Harm Reduction as Public Health

This course explores harm reduction as a public health framework and social movement rooted in dignity, justice, and care for people who use drugs (PWUD). Co-designed with local harm reduction professionals, it centers lived experience while providing students with historical, political, and practical foundations. Core topics include harm reduction philosophy and principles; drug criminalization, stigma, and racialized policy; and current drug trends. Students will examine U.S. and global harm reduction policies and programs, service models, emerging technologies, and the contributions of the harm reduction workforce. Weekly spotlights address communities disproportionately affected by drug-related harms, including people of color, gender-diverse individuals, and people experiencing housing instability. Through case studies, guest speakers, and community-based learning, students will develop an evidence-informed, community-driven harm reduction intervention tailored to a specific population and setting.