International Women’s Health and Human Rights Course Syllabus

Overview: This course explores the intersection of women's health and human rights across global contexts. Over approximately 10 weeks with a total time commitment of 30–40 hours, learners will examine critical health challenges, human rights frameworks, and advocacy strategies. Through case studies, ethical discussions, and policy analysis, participants will gain foundational knowledge to understand and address gender inequities in global health. Designed for beginners, the course is self-paced and accessible to anyone interested in social justice, public health, or human rights.

Module 1: Introduction to Women’s Health & Human Rights

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Explore the scope of women’s health globally
• Understand the link between gender, health, and human rights
• Identify key global health challenges for women
• Examine the social determinants of women's health

Module 2: Violence Against Women & Reproductive Rights

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Examine the impact of gender-based violence on physical and mental health
• Learn about reproductive rights and bodily autonomy
• Understand barriers to access contraception and safe abortion care
• Discuss the ethical and legal dimensions of reproductive health

Module 3: HIV/AIDS and Women’s Vulnerability

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Understand the unique vulnerabilities women face with HIV/AIDS
• Analyze how social stigma and gender inequality affect transmission and care
• Explore disparities in access to treatment and prevention
• Review successful intervention models and policy responses

Module 4: Empowerment and Policy Change

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Discover how advocacy improves women’s health rights globally
• Study policy-making processes and legal reforms
• Learn about community mobilization and grassroots activism
• Understand the role of international collaboration in health equity

Module 5: Capstone Reflections & Global Perspectives

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Analyze case studies from different countries
• Reflect on course themes in public health, policy, and advocacy
• Examine cultural factors and legal barriers to healthcare access
• Develop ethical reasoning in global health contexts

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Develop a personal or community-based action plan
• Apply course concepts to real-world health equity challenges
• Present strategies to promote women’s health and rights

Prerequisites

• Interest in global health, human rights, or social justice
• No prior technical health knowledge required
• Basic understanding of social issues and gender equity helpful

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Understand the interconnection between women’s health and human rights
• Analyze global health disparities affecting women
• Apply international human rights frameworks to health issues
• Engage in ethical discussions on reproductive rights and gender-based violence
• Design advocacy strategies to support gender equity in healthcare