MPH Public Health (Nutrition)

Program Overview

The MPH Nutrition program at UCD aims to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to improve population health through the application of nutrition science and public health principles. By integrating epidemiology, nutrition, and health promotion, graduates are prepared for careers in public health agencies, research institutions, and healthcare settings, addressing the complex relationship between diet and disease. The program values multi-disciplinary learning and active engagement to foster critical thinking and collaboration among students.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MPH Nutrition program at UCD is designed to provide multi-disciplinary training and development in Public Health Nutrition. It emphasizes the application of food and nutrition knowledge, policy, and research to improve population health. The program aims to equip students with:

• Knowledge of factors influencing health status: This includes understanding the complex interplay of social, economic, environmental, and behavioral factors that impact health.
• Epidemiological skills: Students will develop proficiency in study design and analysis, enabling them to conduct and interpret research on public health issues.
The program is suitable for health and nutrition professionals seeking to advance their knowledge of the relationship between diet and disease. It covers a wide range of topics, including:
• Obesity and associated chronic diseases: Understanding the role of nutrition in the development and management of obesity and related conditions.
• Micro and macro nutritional deficiencies: Addressing the prevalence and impact of nutrient deficiencies on population health.
• Life stage nutrition: Tailoring nutritional interventions to meet the specific needs of different life stages, such as pregnancy, infancy, childhood, and older adulthood.

Outline:

The MPH Nutrition program is structured into four six-week blocks, each containing core and optional modules. However, the program covers the following core disciplines:

• Disease epidemiology: Understanding the patterns and causes of disease in populations.
• Nutrition epidemiology: Investigating the relationship between diet and health outcomes.
• Diet and disease: Exploring the role of nutrition in the prevention and management of various diseases.
• Behavioral change: Developing strategies to promote healthy behaviors related to diet and lifestyle.
• Research methods and statistics: Acquiring the skills necessary to conduct and analyze public health research.
• Health promotion: Designing and implementing programs to improve population health.
• Environmental health: Understanding the impact of environmental factors on health and nutrition.
• Health economics: Analyzing the costs and benefits of public health interventions.
• Sociology and health policy: Examining the social and policy determinants of health.

Assessment:

Assessment in the MPH Nutrition program is conducted through a combination of continuous assessment and end-of-semester examinations. Assessment methods include:

• Oral presentations: Presenting research findings and engaging in discussions.
• Data analysis: Applying statistical methods to analyze public health data.
• Written examinations: Assessing knowledge and comprehension of course material.

Teaching:

The program emphasizes a multi-disciplinary learning environment, incorporating various teaching methods:

• Tutorials: Providing interactive sessions for in-depth discussion and problem-solving.
• Seminars: Engaging in presentations and discussions on current topics in public health nutrition.
• Group work: Collaborating with peers on projects and assignments.

Careers:

The MPH Nutrition program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the public health sector. Graduates are equipped to work in:

• Public health agencies: Contributing to the development and implementation of public health policies and programs.
• Research institutions: Conducting research on nutrition and health outcomes.
• Non-profit organizations: Advocating for improved nutrition and health policies.
• Healthcare settings: Providing nutrition counseling and education to individuals and communities.

Other:

The program values active, motivated, and autonomous learners. The learning environment is multi-disciplinary, encouraging students to engage in discussions and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds.

MPH Public Health (Nutrition) (X299) Full Time EU fee per year - € 10200 nonEU fee per year - € 22450 MPH Public Health (Nutrition) (X300) Part Time nonEU fee per year - € 14550 EU fee per year - € 4940