What if your ZIP code matters more than your genetic code when it comes to health? 

In H 225 Social Determinants of Health, you’ll explore how where people live, work, learn and age impacts their chances of staying healthy or getting sick.

You’ll look at real-world issues like housing, education, racism, income and access to health care to understand how social systems create health gaps between groups.

Whether you’re planning a career in health or just want to understand the world more clearly, this course gives you the tools to think critically about the connections between society and well-being.

What makes this course stand out?

Unpacks the big picture

Learn how health is shaped by policies, systems and environments—not just personal choices.

Relevant to real life

From racism and housing to education and income, you’ll examine how different factors influence who gets sick and who doesn’t.

Interactive and engaging

Through discussions, projects and multimedia resources, you’ll explore complex topics in a way that’s accessible and thought-provoking.

No prerequisites and no cost and for all majors

This course is a strong fit for students in health, education, social sciences, policy and beyond. All course materials are provided at no cost.

Fulfills Core Education and Bacc Core requirements

This Core Education course fulfills the requirements for the Difference Power, and Oppression (DPO) Foundations category.

In addition, this course also fulfills the Baccalaureate Core requirements for the Perspectives: Social Processes and Institutions category.

Why take this course?

Interested in medicine or health care?

Understand the broader forces that shape patient outcomes.

Studying sociology, anthropology or psychology?

Explore how identity and systems affect individual and community well-being.

Planning to work in education, policy or social work?

Learn what drives inequities—and how communities respond with resilience and advocacy.

Business major?

Understand how social systems, policy and inequality shape the health—and productivity—of people, communities and workforces.

Exploratory studies major?

H 225 is a powerful, flexible Core Ed course that builds your understanding of health, equity and systems—no matter what major you choose.

Want to be more informed?

This course helps you think critically about health and justice in today’s world.