Class Detail

Why do people live longer today than they did 50 years ago? What drives differences in health between neighborhoods or nations? This course introduces students to questions and concepts central to the study of population health?an interdisciplinary field based in demography, sociology, and epidemiology. It examines the policy implications and limitations of research on population health. Students practice evaluating evidence, translating big-picture concepts into measurable variables, and working with data. Student learning is evaluated through class discussion forums, quizzes, data interpretation assignments, and a take-home final exam.

Prerequisites: GCH 1 or SOCY 1 or SOCY 10 or SOCY 15 or CRES/SOCY 12. Enrollment restricted to sophomore, junior or senior proposed or declared majors and minors in GCH BA, SOCY BA, LALS/SOCY combined BA, GISES minor, and science and justice minor.

If you completed the prerequisites but get an error message, email proof of prerequisite material to the department (socyadvising@ucsc.edu) for approval to enroll.
Exceptions to the prerequisite and enrollment restrictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, and as long as seats are available. Email socyadvising@ucsc.edu to discuss enrollment questions.
From the instructor: There will be an optional Live Digest Session with Professor Riley on Fridays that will also be recorded.

Days & Times	Room	Instructor	Meeting Dates
	Online	Riley,A.	07/28/25 - 08/29/25