Description: (Same as Community Health Sciences M259.) Lecture, two hours; discussion, two hours. Recommended requisite: course 286. Overview of essential theories regarding development, implementation, and impact of public health policies in U.S. with emphasis on state and local governments. Students develop skills in public health policy research (laws, regulations, statutes, ordinances) and engage in critically analyzing evidence for different approaches currently used to address some of main causes of death and disability in U.S. including tobacco, alcohol, firearms, food and nutrition, and motor vehicle safety. Readings, case studies, exploration of public use data, group discussions, and directed individual research. Students engage in discussion and debate regarding contemporary challenges and emerging trends. S/U or letter grading.

Units: 4.0