Nutrition, B.S.Nutr./M.S. - Coordinated Program in Dietetics (5-Year)
Program Description
The Coordinated Program/Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics Practice is a 5-year Bachelor’s to Master’s program that combines the graduate education and supervised practice experience required for eligibility to become a practicing Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RD or RDN). Coursework provides a comprehensive foundation for applied supervised practice that is integrated into the final two years of the program, eliminating the need for a separate dietetic internship. A minimum of 1000 hours of supervised practice are provided in acute, ambulatory, and/or long-term care facilities, community health agencies, and foodservice operations. With an urban health -focus, this program addresses hunger, policy, advocacy, communication, health promotion, and prevention and treatment of disease through nutrition in diverse communities. Immediately upon graduation, students will become eligible to take the credentialing exam for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists and seek state licensure as Licensed Dietitian Nutritionists. RDN’s are employed as clinicians and managers in hospitals, long term care facilities, specialty clinics, grocery stores, schools, corporate wellness, private practices, and community agencies.
Details can be found in the Coordinated Program Handbook.
Program Mission
Consistent with Lasallian values, the mission of the Master’s Coordinated Program is to educate and empower students to engage in evidence-based practice in Nutrition and Dietetics with a commitment to excellence in practice, advocacy, life-long learning, and scholarship. The program combines a liberal arts education with scientific, theoretical, and practical coursework for preparation of entry-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs), preparing graduates to promote health and wellness in individuals, serve diverse and disadvantaged populations, and to assume leadership roles in their field.
Accreditation
La Salle University’s Didactic Program in Nutrition and Coordinated Program in Dietetics are accredited by:
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
120 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
800.877.1600, x5400
Why Take This Major?
The 5-year Bachelor's to Master's Coordinated Program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) and culminates in a B.S. in Nutrition and M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics Practice. As of January, 2024 a master's degree will be required for all graduates wishing to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. Our accelerated program provides the bachelor's, master's and supervised practice experience in just 5 years for incoming freshman. It is the only one of its kind in Philadelphia and one of only about 30 similar programs in the U.S.
Program Requirements
Students must have successfully completed or be enrolled in all of the required courses for the 5-year program up through and including the Spring Semester of Junior Year. Students must have a GPA >/= 3.2 including courses transferred in for the major, earned a B or above in NUTR 310 Management in Nutrition and Dietetics, NUTR 320 Quantity Food Preparation and Management, NUTR 341 Medical Nutrition Therapy I, NUTR 342 Medical Nutrition Therapy II, and any 400 level NUTR courses, and have a C or better in all science and nutrition courses. High-achieving students offered direct admission to the 5-year program as freshmen must meet these standards in order to remain in the program. Students not meeting the required GPA and course grade requirements will earn a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition if all requirements are met, but will not progress to the Master’s Program.
Degree Earned
B.S.Nutr., M.S.
Required for Graduation
- Courses
- Major: B.S. Nutr: 31 courses
- Total: B.S. Nutr: 41, M.S.: 10 courses
- Credits
- Major: B.S. Nutr: 106
- Total: B.S. Nutr: 127, M.S.: 45 credits
- GPA
- Major: B.S.Nutr.: 3.2, M.S.: 3.2
- Cumulative: B.S.Nutr: 3.2, M.S.: 3.2
Program Goals
Goal 1: Prepare graduates to become competent entry-level dietetic practitioners through successful completion of the Coordinated Program/Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics Practice.
Objectives:
- The program’s one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80% .
- Greater than 90% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
- At least 80% percent of program students complete program/degree requirements within 3 years (150% of the program length)
- 90% or more of program graduates who seek employment in dietetics will be employed within twelve months of program completion.
- Greater than 90% of program graduates responding to alumni surveys will report “agree or strongly agree” regarding preparation for entry-level job responsibilities.
- When surveyed, over 80% of employers will agree or strongly agree that graduates are adequately prepared for entry level positions.
Goal 2: Prepare graduates who respond to changing food, nutrition, and health care needs of individuals, groups, and diverse communities.
Objectives:
- Greater than 80% of graduates responding to alumni survey will agree or strongly agree that the Coordinated Program prepared them to incorporate current evidence (i.e. from published guidelines and research) into practice.
