BSc Public Health (on campus) / Course details

Year of entry: 2026

Course unit details:
Globalisation and the Commercial Determinants of Health

Course unit fact file
Unit code POPH20022
Credit rating 20
Unit level Level 5
Teaching period(s) Semester 2
Offered by Division of Population Health, Health Services Res
Available as a free choice unit? No

Overview

This unit will focus on globalisation and its impact on the economy and in turn on health at a global level. i.e. “health is wealth”. 

We will also consider the commercial determinants of health and how the private sector has both positive and negative impacts on global health through its influence on policy, environments and health choices. 
 

Aims

The unit aims to: explore the concept, process and impact of globalisation on the economy and health at a global level.  The unit also aims to develop students critically understanding of the commercial determinants of health and how the private sector has both positive and negative impacts on global health through its influence on policy, environments and health choices. 

Teaching and learning methods

On-campus students only:  Academic engagement includes lectures, seminars, workshops and other face to face activities. To achieve the intended learning outcomes for this course unit, we have created a range of activities. Your course unit leads and teaching team will support you including access to the Student Development Programme including peer-support (PASS) and the Programme Director Seminar Series. We will consult with students to identify any additional needs and further academic engagement activities will be provided. Assessments, preparation for assessments, reading time and independent study are also included within you timetabled activities.

Distance/blended learning students only: Students on this mode of study will have the opportunity to study synchronously with the on campus students and asynchronously via recorded sessions and online resources. 
 

Knowledge and understanding

Students will be able to: 

A1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concept, process and impact of globalisation on the economy and health at a global level

A2 Explain how our environments influence our health and wellbeing in a globalised context

A3 Interpret the commercial determinants of health and the impact of globalisation on health and wellbeing. 
 

Intellectual skills

B1 Evaluate the evidence required for health policy and practice

B2 Assess the impact on health on the wealth of a nation and to the individual

B3 Analyse the principles of globalisation on public health and the economy.
 

Practical skills

C1 Locate existing sources of evidence and data relevant to clinical and non-clinical health questions

C2 Use relevant evidence to debate global healthcare issues. 
 

Transferable skills and personal qualities

D1 Reflect upon what will influence the future of global healthcare.

D2 Communicate findings to influence and implement global health interventions.
 

Assessment methods

Method Weight
Written assignment (inc essay) 100%

Feedback methods

  • Students will receive written and verbal feedback in their seminars and discussion boards
  • For their written summative assessment task (2500 words) students will receive written feedback.
     

Recommended reading

Bhardwaj, B.,  Sharma, D. (2022) Migration of Skilled Professionals across the Border: Brain Drain or Brain Gain? European management journal. 

Checchi, F et al. (2017) Public Health Information in Crisis-Affected Populations: a Review of Methods and Their Use for Advocacy and Action. The Lancet (British edition) 390.10109. 2297–2313. 

Chotchoungchatchai, S et al (2020) Primary health care and sustainable development goals. Bulleting of the World Health Organisation. 98:11. Pages 792 - 800.