Sociology and Criminology

Health across the Lifecourse

Module code: L3116B
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework

The module introduces you to sociological perspectives of health across the lifecourse. Through theoretical and empirical work you’ll examine how health and illness are conceptualised and experienced. You’ll also look at how the state, professions and organisations position themselves, as well as how they formulate responses through policy, discourse and specific interventions.

You’ll explore contemporary issues concerning health, including:

• maternal health
• mental health
• health inequalities
• state and private provision of healthcare.

You’ll take a lifecourse approach, from birth and infancy through midlife and old age to death and dying. Each week’s topics will cover sociological theory and debate.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate understanding and knowledge of key topics and debates in the sociology of health and illness
• Assess the strengths and weaknesses of empirical material as evidence in specific cases
• Critically evaluate competing theoretical perspectives on health and illness