- On exit survey, greater than 90% of graduates will agree or strongly agree that the Coordinated Program increased their cultural competence in working with individuals and groups in diverse communities.
- On exit survey, greater than 90% of graduates will agree or strongly agree on that the Coordinated Program helped them to develop a deeper awareness of policy and advocacy as it impacts the nutrition and dietetics profession.
- Greater than 80% of graduates responding to alumni survey will agree or strongly agree that knowledge and skills gained through the Coordinated Program have enabled them to have a positive impact on others.
- Greater than 80% of graduates responding to alumni survey will agree or strongly agree that they were prepared for the current Commission on Dietetic Registration professional development portfolio process.
- Greater than 80% of graduates on alumni survey will agree or strongly agree that they were overall satisfied with the Coordinated Program.
Student Learning Outcomes
At the completion of this program the student will be able to:
- Utilize knowledge from foundational sciences as a basis for understanding the role of food and nutrients in health and disease.
- Integrate scientific information, research, and critical thinking into evidence- based practice.
- Demonstrate professionalism and ethical behavior in all areas of practice.
- Engage in advocacy on issues that affect public health and nutrition policy.
- Establish a basis for lifelong learning and interprofessional collaboration.
- Utilize the Nutrition Care Process to deliver state-of-the-art, safe and effective nutrition care.
- Provide culturally competent nutrition services for diverse individuals and communities using a variety of communication strategies.
- Facilitate health behavior change using nutrition counseling techniques with patients and clients.
- Apply basic principles of entrepreneurship to Dietetics practice.
- Implement strategies for food access, procurement, preparation, and safety that are relevant for the culture, age, literacy level, and socio-economic status of clients and groups.
- Perform food system management and leadership functions that consider sustainability in business, healthcare, community, and institutional arenas.
Progress Chart
Level One - Core Courses
12 courses and 2 modules required
Major Requirements
Major requirements include 4 Level Two ILO requirements, fulfilled through the major.
Students in this major must complete B.S. Nutr: 41, M.S.: 10 courses in total in order to graduate. B.S. Nutr: 31 courses will be from this major program.
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Level One - Core Courses | ||
Universal Required Courses | ||
Students must complete the following 4 courses. | ||
ILO 8.1: Written Communication | ||
ENG 110 | College Writing I: Persuasion | 3 |
ILO 5.1: Information Literacy | ||
ENG 210 | College Writing II: Research | 3 |
ILO 1.1: Understanding Diverse Perspectives | ||
FYS 130 | First-Year Academic Seminar 1 | 3 |
ILO 2.1: Reflective Thinking and Valuing | ||
REL 100 | Religion Matters | 3 |
Elective Core Courses | ||
Students must complete 1 course in each of the following 4 ILOs. | ||
ILO 3.1a: Scientific Reasoning | ||
CHM 161 | Chemistry of The Life Sciences | 4 |
ILO 3.1b: Quantitative Reasoning | ||
HSC 217 | Statistics for Health Science Profs | 3 |
ILO 6.1: Technological Competency | ||
CSC 154 | Healthcare Informatics | 3 |
ILO 8.1a/12.1: Oral Communication/Collaborative Engagement | ||
COM 150 | Presentation Skills | 3 |
Distinct Discipline Core Courses | ||
Students must complete 1 course in each of the following 4 ILOs. Each course must be from a different discipline. (A "discipline" is represented by the 3- or 4-letter prefix attached to each course.) | ||
ILO 4.1: Critical Analysis and Reasoning | ||
POL 151 | Principles Of American Government | 3 |
or ECN 150 | Introductory Macroeconomics: The U.S. in the Global Economy I | |
ILO 9.1: Creative and Artistic Expression | ||
Choose course within ILO | ||
ILO 10.1: Ethical Understanding and Reasoning | ||
Choose course within ILO | ||
ILO 11.1: Cultural and Global Awareness and Sensitivity | ||
Choose course within ILO | ||
Universal Required Modules | ||
Students must complete the following 2 non-credit modules. 2 | ||
ILO 7.1a | ||
Health Literacy Module | ||
