COH 11: Introduction to Community Health Services

COH 11: Introduction to Community Health Services

KINGSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Course Syllabus

Course Description Welcome to COH 11: Introduction to Community Health Services. This course introduces the principles, concepts, and practices of community health. Students will explore how health is influenced by social, economic, environmental, and cultural factors within communities. The course examines health promotion, disease prevention, health equity, and the role of community organizations in improving population health outcomes.

No prior experience in public or community health is required. Students are encouraged to engage actively in discussions, reflections, and course activities.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Define key concepts in community and public health.
  2. Explain how social determinants influence health outcomes.
  3. Identify factors contributing to health disparities and inequities.
  4. Describe strategies used to promote health and prevent disease.
  5. Analyze the role of community organizations and health services.
  6. Apply community health concepts to real-world health issues.
  7. Demonstrate critical thinking through reflection and discussion.
Required Participation Students are expected to:
  • Attend all classes
  • Participate respectfully in discussions and group activities.
  • Complete all assigned readings and coursework.
  • Submit assignments by established deadlines.
  • Check email and Google Classroom regularly for announcements.
Course Expectations To be successful in this course, students should:
  • Arrive prepared for class discussions.
  • Engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives.
  • Maintain academic integrity in all assignments.
  • Communicate promptly regarding questions or concerns.
  • Demonstrate professionalism in online interactions.
Grading Breakdown
Participation & Attendance 25%
Assignments 50%
Final Reflection/Assignment/Presentation 25%
Total: 100%  
Course Schedule

Week 1 – Introduction to Community Health

  • Course overview
  • What is community health?
  • Introduction to public health concepts

Week 2 – Social Determinants of Health

  • Income, education, housing, and environment
  • Community influences on health

Week 3 – Health Equity and Health Disparities

  • Understanding inequities
  • Barriers to health access

Week 4 – Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

  • Prevention strategies
  • Community wellness programs

Week 5 – Community Health Organizations

  • Local and national health agencies
  • Community partnerships

Week 6 – Environmental and Behavioral Health

  • Environmental influences
  • Healthy lifestyle behaviors

Week 7 – Community Health Assessment

  • Identifying community needs
  • Data and health indicators

Week 8 – Community Health Project Presentations

  • Student presentations
  • Peer feedback

Week 9 – Course Review and Final Reflection

  • Key concepts review
  • Final reflections and course wrap-up Communication Policy Students are encouraged to contact the instructor with questions regarding course content, assignments, or participation.
Academic Expectations

Students are expected to complete their own work and appropriately acknowledge sources when applicable.  Academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, may result in disciplinary action according to institutional policies.

Accessibility and Support

Students requiring accommodation or additional support are encouraged to contact the professor as early as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Welcome Message

Community health affects every aspect of our daily lives. Throughout this course, we will explore how communities shape health outcomes and how individuals and organizations work together to improve well-being for all. Your experiences and perspectives are valuable, and I look forward to learning with you this semester.

Welcome to COH 11: Introduction to Community Health Services!