Primary and Public Healthcare: Global Health - GH716DL

This module will offer insights to the impact of the environment, culture, perceptions, health education and preventative health strategies to form the foundations of health and a functioning health care system
Global Health - MLI cake celebration

Key features

This module will compare and contrast different types of health systems globally and apply a deep and systematic understanding of the key principles of primary health care and public health policy and practice for health systems strengthening, particularly for communities experiencing health inequalities. Students will critically analyse impacts of broad social determinants of health on human health and health inequalities in impoverished communities.
It will ask participants to consider key principles and pillars of primary health care and critically analyse how different healthcare systems approach primary health care. It will engage participants in critical debate, drawing on their own lived experience to offer insights to the impact of the environment, culture, perceptions, health education and preventative health strategies to form the foundations of health and a functioning health care system.
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Module details

Learning outcomes
  • Apply a deep and systematic understanding of the key principles and pillars of primary health care and public health.
  • Critically analyse how different healthcare systems approach primary health care and public health.
  • Critique and apply contradictory and incomplete evidence behind social inequalities, key social determinants of health and community participatory approaches.
  • Synthesise complex information regarding public health education and prevention strategies and policies to select novel approaches to address health system strengthening.
Summary of Module Content
  • Inequalities & Social Determinants of Health.
  • Principles of Primary Health Care.
  • Community Participatory Approaches.
  • Using Evidence in Policy & Practice.
  • Policy Development.
  • Key Public Health skills (i.e. health needs assessment and evaluation of complex interventions) for population health based approach.
  • Principles of Leadership for Health System Strengthening Capacity development and whole health system strengthening approach.
  • Environment and Health and OneHealth.
  • How Health Interacts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Principles and practice of epidemiology.

A flexible and engaging online learning experience

This 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

GH716DL

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

January - April 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