Assessment methods in public health nutrition, 7.5 credits

Requirements for admission is having Bachelor's degree or vocational degree worth at least 180 higher education credits in public health science, healthcare or other relevant social sciences subject area. Proficiency in the English language documented by an internationally recognized test such as TOEFL with a total score of at least 79 (internet based), 550 (paper based), 213 (computer based), IELTS with a total score of at least 6,0 (no band less than 5,0), or other documentation that certifies English language skills equivalent to English B at Swedish upper secondary school.

By the end of the module each student will be able to:

* Choose and defend the appropriateness of their choices of methods for each of a varied range of purposes.

* Critically evaluate the uses and limitations of each of the assessment methodologies

* Develop a protocol for surveys of dietary intake and physical activity on individual and population level

* Use a statistics programme (SPSS) and perform simple statistical analysis on a set of data (ANOVA, t-test and simple linear regression)

* Demonstrate understanding of the principles for nutrition and physical activity recommendations and be able to evaluate and draw conclusions from study data

* Competently perform selected assessment methods in practical sessions

The course aims to increase the student's competence in designing epidemiological studies and be able to assess and validate (theoretically) dietary intake and physical activity on individual and population level.
It includes:

1. An overview and in-depth description of available assessment methods in nutrition, physical activity and body composition.

2. Choice of study design and statistical methods used in dietary and physical activity surveys

3. Theory of validity and reproducibility in assessment methods and practical calculated examples of these for several methods

4. Theory of nutrient recommendations and their practical use in evaluating dietary surveys

5. Theory and calculation of power, sample size and number of days required in nutrition and physical activity surveys.

6. Students keep a 3 day weighed inventory, 3- day activity diary and perform a 24-hour recall

7. Students perform a skinfold and bio-impedance assessment for body composition

8. Students develop a simple food frequency questionnaire

The course includes lectures, group exercises, individual and group assignments and practical sessions.

a. Written exam and written reports of solutions to problems in each type of assessment method.

b. Grades are given according to the 3-graded scale; fail/pass/pass with distinction

c. Seminars and practical sessions are compulsory. Absence from seminars must be compensated for by a written assignment. Absence from a practical session must be compensated for by taking part of the same session next time it is given.

d. Criteria for grades are handed out upon course start.


Students who have failed ordinary examination have the right to be reexamined five more times. This applies to examination of all compulsory modules. Students who have passed an examination have no right to be reexamined for a higher grade. Students who have failed two times have the right to be examined by another teacher.

The course has been cancelled and was offered for the last time in the spring semester of 2011. Examination according to this syllabus will be provided until the autumn semester of 2024, for students who have not completed the course with a passing grade.

The course will be evaluated in accordance with the guidelines established by the board of Education