Human Health and Health Inequalities in Coastal Communities - GH718

Consider the marine ecosystem from a ‘One Health’ global perspective
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Key features

This module aims to consider the marine ecosystem from a ‘One Health’ global perspective. Building upon Plymouth expertise in researching and supporting the marine environment, this module will consider the impacts on human health and communities of challenges to the marine ecosystem including food sustainability, employment, pollution and health, climate change and changing marine and coastal environments, and health inequalities experienced by coastal communities locally and globally.

You will critically appraise challenges experienced in the marine environment and their impacts upon human health and coastal environments. This will be founded upon the concept of One Health and take both a local and global perspective. Developments in support of coastal communities and aiming to reduce inequalities in coastal communities will be critically evaluated and applied to specific examples and contexts relevant to students' experience.
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Module details

Learning outcomes
  • Apply a systematic understanding of the challenges to marine ecosystems including (but not exclusively) climate change, pollution, fishing, natural disasters.
  • Critically analyse and evaluate the complexities of marine ecosystem impacts upon human health from a ‘One Health’ perspective.
  • Synthesize advanced and specialist information to address the impacts of challenges upon coastal communities, applying health inequalities concepts, social determinants frameworks, and approaches to policy analysis.
  • Select and adapt appropriate advanced problem-solving strategies to address health inequalities and to generate innovative and sustainable solutions to health challenges within coastal communities.
Summary of Module Content
  • Introduction to Marine Ecosystems and their Significance for Human Health.
  • Types and sources of marine pollution (e.g., plastics, chemicals, oil spills, sewage) and their impact on human health.
  • Global trends in fish consumption and production and implications for food and water sustainability.
  • Effects of climate change on marine ecosystems and coastal communities (e.g., ocean acidification, rising sea levels, HABs/red tide, flood risk, coastal erosion).
  • Principles of One Health in the context of marine ecosystems.
  • International agreements and frameworks related to marine health (e.g., UN Sustainable Development Goals).
  • Contemporary solutions to dealing with health challenges within marine environments.

A flexible and engaging online learning experience

Our Human Health and Health Inequalities in Coastal Communities module has been redesigned from the ground up for distance learning, with flexibility and engagement at its core. This isn’t a traditional module simply moved online - it has been carefully crafted to make the most of digital learning, ensuring a rich and interactive experience that fits around your life.

Through a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning, you will benefit from the best of both worlds - independent study at your own pace, alongside real-time engagement with leading experts and peers.
Asynchronous content - recorded lectures, readings, and interactive materials - will allow you to explore key topics at a time that suits you. At the same time, synchronous sessions provide valuable opportunities for live discussion, debate, and collaboration, ensuring you can remain connected with staff and fellow learners. This approach fosters a global learning community, where diverse perspectives enrich understanding of complex health challenges.

With access to cutting-edge research, expert-led teaching, and a dynamic online environment, this module will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and networks to advance your career - all without the constraints of a traditional classroom or having to step away from your career.
Whoever you are, whatever you do, and wherever you are in the world, the University of Plymouth MSc Global Health programme fits around your life.
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Module code

GH718DL

Credits

20

FHEQ Level

Level 7 - masters degree

Location

Online delivery

Admissions information

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
  • Application forms.
  • Change of name forms.
  • Pre-course information.
  • Downloadable guides.
  • Student card.
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Module dates

April - June 2026. Exact dates to be confirmed.
Occasionally delivery dates might be subject to change - always check with the module lead or Professional Development Unit.
Please be aware that all modules run to minimum numbers.
In the event that there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date.
Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers.

Module lead

The lead for this module is Dr Michael Dillon

Entry requirements

Normally a recognised first degree or equivalent will be required with a minimum of an upper second (2:1) class honours degree in a relevant global health subject (e.g. health professionals, media studies, politics and economics, human rights, health economics, health management, veterinary practice, community forestry, psychology, sociology). This could be wide ranging in terms of topics and disciplines.

Applicants with a lower second-class (2:2) honours degree or a recognised professional qualification at an equivalent level will be considered where they can demonstrate relevant experience or further professional development.

Fees

The fees for this module are £1,260
InterCity Place

You can contact the Professional Development Unit with any queries

Prospective student enquiries:
Current student enquiries:
Professional Development Unit, Floor 9, InterCity Place, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 6AB
Monday – Thursday 08:30–17:00 and Friday 08:30–16:30