OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
Coursera logo

Health Equity Research & Practice

Local & Global Lessons

Lisa A. Cooper, M.D.

This course introduces students to the local and global lessons in health equity research and practice, covering topics such as the effects of structural drivers and systems of power on health equity and inequities in reproductive health and immigrant health. This course then goes on to apply these lessons to health equity research projects in settings around the world. Through exploration of global interventions, learners will be prepared to take on health disparities in their local communities by understanding why these health problems exist, what contributes to them, and how to create sustainable solutions. This course includes lectures, panel discussions, and interviews with leading experts.

Enroll now

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until March 12, 2027
Save 40% Off 3 Months
Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.
Take
40%
off
Get offer

What's inside

Syllabus

The Effects of Structural Drivers and Systems of Power on Health Equity
Inequities in Reproductive Health
Inequities in Immigrant Health
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops an understanding of local and global lessons in health equity research and practice
Taught by Lisa A. Cooper, MD, who is recognized for their work in health equity research
Explores the effects of structural drivers and systems of power on health equity
Examines inequities in reproductive health and immigrant health
Applies lessons to health equity research projects in settings around the world

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Health equity: global & local insights

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and highly relevant exploration of health equity, providing both global and local lessons. Students particularly praise the expert-led content, noting the invaluable insights from leading professionals through engaging lectures, panel discussions, and interviews. The course is highlighted for equipping participants with a strong understanding of structural drivers and systems of power, as well as specific inequities in areas like reproductive and immigrant health. Many find the course provides practical tools and strategies for developing sustainable solutions to health disparities, making the learning directly applicable. While largely positive, a few reviews suggest that a foundational understanding of public health concepts might be beneficial to fully grasp all nuances, and the course's broad coverage might mean some topics are not explored in extreme depth.
The mix of lectures, panels, and interviews enhances the overall learning experience.
"The combination of lectures and expert interviews kept the content fresh and engaging throughout the duration of the course."
"I enjoyed the diverse presentation styles, especially the panel discussions that offered different viewpoints and case studies."
"The course utilized different formats effectively to explain complex topics, making it easier to absorb challenging information."
The course provides a robust understanding of health equity's complex determinants.
"The material on structural drivers and systems of power was incredibly eye-opening and provided a critical foundation for my research."
"I now have a much clearer grasp of inequities in reproductive health and immigrant health, which are critical areas in public health."
"This course offers a holistic overview of health equity, seamlessly connecting many different, interconnected aspects of the field."
Learners appreciate the actionable strategies for both local and global health equity contexts.
"I gained practical tools to address health disparities in my community, which was exactly what I needed for my professional work."
"The course effectively connected global interventions with local applicability, making the lessons highly relevant and immediately useful."
"I can now better understand why health problems exist and how to create sustainable solutions based on evidence and best practices."
The course significantly benefits from the contributions of leading health equity experts.
"The insights from the leading experts and practitioners were invaluable, offering real-world context and depth."
"I found the panel discussions and interviews particularly enriching, providing diverse perspectives that deepened my understanding."
"The instructors bring a remarkable depth of knowledge that really makes complex topics accessible and engaging."
The extensive topics covered may lead to a broad overview rather than deep dives.
"The course covers a lot of ground; I would have appreciated more in-depth exploration of certain highly specific topics."
"Given the breadth of content, some modules felt a bit rushed, preventing a deeper dive into particular issues."
"While thorough in its scope, I sometimes felt the course touched on many subjects without fully delving into each one."
Some learners may find it beneficial to have a foundational understanding of public health.
"While comprehensive, a basic background in public health would have made some initial concepts easier to grasp, especially in the early modules."
"I felt some sections moved quite quickly, seemingly assuming a certain level of familiarity with public health terminology and frameworks."
"This course seems best suited for those already in or looking to enter public health research and practice, rather than complete beginners."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Health Equity Research & Practice: Local & Global Lessons with these activities:
Review basic concepts in health statistics
Ensures a strong foundation in statistical concepts essential for analyzing health data and assessing health disparities.
Show steps
  • Review notes or textbooks from previous statistics courses.
  • Complete online exercises or practice problems.
  • Seek clarification from a tutor or instructor if needed.
Review Key Concepts of Health Equity
Refreshes foundational knowledge of health equity to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on Health Equity
Show steps
  • Review definitions and key terms related to health equity.
  • Identify the different levels of health equity and disparities.
  • Examine the social and structural factors that influence health equity.
Read 'The Health Gap' by Michael Marmot
Provides a comprehensive overview of the social, economic, and political determinants of health and health disparities.
View The Health Gap: The Challenge of an Unequal... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book.
  • Read the book thoroughly.
  • Take notes and highlight key concepts.
  • Discuss the book with classmates or colleagues.
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Form a study group with classmates
Encourages collaboration, discussion, and a deeper understanding of course concepts.
Show steps
  • Reach out to classmates and form a study group.
  • Establish a regular meeting schedule.
  • Review course materials and discuss key concepts.
  • Work together on assignments and projects.
Complete online tutorials on immigrant health disparities
Provides additional insights and practical knowledge on the health challenges faced by immigrant populations.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on immigrant health disparities.
  • Select a reputable tutorial and complete it.
  • Take notes and summarize key points.
  • Discuss the tutorial with classmates or colleagues.
Explore Case Studies of Health Equity Interventions
Strengthens understanding of health equity interventions through guided tutorials on real-world examples.
Show steps
  • Identify different types of health equity interventions.
  • Analyze the effectiveness and challenges of various interventions.
  • Develop critical thinking skills in evaluating health equity strategies.
Develop a presentation on the social determinants of health
Helps you understand and communicate the complex factors that influence health outcomes.
Browse courses on Social Determinants of Health
Show steps
  • Research and gather information on the social determinants of health.
  • Create an outline for your presentation.
  • Develop slides and visual aids.
  • Practice your presentation.
  • Present to your classmates or a community group.
Volunteer at a local community health center
Provides hands-on experience working with underserved populations and addressing health disparities.
Browse courses on Health Equity
Show steps
  • Contact a local community health center and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Complete any required training or orientation.
  • Volunteer regularly at the health center.
  • Reflect on your experiences and how they relate to the course material.
Create a comprehensive course notebook
Promotes organization, retention, and easy access to course materials.
Show steps
  • Gather all course materials, including lectures, readings, and assignments.
  • Organize the materials in a logical order.
  • Create summaries, notes, and outlines.
  • Review the notebook regularly.
Analyze real-world health data on health equity
Provides hands-on experience in working with health data and identifying patterns related to health disparities.
Browse courses on Health Equity
Show steps
  • Obtain a dataset on health indicators and socioeconomic factors.
  • Use statistical software or tools to analyze the data.
  • Identify trends and patterns related to health disparities.
  • Write a report or presentation summarizing the findings.

