There is a pressing need to study the complex relationships between the environment and human health, especially as we are increasingly challenged by environmental health issues. This course introduces students to various issues related to environment and health in providing an academic environment of inquiry and dialogue where graduate students from various disciplines can exchange ideas, information and insights.

Through participation in the affiliated public environment and health seminar series and student-led seminars, the aim is to expose the students to the many ways that issues related to the environment and health are framed, examined, discussed, and addressed.

The course will stimulate students to reflect on this diverse discussion and to integrate their work into a broader context and perspective. Students will have the opportunity to explore linkages between environmental factors and health issues as these intersect with environmental and health policy, toxicological impacts, psychosocial factors, economic factors, and ethical and legal issues.

Objectives: Upon course completion, students will: have an understanding of the complex, interdisciplinary nature of environment and health issues; have an understanding of the importance of cross-disciplinary dialogue to fully comprehend how human health and the environment are interconnected and to develop effective interventions; have acquired the skills necessary to research and critically assess scholarly information on topics related to environment and health and to communicate them in a manner that fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and engagement.