ILO 7.1b | ||
Financial Literacy Module | ||
Major Requirements | ||
Level Two | ||
Students must complete 1 course/learning experience in each of the 4 commitments. | ||
ILO 2.2: Broader Identity (Capstone Course/Experience) | ||
NUTR 440 | Capstone in Nutrition (ILO 2.2) | 3 |
Select one ILO from 3.2a, 3.2b, 4.2, 5.2, 6.2, 7.2a, or 7.2b: Expanded Literacies | ||
NUTR 341 | Medical Nutrition Therapy I (ILO 7.2a) | 4 |
or NUTR 342 | Medical Nutrition Therapy II | |
ILO 8.2b: Effective Expression (Writing-Intensive Course) | ||
NUTR 420 | Nutrition Education and Counseling (ILO 8.2b) | 3 |
Select one ILO from 10.2, 11.2, or 12.2: Active Responsibility | ||
NUTR 441 | Food and Culture (ILO 11.2) | 3 |
All Other Required Courses | ||
Major Courses | ||
NUTR 165 | Principles of Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 200 | Life Cycle Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 230 | Food Science | 4 |
NUTR 300 | Community Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 310 | Management in Nutrition and Dietetics | 3 |
NUTR 320 | Quantity Food Preparation and Management | 3 |
NUTR 340 | Professional Practice in Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 341 | Medical Nutrition Therapy I | 4 |
NUTR 342 | Medical Nutrition Therapy II | 4 |
PHLT 408 | Research Methods for Public Health | 3 |
PHLT 489 | Race, Ethnicity, And Public Health | 3 |
NUTR 420 | Nutrition Education and Counseling | 3 |
NUTR 440 | Capstone in Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 441 | Food and Culture | 3 |
NUTR 450 | Sustainable Food Systems and Food Justice | 3 |
NUTR 510 | Nutrition Communication | 3 |
NUTR 512 | Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism | 3 |
NUTR 514 | Cases in Clinical Nutrition | 3 |
PHLT 635 | Health Policy | 3 |
NUTR 601 | Practicum in Community Nutrition I | 6 |
NUTR 602 | Practicum in Community Nutrition II | 6 |
NUTR 605 | Practicum in Foodservice Management | 6 |
NUTR 608 | Practicum in Clinical Nutrition I | 6 |
NUTR 609 | Practicum in Clinical Nutrition II | 6 |
NUTR 612 | Seminar in Dietetics Practice | 3 |
Supporting Courses | ||
BIO 161 | Anatomy and Physiology | 4 |
BIO 162 | Anatomy and Physiology | 4 |
BIO 163 | Clinical Microbiology | 4 |
PSY 155 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
CHM 262 | Organic Chemistry for The Life Sciences | 3 |
CHM 263 | Biochemistry for the Life Sciences | 3 |
PHLT 408 | Research Methods for Public Health | 3 |
Free Electives | ||
In addition to the requirements listed above, students must take enough courses to the fulfill graduation credit requirements for their School and major. |
- 1
NOTE. The following students use Level 2 Capstone Experience in Major instead of FYS 130 First-Year Academic Seminar: Honors, BUSCA, Core-to-Core, Transfer, and Non-Traditional/Evening
- 2
The Modules are not required for Transfer Students, Core-to-Core Students, or BUSCA Students. BUSCA students are required to take modules if/when they pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Recommended Course Sequence
First Year | ||
---|---|---|
First Semester | Credits | |
ENG 110 | College Writing I: Persuasion | 3 |
NUTR 165 | Principles of Nutrition | 3 |
BIO 161 | Anatomy and Physiology | 4 |
CSC 154 | Healthcare Informatics | 3 |
REL 100 | Religion Matters | 3 |
Credits | 16 | |
Second Semester | ||
PSY 155 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
CHM 161 | Chemistry of The Life Sciences | 4 |
BIO 162 | Anatomy and Physiology | 4 |
COM 150 | Presentation Skills | 3 |
FYS 130 | First-Year Academic Seminar | 3 |
Credits | 17 | |
Second Year | ||
First Semester | ||
CHM 262 | Organic Chemistry for The Life Sciences | 3 |
NUTR 200 | Life Cycle Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 230 | Food Science | 4 |
ENG 210 | College Writing II: Research | 3 |
POL 151 or ECN 150 |
Principles Of American Government or Introductory Macroeconomics: The U.S. in the Global Economy I |
3 |
Credits | 16 | |
Second Semester | ||
CHM 263 | Biochemistry for the Life Sciences | 3 |
NUTR 300 | Community Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 340 | Professional Practice in Nutrition | 3 |
Choose course within ILO 9, 10, or 11 | 3 | |
BIO 163 | Clinical Microbiology | 4 |
Credits | 16 | |
Third Year | ||
First Semester | ||
NUTR 310 | Management in Nutrition and Dietetics | 3 |
