This dissertation introduces the `Institutional Life Course Framework,' a novel theoretical lens, to explore health inequalities. Through three empirical chapters, this work examines distinct aspects of health disparities by integrating institutional contexts with life course trajectories. Chapter one addresses health disparities among Latin American immigrants in the U.S., emphasizing the influence of pre-migration exposures from the country of origin. The findings reveal that exposure to higher welfare generosity and democratic contexts in childhood, prior to migration, is correlated with improved health in adulthood, thereby emphasizing the critical role of pre-migration exposures in understanding health disparities among immigrants. In the subsequent chapter, the connection between life course trajectories in work and family dimensions and women's mental health in later life is explored, with a focus on the moderating role of gendered welfare state policies across European countries. The results indicate that life course differentiation in work and family domains can adversely impact mental health, especially for consistently employed women. The study further emphasizes the importance of welfare state configurations in understanding these effects. Chapter three delves into the retirement patterns of Latin American immigrants in the U.S. between ages 60 to 70 and their health implications. Using sequence analysis, seven retirement patterns and their associated health outcomes are identified, emphasizing the role of intersectionality in shaping retirement decisions and subsequent health experiences. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and inclusive policies promoting health equity and social justice in later life. In conclusion, while the dissertation presents specific contexts like Latin American immigrants and women's life courses, the Institutional Life Course Framework's versatility offers opportunities for studying health disparities across diverse populations. One such potential application includes understanding the health inequalities within the LGBT community, with emphasis on policy shifts and individual life courses. Through this dissertation, the aim is not only to uncover the complexities of health inequalities but also to lay the groundwork for interventions and informed policy decisions.