Career center

Learners who complete Health Equity Research & Practice: Local & Global Lessons will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Community Health Educator
Community Health Educators play a critical role in improving the health of communities by addressing health disparities and promoting health equity. This course provides a solid foundation in the effects of structural drivers and systems of power on health equity, as well as inequities in reproductive health and immigrant health. This knowledge is essential for Community Health Educators to effectively identify and address the root causes of health disparities and develop culturally appropriate interventions to improve health outcomes for all.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Health Educator
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts play a vital role in shaping health policies and programs that impact health equity. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the local and global lessons in health equity research and practice, equipping Health Policy Analysts with the knowledge and skills to analyze health policies, identify disparities, and advocate for evidence-based policies that promote health equity.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst
Public Health Researcher
Public Health Researchers conduct research to identify and address health disparities and promote health equity. This course provides a strong foundation in health equity research methods and approaches, as well as the application of these methods to local and global health equity projects. This knowledge is essential for Public Health Researchers to design and implement rigorous research studies that contribute to the evidence base for health equity interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Researcher
Social Worker
Social Workers play a crucial role in addressing the social determinants of health and promoting health equity. This course provides a deep understanding of the effects of structural drivers and systems of power on health equity, as well as inequities in reproductive health and immigrant health. This knowledge is essential for Social Workers to effectively advocate for their clients, develop culturally competent interventions, and work towards creating a more equitable society.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and methods of epidemiology, with a focus on health equity research. This knowledge is essential for Epidemiologists to identify and address health disparities, develop prevention and control strategies, and evaluate the effectiveness of health equity interventions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Health Educator
Health Educators play a vital role in promoting health and preventing disease, with a particular focus on addressing health disparities. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the local and global lessons in health equity research and practice, as well as the application of these lessons to health education interventions. This knowledge is essential for Health Educators to develop and implement effective health education programs that promote health equity.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator
Program Manager
Program Managers oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of health programs, with a focus on improving health outcomes for underserved populations. This course provides a strong foundation in health equity research and practice, as well as the application of these principles to program management. This knowledge is essential for Program Managers to design and implement effective health programs that address health disparities and promote health equity.
See salaries and explore the career path for Program Manager
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisors provide expert advice to policymakers on a wide range of issues, including health equity. This course provides a deep understanding of the local and global lessons in health equity research and practice, as well as the application of these lessons to policy development. This knowledge is essential for Policy Advisors to effectively advise policymakers on health equity issues and advocate for policies that promote health equity.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Advisor
Community Organizer
Community Organizers work with communities to identify and address their health concerns, with a particular focus on health equity. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and methods of community organizing, as well as the application of these principles to health equity initiatives. This knowledge is essential for Community Organizers to effectively engage communities in health equity work and develop sustainable solutions to health disparities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations, with a focus on achieving their mission and goals, often related to health equity. This course provides a deep understanding of the principles and practices of nonprofit management, as well as the application of these principles to health equity organizations. This knowledge is essential for Nonprofit Managers to effectively lead health equity organizations and achieve their goals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators oversee the operations of healthcare organizations, with a focus on improving the quality and efficiency of care. This course may be useful for Healthcare Administrators who are interested in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity within their organizations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator
Physician
Physicians provide medical care to patients, with a focus on diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries. This course may be useful for Physicians who are interested in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity in their practice.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician
Nurse
Nurses provide care to patients, with a focus on promoting health and preventing disease. This course may be useful for Nurses who are interested in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity in their practice.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nurse
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and provide advice on their use, with a focus on ensuring the safe and effective use of medications. This course may be useful for Pharmacists who are interested in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity in their practice.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist
Dentist
Dentists provide dental care to patients, with a focus on preventing and treating oral diseases. This course may be useful for Dentists who are interested in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity in their practice.
See salaries and explore the career path for Dentist

