Sociology and Criminology

Health across the Lifecourse

Module code: L3116A
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework

This module introduces you to sociological views on health and how it changes throughout life.

You'll study:

  • through theoretical and empirical work how health and illness are conceptualised and experienced
  • how the state, professions and organisations position themselves and formulate responses, for example through policy, discourse and specific interventions
  • maternal health
  • mental health
  • health inequalities
  • state and private provision of healthcare.

You’ll explore health and life stages from birth and infancy to midlife, old age, and end-of-life experiences and dying, with each week’s topics covering sociological theory and debate and their application to empirical work and policy.

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