The course is intended to introduce central socioeconomic theories and methods from a multidisciplinary perspective. The topic of health is integrally treated from the perspective of different socioeconomic disciplines (such as sociology, economics, and demography). 

The following content areas will be covered:

• Health indicators
• Socioeconomic grading in health
• Health systems
• Health behaviors
• Health equity

The focus is on the application of these theories and methods. The course will include a progressive introduction to the statistical software for statistical analysis Stata, which the students will use to analyze survey data throughout the semester. In addition, the students will work in groups to develop and analyze their own research question under the guidance of the lecturers.

After completing this course, students should be able to:

• Understand, classify and evaluate central socioeconomic theories and methods
• Recognize the multi-dimensionality of problem situations in health research
• Adapt socioeconomic theories and methods to specific fields of application and to apply them to specific socioeconomic questions
• Examine and develop integrative research designs

This course also supports the following skills:

• Analyze survey data using various Stata commands
• Apply relevant research designs to identify causal effects
• Work in a team environment and give oral presentations

This being a ‘course with continuous assessment (PI)’, the university requires students to attend at least 80% of the time of the scheduled course units for completing the course successfully. Ideally you attend all units fully. If you are unable to fully attend a unit, please let the lecturer(s) know in advance. In case online units are scheduled, the same attendance requirements apply.

• Interactive lectures with a critical reflection of relevant literature on theories and methods
• Computer-based exercises using survey data
• Group discussions to develop an integrative research design
• Student presentations

Assessment Components (relative weights in the final grade)

• Mid-term exam (40%)
• Group presentation of research idea (10%)
• Final group presentation (30%)
• Participation (20%)

Grades (point ranges)

• 1: Excellent (90-100 points)
• 2: Good (80-89 points)
• 3: Satisfactory (65-79 points)
• 4: Sufficient (50-64 points)
• 5: Fail (0-49 points)

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