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Health Equity Research & Practice: Local & Global Lessons.
Cover image
Medical Apartheid
Save
Documents the history of medical experimentation on Black Americans. It shocking and disturbing account of the racism and exploitation that has been perpetrated in the name of science.
Medical Apartheid
Paperback
Check
Medical Apartheid
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down
Save
Tells the story of a Hmong family's struggle to navigate the American healthcare system. It powerful and moving account of the challenges of cross-cultural communication and the importance of cultural sensitivity in healthcare.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong...
Paperback
$
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong...
Paperback
$$
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Save
Tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a Black woman whose cells were taken without her consent and used to create the HeLa cell line. It thought-provoking and important book about the ethics of medical research and the exploitation of marginalized communities.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Paperback
$
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks Reprint...
Paperback
$$
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Natives, Why...
Paperback
$$
(中文) The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (Chinese...
Paperback
$$
(中文) The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (Chinese...
Paperback
$$
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Health Gap
Save
Argues that health inequities are a result of social and economic inequalities. It provides a powerful case for investing in social programs and policies that can improve the health of all people.
The Health Gap: The Challenge of an Unequal World
Hardcover
$$
The Health Gap, Status Syndrome 2 Books Collection...
Paperback
$$
The Health Gap: The Challenge of an Unequal World
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Mountains Beyond Mountains (Adapted for Young...
Save
This biography tells the story of Dr. Paul Farmer, a physician who has dedicated his life to providing healthcare to the world's poorest people. It is an inspiring and moving account of one man's commitment to social justice.
Mountains Beyond Mountains (Adapted for Young...
Paperback
$
Mountains Beyond Mountains (Adapted for Young...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Implications of the California Wildfires for Health...
Save
This report from The Lancet Commission on Global Health Equity argues that the right to health fundamental human right. It provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges to achieving health equity globally, and outlines a set of recommendations for governments and other stakeholders.
Implications of the California Wildfires for Health...
Paperback
$$
Implications of the California Wildfires for Health...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Perspectives on Health Equity and Social...
Save
This report from the National Academy of Medicine provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the factors that shape health and health equity.
Perspectives on Health Equity and Social...
Paperback
Check
Perspectives on Health Equity and Social...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Global status report on alcohol and health and...
Save
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the World Health Organization's Framework for Action on Social Determinants of Health. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the social determinants of health and the ways to promote health equity.
Global status report on alcohol and health and...
Paperback
Check
Global status report on alcohol and health and...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Our Hospital
Save
This novel provides a satirical look at the American medical system. It dark and funny book that explores the ethical challenges of practicing medicine in a profit-driven system.
Our Hospital
Paperback
Check
Our Hospital
Kindle Edition
Check

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Health Equity Research & Practice: Local & Global Lessons.
Social Determinants of Health: Health Care Systems
Most relevant
Translating Research to Healthcare Policy
Most relevant
Advancing Health Equity: A Guide to Reducing Bias in...
Most relevant
Faster Together, Enhancing the Recruitment of...
Most relevant
Human Health Risks, Health Equity, and Environmental...
Most relevant
Social Determinants of Health: Methodological...
Most relevant
Telehealth Best Practices and Uses
Most relevant
Introduction to Participatory Approaches in Public Health
Most relevant
Achieving Health Equity in Healthcare
Most relevant

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Accredited University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions; free audit option available on most individual courses to explore video lectures and readings at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Refund Guarantee

14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus subscriptions and single-course purchases prior to certificate issuance. Monthly subscriptions do not offer refunds once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Accredited university and industry certifications (e.g. Stanford, Google, IBM, Yale), secure SSL payment processing, and verifiable digital certificate links.

Key Purchase Protections
14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus and single courses
7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions
Free course audit option for lectures and readings
Verified certificates from top universities & companies
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Effort
11 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Johns Hopkins University
Instructor
Lisa A. Cooper, M.D.
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops an understanding of local and global lessons in health equity research and practice
Taught by Lisa A. Cooper, MD, who is recognized for their work in health equity research
Explores the effects of structural drivers and systems of power on health equity
Examines inequities in reproductive health and immigrant health
Applies lessons to health equity research projects in settings around the world
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Health Equity Research & Practice.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser