Human Health and Global Environmental Change

About PH278x

One of the greatest challenges of our time is to address global environmental changes, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, that may harm the health of billions of people worldwide. This class will examine these changes, their causes, as well as their health consequences, and engage students in thinking about their solutions. Those who earn a passing grade will get a certificate of mastery from HarvardX.

Aaron Bernstein

Aaron Bernstein, M.D., M.P.H., is the Associate Director of the Center for Health and the Global Environment at the Harvard School of Public Health and a pediatric hospitalist at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Bernstein’s work examines the human health effects of global environmental changes, such as climate change and the loss of biodiversity, with the aim of promoting a deeper understanding of these subjects among students, educators, policy makers, and the public.

Jack Spengler

John (Jack) D. Spengler, Ph.D. is the Director of the Center for Health and the Global Environment at the Harvard School of Public Health as well as the Akira Yamaguchi Professor of Environmental Health and Human Habitation. He has conducted research in the areas of personal monitoring, air pollution health effects, aerosol characterization, indoor air pollution and air pollution meteorology. In addition to his academic and research activities, Dr. Spengler has been active in professional education workshops, distance learning and short courses. He also serves as an advisor to several global organizations, including the World Health Organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to take the course?

Nothing! The course is free.

Does the course have any prerequisites?

High school biology and chemistry will be helpful but are not essential. Otherwise the class is geared to a general audience.

Do I need any other materials to take the course?

No. As long as you have a computer to access the website, you are ready to take the course.

Do I need to watch the lectures at a specific time?

No. You can watch the lectures at your leisure.

Will the text of the lectures be available?

Yes. The lectures will have transcripts synced to the videos.

Is there a textbook for this course?

There is no required textbook, but it is recommended to read Sustaining Life (click here for a digital rental) as some of the course lectures will refer to this text.

Will certificates be awarded?

Yes. Online learners who achieve a passing grade of 60% or more in this course can earn a certificate of mastery. These certificates will indicate you have successfully completed the course, but will not include a specific grade. Certificates will be issued by edX under the name of HarvardX.

If you have any questions about edX generally, please see the edX FAQ.