Social epidemiology applies to the disciplinary approach of epidemiology examining and understanding the contributions of social conditions and processes to the unequal patterns of health and ill health in populations. The course will explore both the specific theories explaining the relation between social conditions and health as well as its methodological tools. Theories focusing on inequalities related to social position and gender will be in focus and presented and discussed during the course. Material, cultural/behavioural, psycho-social, life-course and policy explanations for social inequalities in health will be presented and discussed. Practical approaches on how to measure individual socioeconomic position and area deprivation indexes and how to explore its relationship with health will be provided.
Teaching on the course is concentrated to three weeks during the course period. Teaching is performed through plenary lectures, group work, hands-on training, seminars and home assignments. Teaching is given in English.
Social epidemiology - theory and methods, 7.5 credits
Autumn Term 2025
Starts
4 December 2025
Ends
18 January 2026
Study location
Umeå
Language
English
Type of studies
Daytime,
100%
Required Knowledge
For non-programme students applying as single-course students, the requirements are 120 ECTS, of which a minimum of 30 ECTS are within one of the following: health sciences, environmental health or social sciences. To be admitted to the course the applicant must have passed the course 3FH038 Epidemiology or have equivalent qualifications.
English proficiency equivalent to English B/6 from Swedish Upper secondary education. Basic entrance requirements for higher studies in Swedish language proficiency is also required if the course is taught in Swedish.
Academic credits
Applicants in some programs at Umeå University have guaranteed admission to this course. The number of places for a single course may therefore be limited.
Application code
UMU-F3021
Application
Online applications are now open. You will be transferred to Universityadmissions.se.
Application deadline is
15 January 2025. How to apply
As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
