Theory of knowledge and ethics in Public Health Sciences
This course introduces the theory of knowledge and the fundamental principles of ethics as applied in public health and public health research. Among other topics, the course will cover the relationships between science, policy and practice and pay attention to justice and fairness in public health. The course will also include reviews and discussions on current issues in public health ethics.
After the course, you will be familiar with main theories and concepts pertaining to research and professional ethics and you will be able to relate them to public health practice and research.
Course information
Course code
PH020F1
Course credits
4.5
Course period
October 15 - November 3, 2026
Course syllabus
Syllabus PH020F1, valid from Autumn 2026
Kursplan PH020F1, giltig fr.o.m. HT2026
Course manager
Course schedule
- Wednesday 14 October, 13.30–14.30, room 14, House 2, Floor 2, Albano: PHS seminar on solidarity and health policy with Greg Bognar
- Thursday 15 October, 13.00–15.30, room Brunnsviken, Dept PHS: Introduction with Ilona Grünberger
- Tuesday 20 October, 13.00-–15.30, room Haga, Dept PHS: Public health ethics session with student seminar (compulsory)
- Friday 23 October, 13.00–15.30, room Brunnsviken, Dept PHS: Research ethics with Ilona Grünberger
- Tuesday 27 October, 13.00–15.30, hybrid or Zoom: Publication ethics and AI in research with Zakir Hossin
- Thursday 29 October, 13.00–15.30, hybrid or Zoom: Research ethics and internationalization with Corinna Walsh
- Tuesday 3 November, 13.00–15.30, room Haga, Dept PHS: Public health research ethics with student seminar (compulsory)
- Wednesday 4 November, 13.00–15.30, room Brunnsviken, Dept PHS: Philosophy and public health ethics with Greg Bognar (part of examination)
Literature list
Please note that the literature list may change until two months before the course starts.
Literature list PH020F1, valid from Autumn 2026
Studying with a disability
If you have a long-term disability, you can apply for disability study support during your studies. The aim is to give you the opportunity to study on equal terms.
Admission
If you are interested in taking the course, please send an email to our study administrator at phd.admin.publichealth@su.se . We welcome doctoral students from any disciplinary background who have interest in public health and public health ethics.
Application deadline: three months prior to course start.
Contact
Last updated: 2026-08-31
Source: Department of Public Health Sciences