NUTR 341 | Medical Nutrition Therapy I | 4 |
NUTR 420 | Nutrition Education and Counseling | 3 |
NUTR 441 | Food and Culture | 3 |
Choose course within ILO 9, 10, or 11 | 3 | |
Credits | 16 | |
Second Semester | ||
NUTR 320 | Quantity Food Preparation and Management | 3 |
NUTR 342 | Medical Nutrition Therapy II | 4 |
HSC 217 | Statistics for Health Science Profs | 3 |
NUTR 450 | Sustainable Food Systems and Food Justice | 3 |
Choose course within ILO 9, 10, or 11 | 3 | |
Credits | 16 | |
Fourth Year | ||
First Semester | ||
NUTR 601 | Practicum in Community Nutrition I | 6 |
PHLT 408 | Research Methods for Public Health | 3 |
PHLT 489 | Race, Ethnicity, And Public Health | 3 |
NUTR 512 | Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism | 3 |
Credits | 15 | |
Second Semester | ||
NUTR 602 | Practicum in Community Nutrition II | 6 |
NUTR 440 | Capstone in Nutrition | 3 |
NUTR 514 | Cases in Clinical Nutrition | 3 |
PHLT 635 | Health Policy | 3 |
Credits | 15 | |
Third Semester | ||
NUTR 605 | Practicum in Foodservice Management | 6 |
Credits | 6 | |
Fifth Year | ||
First Semester | ||
NUTR 608 | Practicum in Clinical Nutrition I | 6 |
NUTR 510 | Nutrition Communication | 3 |
Credits | 9 | |
Second Semester | ||
NUTR 609 | Practicum in Clinical Nutrition II | 6 |
NUTR 612 | Seminar in Dietetics Practice | 3 |
Credits | 9 | |
Total Credits | 151 |
Course Descriptions
Nutrition
Topics for this course include basic knowledge of food nutrients; functions, interactions, and balance of carbohydrates proteins, lipids, vitamins, minerals, and water in normal human physiology; nutrient deficiency diseases; energy metabolism; nutrition and fitness. It consists of three hours of lecture and is required for all subsequent nutrition courses.
This course examines human nutritional needs and U.S. dietary guidance for health maintenance and disease prevention during infancy, early and middle childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and older adulthood as well as pregnancy and lactation. The course consists of three hours of lecture.
This course examines chemical and physical proprieties of food, principles of food selection, consumer trends, use of established food guides in meal planning, methods and techniques of food preparation, sensory evaluation of food, food safety, and government regulation of food. The course consists of three hours of lecture, and two hours of lab.
This course illustrates the role of nutrition in health promotion and disease prevention through an examination of health and nutrition policy, programs, and population data. Emphasis is placed on the information and skills necessary to solve nutrition problems in local, state, and national communities. The course consists of three hours of lecture.
The course focuses on dietetic management principles including systems theory, leadership, quality management and methodology, cost-effectiveness, human resources, labor law, financial management, budgeting, and marketing. The course consists of three hours of lecture.
The course looks at management systems and procedures used in quantity food production; menu planning; recipe standardization; purchase, receipt, and storage of food and supplies; facility design, equipment, and materials; financial management; and food safety and sanitation. The course consists of three hours of lecture.
The course explores the various roles of nutrition professionals within the broader health-care system including inter-professional collaboration for comprehensive care. The course provides an overview of nutrition careers in clinical, community, foodservice management, and business settings and emphasizes historical, legal, and ethical considerations for professional practice. The course consists of three hours of lecture.
The course focuses on the pathophysiology of nutrition-related disease; normal and therapeutic diets in the prevention and treatment of disease; the Nutrition Care Process: nutrition assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, and evaluation; documentation of nutrition care; and drug-nutrient interactions. Course materials will cover disorders of the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, endocrine, and skeletal systems as well as energy imbalance. The course consists of three hours of lecture and one hour of lab.
