The aim of this module is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the foundational concepts of physical activity and nutrition for public health. Through the module, students will explore the fundamental roles of physical activity and nutrition in the prevention, management and aetiology of diseases and health outcomes across the life course. Students will examine the physical activity and nutrition recommendations for public health and critically evaluate the inequalities in health behaviours and the implications for public health.

The aim of this module is for students to gain practical experience and competencies in the measurement and quantification of movement behaviours (physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep) and nutrition. Topics covered will include aspects of measurement theory (concepts and terminology), evaluation of measurement techniques (choice, agreement, validity and reliability), practical aspects of measurement tool deployment (self-report and device assessed) and the link between the data collected via measurement tools and health outcomes.

This module aims to introduce students to the application of epidemiological methods to real-world public health issues, with a focus on physical activity, nutrition and lifestyle-related conditions. Students will develop skills in formulating research questions, research design, data collection and analysis using quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods approaches.

Students will develop an understanding of the ways public health priorities are developed and addressed through health and social policy, systems of health promotion and care and local public health leadership practices. Drawing on social science theories and international research, they will critically examine policymaking, public governance and health systems, enhancing their understanding of how interventions are developed, implemented and situated within wider social and political contexts.