Key facts about Environmental Health and Social Determinants of Health
Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this Environmental Health and Social Determinants of Health course, students will be able to critically analyze the impact of environmental factors on population health, understand the complex interplay between social, economic, and environmental factors affecting health outcomes, and apply this knowledge to promote health equity and environmental justice. They will also develop skills in data analysis related to environmental health and health disparities.
Duration: This intensive program spans 12 weeks, incorporating a blend of lectures, interactive workshops, and hands-on practical sessions using real-world case studies. Flexible learning options are available to accommodate diverse schedules.
Industry Relevance: Graduates possessing expertise in Environmental Health and Social Determinants of Health are highly sought after in various sectors. Public health agencies, environmental consulting firms, non-profit organizations, and government regulatory bodies actively recruit professionals with these skills. Furthermore, increasing awareness of environmental justice and health equity makes this field exceptionally relevant for policy-making and community-based interventions addressing climate change, pollution, and health disparities. Careers might include roles such as Environmental Health Specialist, Health Equity Analyst, or Community Health Worker. The knowledge gained also improves understanding of occupational health and safety and infectious disease control.
Key Skills Developed: The curriculum emphasizes developing practical skills in risk assessment, epidemiological methods, community engagement, and policy advocacy related to Environmental Health and the Social Determinants of Health. Students will also learn to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences, a crucial skill across all relevant industries.
Why this course?
Environmental Health and Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) are increasingly significant in today’s market. The UK faces considerable challenges. For example, air pollution contributes substantially to respiratory illnesses, with Public Health England estimating 36,000 deaths annually attributable to long-term exposure. This highlights the urgent need for integrated approaches addressing both environmental and social factors impacting health outcomes. Further, inequalities in access to healthcare and healthy living environments disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows a stark disparity in life expectancy across different socioeconomic groups. This underscores the critical role of environmental health improvements in achieving health equity. Addressing the impact of SDOH, such as poverty and poor housing, alongside environmental hazards, is vital for improving population health and reducing healthcare burdens.
| Factor |
Statistic |
| Air Pollution Related Deaths |
36,000 (Annual Estimate) |
| Life Expectancy Disparity (Socioeconomic Groups) |
Significant variation (Specific data requires further ONS reference) |