This course is a continuation of Medical Nutrition Therapy I that focuses on the pathophysiology of nutrition-related disease; normal and therapeutic diets in the prevention and treatment of disease; the Nutrition Care Process: nutrition assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, and evaluation; documentation of nutrition care; and drug-nutrient interactions. Course materials will cover disorders of the gastrointestinal, hepatic, and renal systems; food allergy and intolerance; genetics in nutrition; enteral and parenteral nutrition support. The course consists of three hours of lecture and one hour of lab.
This course focuses on communication strategies for effective health behavior change. Topics include food behavior; verbal and non-verbal communication; interviewing skills; cultural competency; health literacy; counseling theories and the counseling process; learning theories and educational principles; and educational methods and tools. Three hours of lecture.
Emphasizes the integration of nutrition knowledge and the interpretation and application of nutrition-oriented research including evidence-based practice. Students identify a research question or hypothesis, design a research plan, collect and analyze data, and write a research paper utilizing peer-reviewed scientific literature and other appropriate sources. Students also create and orally present a poster representing their work. Three hours of lecture.
This course examines the cultural and culinary traditions that shape an individual's eating habits, including the activities by which people produce, prepare, present, and consume food. Aspects of food culture including religion, health beliefs, geographic and historical/traditional factors in global cultures and within regions of the United States are explored. The course focuses on the development of cultural competency and cultural humility in nutrition practice. Three hours of lecture.
Encompasses current issues involving food agriculture, activities, people and resources involved in getting food from field to plate. Current food practices and marketing are investigated in terms of the cost/benefit to the individual, and society. Three hours of lecture.
This course addresses the nutrition needs of active people and athletes. Course topics include carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamin, mineral, and water requirements for fitness and sport. Body weight and composition, weight maintenance, as well as proper weight gains and loss will be discussed.
Students experience field work under the supervision of a nutrition professional and faculty member. Permission of the Director is required. Hours to be arranged with five hours minimum field work per week (minimum of 50 hours per semester) required.
The course provides an in-depth examination of a current topic in the field of nutrition. Three hours of lecture.
The course provides an in-depth examination of a current topic in the field of nutrition. Three hours of lecture.
The course provides an in-depth examination of a current topic in the field of nutrition. Three hours of lecture.
The course provides an in-depth examination of a current topic in the field of nutrition. Three hours of lecture.
This course will help prepare the student to take the credentialing examination to become a Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR). Roles and responsibilities of the NDTR as well as career paths are explored.
The course provides an in-depth examination of a current topic in the field of nutrition. Three hours of lecture.
Individual laboratory or theoretical work under supervision of a faculty
member. Permission of the Director required. Hours to be arranged.
This course focuses on the development of effective written and oral communication skills for the nutrition professional. Students will learn how to tailor communication to a variety of audiences using a wide range of communication platforms. Special focus is placed on designing materials that are culturally and age appropriate, and meet the literacy level of the audience.
This course will include application of basic sciences to the science of Nutrition, with emphasis on macronutrients and micronutrients in health and disease. Students will apply in-depth knowledge of the digestion, absorption, and metabolism of nutrients in clinical scenarios.
This course provides an application of the Nutrition Care Process to a variety of disease states. Students will gain experience with assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, and evaluation of nutrition problems using a case based and simulation approach. Students will gain competence in the application of medical terminology and standardized language for the Nutrition Care Process.
This graduate course provides students with academic and experiential applications of nutritional principles to populations and communities, with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. Students will assess the health and nutritional needs of individuals and groups in community settings. They will expand critical thinking skills beyond the practice setting and apply their knowledge to broader policy initiatives impacting the nutritional health of our population. Under the supervision of a Registered Dietitian, students will participate in nutrition counseling and educational programs in their field placements with local community nutrition organizations. Coursework may include lecture, group discussion, journaling, simulation, assigned readings, research papers, project work, and practical field experiences. The course consists of two hours of lecture, and eight to twelve hours of practicum.
Prerequisite (s): Formal admission to the Program.
