Public Health Law

Graduate / Professional

This course surveys public health law in the United States and considers the role that law can and should play in preserving population health and promoting health equity. Students also consider the conflicts and problems that emerge when law is used for those endeavors, as well as the legal rights and principles that limit government’s public health powers. To understand the legal foundations of public health, students study the sources and nature of government power and its limitations. The class examines the U.S. Constitution, federal, state and local laws, and administrative law. Case studies demonstrate the governmental tools that can shape and improve public health, as well as relevant challenges and legal obstacles. Prerequisite: core EMPH health policy course EMPH 538 . W 9pm-10pm