SOC/HSP 255 is an introduction to foundational social theories and concepts through the lens of health, healing, and medicine. Social science perspectives on health disparities across populations, how health and disease are defined and managed, and cultural experiences of illness provide a window into a broader understanding of social life. The course will focus on four major social theories - social constructionism, symbolic interactionism, conflict theory, and functionalism. We will use these theoretical foundations and related core concepts to explore topics like physician-patient interaction and the social organization and distribution of health care. SOC/HSP 255 will also provide an introduction to social science research through critical analysis of original scholarly work and exposure to conducting, analyzing, and presenting one's own empirical findings. SOC/HSP 255 is ideal for those with career aspirations in medicine, nursing, or other health professions, and covers the sociology content included on the MCAT exam for pre-med students. This course also provides a critical foundation for those interested in learning about population health from the point of view of social science. Throughout the course, we will explicitly address the unique contributions of social science to a broader understanding of the etiology, treatment, experience, and consequences of illness and disease.

SOC/HSP 255 is an introduction to foundational social theories and concepts through the lens of health, healing, and medicine. Social science perspectives on health disparities across populations, how health and disease are defined and managed, and cultural experiences of illness provide a window into a broader understanding of social life. The course will focus on four major social theories - social constructionism, symbolic interactionism, conflict theory, and functionalism. We will use these theoretical foundations and related core concepts to explore topics like physician-patient interaction and the social organization and distribution of health care. SOC/HSP 255 will also provide an introduction to social science research through critical analysis of original scholarly work and exposure to conducting, analyzing, and presenting one's own empirical findings. SOC/HSP 255 is ideal for those with career aspirations in medicine, nursing, or other health professions, and covers the sociology content included on the MCAT exam for pre-med students. This course also provides a critical foundation for those interested in learning about population health from the point of view of social science. Throughout the course, we will explicitly address the unique contributions of social science to a broader understanding of the etiology, treatment, experience, and consequences of illness and disease.