This graduate course provides students with academic and experiential applications of nutritional principles to populations and communities, with a continued emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. Students will assess the health and nutritional needs of individuals and groups in community settings. They will continue to expand critical thinking skills beyond the practice setting and apply their knowledge to broader policy initiatives impacting the nutritional health of our population. Under the supervision of a Registered Dietitian, students will participate in nutrition counseling and educational programs in their field placements with local community nutrition organizations. Coursework may include lecture, group discussion, presentations, journaling, simulation, assigned readings, project work, and practical field experiences. The course consists of two hours of lecture, and eight to twelve hours of practicum.
Prerequisite (s): Formal admission to the Program; NUTR 601 with a B or above.
This graduate course provides practical experience in quantity food planning, preparation, and management in hospitals, nursing homes, school food service, and commercial cafeterias. Students will participate in the daily operations and management functions of food service systems, including sanitation, food safety, equipment selection and operation, food purchasing, receiving and storage, personnel and fiscal management, and quality control. The course will consist of lecture, assigned readings, group discussion, journaling, and project management with an average of 3--4 hours per week of classroom experiences and up to 32 hours per week of practicum for 10 weeks.
This graduate course covers the application of nutrition knowledge and the Nutrition Care Process in the solution of problems related to disease. Under the supervision of a Registered Dietitian, students assess nutritional status (including medical record review, Nutrition Focused Physical Exams, patient and family interviews, and input from other team members), identify nutritional needs, formulate nutrition diagnoses, and develop care plans for individuals in acute, ambulatory, and/or long-term care settings. Emphasis is placed on the development of assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and monitoring/evaluation skills, culminating in students’ ability to assume nutritional care responsibilities for adults with medical needs (e.g. cardiovascular, metabolic syndrome, neurologic, nutrition support, metabolic stress, and malnutrition). The course consists of assigned readings, discussions, problem-based learning, simulations, and practical experiences in hospitals, medical centers, and/or long-term care facilities. It consists of two hours of lecture, 24 hours per week of practicum.
This graduate course covers the application of nutrition knowledge in the solution of problems related to disease. Under the supervision of a Registered Dietitian, students utilize the Nutrition Care Process in the care of assigned patients in acute, ambulatory, and/or long-term care settings. Continued emphasis is placed on the development of assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and monitoring/evaluation skills, culminating in students' ability to assume nutritional care responsibilities for adults and children with medical needs (e.g. inborn errors of metabolism, eating disorders, gastrointestinal, endocrine, hepatic, pancreatic, oncology, obesity, integrative and functional nutrition). The course consists of assigned readings, discussions, problem-based learning, simulations, and practical experiences in hospitals, medical centers, and/or long-term care facilities. Two hours of lecture, 24 hours of practicum.
This graduate capstone course is a culminating experience for students that includes reflection and self-assessment on ACEND competencies along with review and assimilation of knowledge, attitudes, and skills gained throughout their graduate experience. The course will provide
a final experience in which students demonstrate critical thinking and mastery of graduate study content through analysis of essential professional practice domains and literature. This capstone course serves as a bridge from graduate student to competent, entry-level professional in all areas of the field of dietetics.
Public Health
This course provides a basic introduction to public health concepts and practice by examining the philosophy, purpose, history, organization, functions, tools, activities, and the results of public health practice at the national, state, and local levels. Healthy People 2020 is reviewed. The impact of the Affordable Care Act on health disparities in urban communities is discussed. The function of the Bureau of Health Professions of the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) is studied. The course aims to stimulate interactions among students around important problems and issues facing the health of the nation and the world.
This course explores world health issues and policies by examining selected threats to global health. Students ascertain the global interconnectedness of humanity and investigate the effect of economic globalization on health issues. Global warming, cross border pollution, the spread of infectious diseases, and international crime are considered. Current health threats, global health indicators, ethical considerations of global initiatives, and solutions are evaluated.
This course allows students to explore and begin to understand how complex and multifaceted public health nutrition programs enhance the health and nutrition of the U.S. population through education, emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, integrated community efforts and government leadership. Emphasis is placed on policymaking, assessment and intervention methods, special populations, food security and program management. Students will gain understanding of course concepts and ideas presented in the classroom through readings, written assignments, presentations, class discussions, case studies and exams.
Students analyze the contribution of social factors to health and illness status, including risk behavior and health inequities. Health behavior programs and interventions are explored. Theories of health promotion, health behavioral change, and health education are examined and applied to a health promotion project focusing on health disparities in urban communities.
