This module aims to introduce students to the subject matter of contemporary sociology. It will familiarise students with the key concepts used within sociological analysis and demonstrate, using illustrative materials, the uses and continued importance of sociological analysis in the modern and post-modern world. In addition to enhancing students' awareness and understanding of key sociological theories, concepts and issues, this module is oriented to developing students' ability to use sociology as an analytical tool, understand the importance of social determinants and the wider social factors that influence health status, explore the medicalization of society and the role of social institutions such as the healthcare system and the government in shaping our understanding and experience of health, health inequities, illness and stigma. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to critically examine their own assumptions and beliefs about health and illness, and to consider the implications of sociological perspectives for improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities in society.

This module is an introduction to the sociology of health and illness and provides students with a broader understanding of social factors which influence health and well-being and healthcare policy. Content includes: Key sociological concepts and theories; Application of sociological conceptual tools to understanding the social context of health; Illness and healthcare policy; The relevance of sociology from a broader healthcare perspective; Professional-patient/client relationship; Chronic illness experience and illness- related stigma, and; Sociological accounts of health inequalities in relation to social class, gender, ethnicity and discipline-specific practice. Throughout the module, students will be encouraged to critically examine their own assumptions and beliefs about health and illness, and to consider the implications of sociological perspectives for improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities in society.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Define key sociological concepts and established sociological perspectives. Demonstrate ability to use sociological concepts in explaining everyday life. Explain key issues and themes within the sociology of health, illness and healthcare. Evaluate theoretical and empirical concerns within the sociology of health, illness and healthcare at different levels of social analysis (ethnicity, age and social class). Explain how sociological insights and concepts articulate with the philosophy of their discipline.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Demonstrate an appreciation of the value of sociological theory and research to allied health practice.

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Students will participate in the learning environment through engagement in teaching and learning strategies e.g. lectures, discussions, tutorials, group work and presentations, self-directed learning, recommended reading, critical reflection and case scenarios. This module will develop relevant UL students' attributes (to be agile, responsible and articulate) by encouraging students to engage and debate relevant research and theories. The module will reflect the most recent research developments and incorporate relevant healthcare policy. Students will be expected to demonstrate an awareness of how research findings impact on the provision of care in discipline specific practices.