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Inequalities in Global Health

Key information

  • Module code:

    4SSHM00B

  • Level:

    4

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

Global Health is a field of study, research and practice that recognises that the project of reducing disease, safeguarding well - being and providing adequate healthcare is shaped by factors that transcend national boundaries and which are thus beyond the capacity of individual nation states to address individually or through their domestic institutions. Our introductory modules in global health introduce students to the key concepts and debates in global health, and use case studies to illuminate these inequalities and the political, economic, social, and structural forces that perpetuate them.

In this module we focus on the politics of global health in order critically assess the role that governmental, institutional and corporate actors play in financing, governing and delivering healthcare worldwide. We consider a number of case studies to examine this. These are likely to be: global pandemics and biosecurity; HIV/AIDS; tuberculosis and malaria; reproductive health care; and global mental health. We conclude by considering the problems of global health governance in a rapidly changing world.

Assessment details

  • 1 x 500 Word Essay Outline (0%)
  • 1 x 1,500 Word Essay (50%)
  • 1 x 1,500 Word Essay (50%)

Educational aims & objectives

The educational aims of this module are:

  • To introduce students to key concepts and debates regarding what global health is and how it might be secured.
  • To provide students with an understanding of the relationship between political, economic and social factors in the delivery of global health initiatives.
  • To provide students with the skills to critically evaluate such initiatives and to identify the role of key stakeholders in shaping them.
  • To demonstrate the value of interdisciplinary approaches to global health.
  • To provide insights into the use of particular methodological and epistemological tools in the production of global health research.

Teaching pattern

One weekly two-hour lecture and one weekly one-hour seminar. 


Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.