This course integrates earth sciences, geology, environmental sciences, and health initiatives in the urban communities aimed at identifying, managing, and eliminating environmental threats to health. Environmental problems, including lead poisoning of children, radon, asbestos exposure, urban brown fields, toxic waste, urban pollution, and other environmental hazards, are examined through the lens of social justice and health equity. Students explore urban environments identified as high risk for disease and illness from environmental pollutants and geographic or climactic problems. The impact of natural disasters on public health is also examined.
Students review theories of violence causation and epidemiologic patterns of violence in urban settings. An ecological framework is used to guide critical thinking about risk and protective factors regarding violence. Students explore secondary data sources important to public health practitioners working in the area of violence prevention and control. Programs aimed at preventing violence and injury in urban settings will be examined and critically evaluated.
This course introduces basic concepts of epidemiology and biostatistics applied to public health problems. The principles and methods of epidemiologic investigation, summaries and displays of data, and the use of statistical approaches for describing the health of populations are emphasized. Various epidemiologic designs for investigating associations between risk factors and disease outcomes are also introduced. The importance of ethics in epidemiologic research underpins the course.
This course introduces multivariate data analysis methods. The course begins with an introduction to multivariate statistics, including matrix algebra. The course next focuses on multiple regression analysis, and Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA), along with Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), and repeated measures designs. It will also cover exploratory factor analysis, and introduce structural equation modeling. Students will receive extensive experience with data entry and analysis using SPSS and Mplus statistical computer packages.
This course investigates health education from the perspectives of history,
roles, theoretical foundations, and professional standards. Needs assessment,
program planning, development, implementation, and evaluation are
examined using model programs as exemplars. Health education needs of
vulnerable and socially disadvantaged populations are emphasized, including
health disparities, maternal and child care, and aging persons with disabilities.
Students plan and implement a service learning program for a vulnerable
population.
Students explore major health policy issues in the United States health care
system and the outcomes of policies for public, private, and not-for-profit
settings. They examine steps of policy analysis and apply these strategies
to evaluate health issues and health care. The legislative process and the
structure and financing of the health care system in the United States are
investigated as are influences of politics and interest groups on health policy
formulation. The effect of health policy on the health of urban communities
is analyzed along with the interplay of policy on infectious diseases, bioethical
issues, and globalization.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of health education strategies for urban community health settings. This course focuses on: needs assessment and program planning, health education delivery, behavior change interventions and methods, and health disparities. Students will evaluate and compare evidence-based programs as they develop health promotion programs for vulnerable populations. Strategies to conduct individual-level and group-level needs assessments are explored.
In this course, students explore needs assessment and program planning processes used to address public health problems faced by vulnerable populations. They investigate strategies to involve stakeholders in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of health promotion programs. Students evaluate and compare evidence-based programs as they develop health promotion programs for vulnerable populations. Strategies to conduct individual-level and group-level needs assessments will be explored.
Course content emphasizes theories of reproductive health, sexual development and factors influencing sexual behavior within the continuum of health and illness. Common sexual practices and reproductive health issues of people are studied within the context of lifestyle and situational life crises. Concepts of normal sexual function and dysfunction are examined. Contemporary sexual health and reproductive issues, obstetrical care in the United States and abroad, gender based violence, maternal morbidity and mortality, family planning, and reproductive health policy are explored. Theoretical foundations of the medical, psychological, socio-cultural, political, and biological determinants of human sexual behavior and reproductive health are examined. Issues of biology related to sex, gender identity, social sex role, and sexual orientation are discussed. Contemporary issues of sexual risk behaviors, sexually transmitted infections and safer sex practices will be investigated in addition to those issues of chronic illness, disability, and sexual coercion.
This course will focus on constructions of gender and sex and their implications for understanding determinants of population health and creating healthy public policy. It will consider how different frameworks of addressing gender and biological sex shape questions people ask about, and explanations and interventions they offer for societal patterns of health, disease, and well-being. The course will demonstrates ways of conceptualizing gender in relation to biology and health using case examples. In all cases, issues of gender will be related to other social determinants of health, including social class, racism, and other forms of inequality. Implications of diverse approaches will be debated, as part of developing useful strategies for improving physical, mental, and social well-being. This course is an elective and is not offered every year, based on demand.
