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410.609.79
The Wellness Industry and Public Health: Partners Or Adversaries in Health Promotion?

Location
Internet
Term
Summer Institute
Department
Health, Behavior and Society
Credit(s)
1
Academic Year
2025 - 2026
Instruction Method
Synchronous Online
Start Date
Friday, June 20, 2025
End Date
Friday, June 20, 2025
Class Time(s)
Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
No
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Contact Name
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Prerequisite

none

Description
What exactly is the wellness industry and which subindustries are considered to be part of this umbrella? What does the wellness industry do well in terms of health promotion? Are there opportunities for public health practitioners and researchers to learn from wellness industry strategies? Are there opportunities for public health evidence and research to better inform current wellness initiatives?
Introduces students to the contemporary wellness industry in the US (including fitness and yoga) and explores the relevance of this industry for public health promotion. Describes core industry strategies for behavior change, and opportunities for public health evidence and research to inform industry practice. Content includes consideration of social media and the application of effective industry communication and motivation strategies for health promotion broadly defined.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  1. 1. Describe the nature of the wellness industry in contemporary US context
  2. 2. Outline how the wellness industry's activities are relevant for attaining public health goals
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
  • 50% Participation
  • 50% Written Assignment(s)
Enrollment Restriction
none