unit the student is expected to:

1. Understand and critically appraise the processes by which public health issues emerge on to the policy-making agenda and their translation into policy initiatives.
2. Appreciate the value of and identify the means to deliver cross-sector and/or  trans-national policy making taking into account UN SDG’s.
3. Be able to identify and critically evaluate the range of measures available to policy-makers when seeking  to protect and safeguard the health of the public. 
4. Critically appraise policy-making in terms of effective implementation, potential enforcement and public compliance.

Assessment

Students submit one piece of assessed work at the end of the unit. The assessment requires students to critically review policy-making activities and assess their impact upon health and wellbeing outcomes. 

Students are also offered an opportunity to submit a small sample of their formative written work for feedback.