Well-functioning health systems are increasingly recognised as essential for improving health outcomes and facilitating access to services, health equity and social protection. Across settings, they are vital to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Health systems guided by effective governance, and responsive policies that can meet the dynamic health needs of a population, while fostering accountability, are seen as central to the global public health agenda. This module prepares students for work or research in health systems. For example: in strategic planning, policy design, or programme implementation, at the national, regional, and district level; in international organisations; NGOs; or academic institutions. The module introduces students to key health systems concepts, illustrated through case studies that highlight ongoing debates on national and international agendas. It seeks to equip students with the language and understanding to critique health systems and to engage in high level debates.

The overall aim of the module is to demonstrate understanding of the functioning of health systems, drawing on relevant disciplinary perspectives to enable students to undertake analysis of health systems globally. This module will involve understanding the core building blocks of health care systems, their modes of operation and the implications of different approaches to system design for access, quality, and broader outcomes. Throughout, the impact of equity on different health system features is highlighted.

Intended learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the module a student should be able to:

1. Define the concept of a ‘health system’, and its core objectives, elements and functions.
2. Explain key debates, theories and conceptual approaches related to understanding health systems and their boundaries.
3. Apply a range of approaches and models to analyse the historical and contemporary social, economic, political and environmental factors which influence health systems.
4. Analyse how different health system actors, institutions and configurations both shape and are shaped by wider health outcomes and societal relations—in particular gender, equity and climate change.
5. Critically appraise and apply key concepts and approaches to health systems evaluation and performance measurement, including analysing the roles of local and global policy actors.
6. Apply health systems approaches to major health challenges in a range of different contexts.

Assessment

This module is assessed by:

• A 2,000 word Assessed Assignment Essay (50%).
• A 1,500 word Assessed Assignment Editorial (50%).

Mode of delivery

Our distance learning modules are delivered entirely online via directed self-study and online materials via the Virtual Learning Environment.

Module duration

Distance learning module studies begin at the start of October each year. Students may start their studies at any time once they gain access to Moodle (the virtual learning environment) and study materials, and work through the materials in line with the assessment schedules. The study year runs from the beginning of October through to June examinations. Some students also study between June and September with extended tutorial support (e.g. those undertaking projects, the Clinical Trials integrating report, or two of the Epidemiology modules). Deadlines for submission of coursework vary per programme but are usually in February, March, May, and September.

How you'll study

Our distance learning programmes are predominantly online and largely self-directed study to enable you to study independently and at times convenient to you. You'll have access to tutorial support and the ability to interact with other students and form study groups throughout the study year via the discussions in our Virtual Learning Environment, Moodle.

Credits

• CATS: 15
• ECTS: 7.5

Module specification

For full information regarding this module please see the module specification.

Please note: information based on the 2025-26 module specification subject to change for 2026-27 entry.