This course explores various media and technology resources available for
health education. Utilizing models suitable for teaching and learning, the
impact of technology and mass communication on health education is
examined. Students evaluate health education modalities appropriate for
diverse urban populations across the lifespan. They explore the effect of
media in consumer attitudes and beliefs and collaborate with communication
experts to plan and implement a specific media strategy. Service learning
projects emphasize the design of health education programs for urban
populations.
This course investigates research methods and multidisciplinary research applied to health care systems. An overview of research designs and reporting is presented. Quantitative data analysis is explored using data analysis software. Qualitative methods, including the use of focus groups, are also explored. Evidence-based public health practice is emphasized. The importance of ethics in public health research is woven throughout the course.
Part one of this two-part course allows students to begin to link public health concepts and ideas presented in the classroom to real world experiences in the public health practice setting. Emphasis is placed on needs assessment, data collection and program planning. Students discuss actual case studies illustrating the practical challenges of data collection and program development.
Part two of this two-part course allows students to continue to link public health concepts and ideas presented in the classroom to real world experiences in the public health practice setting. Emphasis is placed on program implementation and program evaluation. Students discuss actual case studies illustrating the practical challenges of program implementation and evaluation. As one of the final courses of the Bachelor of Science in Public Health program, students focus on public health workforce development, leadership, professional development, and preparation for entry into the public health education workforce.
In this course, one of the final courses taken in the Bachelor of Science in Public Health curriculum, students explore the leadership role of public health professionals, especially leaders working in urban public health and health education. Public health leadership concepts addressed in this course include: principles of leadership and management, team building, ethics and professionalism, strategic planning, networking, budgeting and finance, and continued professional development.
Students explore key health policy issues in the United States health care system and the outcomes of policies for public, private, and not-for-profit settings. They examine steps of policy analysis and apply these strategies to evaluate health issues and health care. The legislative process and the structure and financing of the health care system in the United States are investigated as are influences of politics and interest groups on health policy formulation. The effect of health policy on the health of urban communities is analyzed along with the interplay of policy on infectious diseases, bioethical issues, and globalization.
This course provides an in-depth study of the most critical public health issue facing society. Topics include current HIV/AIDS information and an exploration of issues including the history of HIV, transmission and risk factors for infection, local and global disparities in HIV infection, trends in research programs, international/political implications of research and prevention efforts, and the experiences of people living with HIV/AIDS. This class is typically offered as a 1-week winter intersession class before the spring semester.
Internships are off-campus experiential learning activities designed to provide students with opportunities to make connections between the theory and practice of academic study and the practical application of that study in a professional work environment. Internships offer the opportunity to "try out" a career while gaining relevant experience and professional connections. Internships are completed under the guidance of an on-site supervisor and a faculty sponsor, who in combination with the student will create a framework for learning and reflection. For-credit internships are open only to students who have completed at least ten public health course credits.
Internships are off-campus experiential learning activities designed to provide students with opportunities to make connections between the theory and practice of academic study and the practical application of that study in a professional work environment. Internships offer the opportunity to "try out" a career while gaining relevant experience and professional connections. Internships are completed under the guidance of an on-site supervisor and a faculty sponsor, who in combination with the student will create a framework for learning and reflection. For-credit internships are open only to students who have completed at least ten public health course credits.
Students explore concepts of health promotion and disease prevention
for at-risk populations. Principles of teaching and learning are explored.
Interdisciplinary collaboration and collaborative practice are emphasized.
Students implement a health education project for a community aimed at
promoting healthy outcomes. Program evaluation research structures the
project.
This course provides students with an understanding of racial and ethnic influences on health status and the societal factors that shape them. During the course, students examine the concepts of race and ethnicity, and distinguish between categories of biological and social constructionist perspectives. Students define and describe racial and ethnic health inequities, discuss mechanisms underlying inequities, and think critically about existing health research on health inequities. Students will explore theoretical frameworks for interpreting inequities in health and examine approaches for elimination of racial and ethnic health disparities.
Program Contact Information
Robin Danowski, MS, RD, LDN
Assistant Professor and Director
St. Benilde Tower, room 3019
danowski@lasalle.edu
215-991-3618