London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

This module introduces students to the role of law, both national and international, as a tool of global health policy. It focuses on developing understanding of the relationship between law and global health policy. It examines how law is employed to address key global health policy challenges and equips students to assess how law can positively or negatively affect health.

The overall module aim is to introduce students to the role of law, enabling them to assess how and when law can advance global health policy goals, and its impact on global power imbalances.

Intended learning outcomes

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

1. Demonstrate a basic understanding of national and international law, including its sources and implementation in a variety of contexts.
2. Critically assess the role of national and international law in protecting and promoting or negatively affecting health.
3. Compare diverse legal/regulatory frameworks relating to health.
4. Critically discuss the relationship between global health policy issues and diverse legal/regulatory frameworks.

Assessment

This module is assessed by:

• A 2,000 word Assessed Assignment (30%).
• A Time Limited Assessment, consisting of 2 questions, with a word limit of 2,000 words per question (70%).

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.