The quality of human habitats is fundamental to our survival and quality of life. This is a basic premise, still true but perhaps less obvious than it used to be since most of us are now separated from, and tend to take for granted, the natural environment. In terms of day to day interactions, human health is determined to a large extent by the features of the built environment, and the rise of cities means our focus is particularly the metropolis. The predominant environmental hazards have changed over time. They have become more complex also - think about the rapid movement of infectious agents around the world, the causes of hunger under a global food system, and all the factors acting on climate change and the consequent effects on health.
The course is designed for students from a variety of backgrounds. However, it helps if you have already completed Principles of Public Health (POPLHLTH 760). This course complements Health Protection (POPLHLTH 726), which deals with the day to day management of local environmental hazards.