Year
2019
Units
4.5
Contact
5 x 2-hour lectures per semester
11 x 2-hour tutorials per semester
Prerequisites
% = any matching topic, eg BIOL1% includes BIOL1101, BIOL1102 etc
1 Admission into MND-Master of Nutrition and Dietetics
1a Admission into MPH%
1b Admission into MHID-Master of Health and International Development
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b))
Assumed knowledge
Students will be expected to have knowledge of social and ecological determinants of food choices.
Assessment
Assignments;
Topic description
This topic develops students' understanding of public health and community nutrition, within the context of health promotion practice. Public health nutrition applies a population-level perspective to preventing diet-related health problems, and promoting healthy eating, while community nutrition takes a local-level perspective, defined by a smaller geographical area. Both public health and community nutrition are informed by theoretical frameworks of primary health care and health promotion, which recognise the social and environmental determinants of health and illness. Students will be introduced to health and nutrition policies which guide public health and nutrition interventions. They will develop knowledge and skills in systematic nutrition program development, encompassing needs assessment, program planning, implementation and evaluation. Programs will be based on principles of evidence-based practice, cultural safety, ethical interventions, multi-disciplinary and inter-sectoral practice.
Educational aims
This topic aims to provide students with in-depth knowledge for public health and community nutrition practice, including the theoretical and policy context for public health. Students will develop skills for nutrition program planning based on sound intelligence, clear objectives, appropriate evaluation and ethical considerations.
Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge in the following areas: public health and community nutrition; health promotion; and, nutrition and health policies.

  • Critically analyse and synthesise data and theories to develop a community nutrition program including sound intelligence, clear objectives and appropriate evaluation.

  • Apply principles of cultural safety and ethical practice to nutrition program development.

  • Critically discuss collaborative approaches to nutrition program development.