GEOG 2138 - Population and Health

This course aims to introduce students to demographic and geographical perspectives in the study of population health. It provides students with the theoretical foundation, empirical knowledge, and analytical skills to unravel the linkages between the distribution and determinants of health-related states and the environment in populations. It examines health variations between diverse groups of the population differentiated by demographic and socio-economic characteristics and between different spatial scales with differing environmental characteristics and problems. There will be a particular focus on population mobility (migration, displacement) and health. As environmental pressures, especially climate change, intensify in many regions of the world, the interactions between migration and health will become significant. An increased understanding of the intersections between climate (environmental) change, migration, and human health is a pressing need to inform policy response. While this course focuses on the Australian population and health situations, students will learn about the significant population and health issues globally, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. The course will examine health and disease patterns, causal mechanisms, and different outcomes in populations and discuss what policy and interventions will be needed to address health challenges, including the consequential COVID-19 pandemics.