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In this dynamic and hands-on Nutrition course, students will dive deep into the topic of body image discrepancies, with a focus on anthropometrics—the science of body measurements—and how body image perception influences and is influenced by nutrition and cultural norms.
Through a combination of lectures, research activities, and group projects, students will develop a foundational understanding of nutrition science, body image, and their interconnectedness in healthcare.
Day-to-Day Activities:
Each day, students will engage in interactive lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities to familiarize themselves with key nutrition concepts. Early in the course, students will learn the basics of nutrition, including the impact of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals on health. They’ll explore the scientific method and delve into different research methods used in the field of nutrition and public health. Students will also spend time conducting measurements, gathering data, and working in small groups on research projects. Throughout the course, they will use easy-to-access tools—such as calculators, weighing scales, and measuring tapes—to measure body dimensions like height, weight, waist, and hip circumference, while also using surveys to assess body image perceptions in their social circles.
Projects and Final Presentation:
As part of the course, students will conduct a mini-research project where they will:
- Formulate a hypothesis about body image perceptions and nutritional status.
- Collect anthropometric data using simple tools.
- Analyze body image perception scores using figure rating scales.
- Calculate Body Mass Index (BMI) and discuss its limitations in assessing health.
- Present their findings and offer explanations based on the relationship between body image, culture, and nutrition.
This project culminates in a final group presentation where students will showcase their research, data analysis, and conclusions. The project will not only test their grasp of nutrition science but will also introduce them to scientific research, data interpretation, and presenting evidence-based conclusions.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Explain the scientific method and its application in nutrition research.
- Conduct basic anthropometric measurements and analyze body image perceptions.
- Understand how Body Mass Index (BMI) and other metrics can be misleading and the importance of using multiple tools to assess health.
- Critically evaluate how nutrition, culture, and body image interact and influence health outcomes.
- Collaborate on group research projects and effectively present scientific findings.
Required Materials: Laptop: Students are required to bring a laptop for data entry, analysis, and research purposes.
Course Materials:
All textbooks, handouts, and other reading materials will be provided, as well as measurement tools.
This course offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals, nutritionists, or those interested in the intersection of culture and health. Students will leave with a solid understanding of nutrition science, the skills to measure and assess body image discrepancies, and the ability to critically evaluate how body image and culture impact health and well-being.
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This course is offered at the UMass Amherst campus as a residential program. Local students may apply to attend as a commuter
Cost and Session Information
Dates: June 29 – July 12, 2025
Two-Week Intensives: $3,907 residential / $2,262 commuter
*Program fees listed above include tuition and room & board; materials and software may be required.
*All programs require submission of $45 application fee.
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