Introduction to Health Studies

Social, economic, cultural, environmental and psychological factors affect the health of people living in Aotearoa New Zealand. In this course, students develop strategies for gathering information about causes of ill health, investigate effects of ill health, and evaluate the effectiveness of health-related policies and interventions. During the second part of the course expert guest lecturers introduce their research on mental well-being, adolescent health, and problematic substance use. Students use local and international research to investigate a health problem and present that research in a well-structured, well-referenced report.

15 points

Te Wero - Maori Health Issues and Opportunities

This course introduces students to a selection of historical and contemporary Maori health content within a Treaty of Waitangi framework, to support robust analyses of Maori population health issues. Exploring what Maori health was and is, students will be challenged to consider the promise of Maori health and its significance for current and future Aotearoa New Zealand.

15 points

Epidemiology

This course introduces students to the measurement of health and disease in populations. Students will learn about defining and measuring health and disease. The course will cover quantitative methods to assess health and disease, including introductory epidemiology and biostatistics.

15 points

Introduction to Health Education

This course is designed to be an introduction to Health Education through the exploration of fundamental and underlying concepts. It explores and applies the Maori concept of Hauora to the wellbeing of self, relationships, and a range of populations. Students will examine the historical underpinnings of Health Education and develop an in-depth knowledge of current best practice. They will identify health issues that constitute barriers to learning and explore strategies and agencies that work to address these. A strong focus on the conceptual framework of Health education and the socio-cultural factors that determine the wellbeing of a population will be explored.

15 points

Building Resilience

This course is designed as an introduction to the concept of mental health. It examines concepts of mental health and resilience and considers these in relation to the determinants of health. The course develops students' understanding of models of best practice in mental health education and promotion. Students will explore a range of mental health issues and demonstrate a range of strategies designed to enhance their own and others' mental health.

15 points

Health Promotion

This course will provide an understanding of the differing ways in which the health needs of a population or society may be perceived, assessed and addressed, and how health may be promoted through legislated and policy measures, and community based health promotion or preventive programmes.

15 points

Any 60 points at 100 level from any subject, or any 30 points at 100 level from HLTH or SPCO