Global Health Security

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Juris Doctor, Undergraduate

This course analyzes the intersection of national security and biological threats, with particular emphasis on public health emergency preparedness and response. Topics covered include the spectrum of biological threats; global health security policy at the international, regional, national and local level; biodefense; and the role of the scientific community in preparedness and disaster response. Particular attention is paid to questions of infrastructure, with the emphasis on the federal government, and international legal frameworks. The course covers a variety of threat themes, including deliberate biological events, naturally occurring infectious diseases, natural disasters, and the associated preparedness and response policy issues. This course will challenge students to read and interpret health security-related agreements, negotiate a position, and assess the policy context while trying to advance a health agenda.