This unit examines the effect of policies and systems on the societal impact of dementia, and the effective provision of support, services and resources to people with dementia and the people who care for them, including approaches enabling independent living and optimum health. National approaches to dementia care and health system design are compared and contrasted with respect to current and anticipated needs and financial impact. Students study four modules and a choice of applied modules to tailor their learning to particular interests. Assessments are both online for the content modules, and in the form of written assignments enabling the student to relate the course material to their individual professional and/or personal context.This unit of study is part of the Postgraduate Studies in Dementia Program, offered by the University of Tasmania.