2014-08

Arizona State University
University Senate
Fall 2013

Senate Motion #2014-08

Motion Introduced by: Curriculum and Academic Programs Committee, Eduardo Pagan, Chair
 
Date of First Reading: October 7, 2013
 
Date of Second Reading: November 4, 2013
 
Title of Motion: Request from the College of Health Solutions – School of Nutrition and Health Promotion - for the establishment of a graduate degree – M.S. in Obesity Prevention and Management
           
Action Requested: The Curriculum and Academic Programs Committee recommends University Senate approval of a proposal submitted by the College of Health Solutions – School of Nutrition and Health Promotion - for the establishment of a graduate degree – M.S. in Obesity Prevention and Management

Rationale: The MS in Obesity Prevention and Management is an innovative, interdisciplinary degree that draws on a wide array of expertise at ASU to integrate perspectives from the social, applied, life, and health sciences and provides advanced graduate level problem-focused, experiential training that is grounded in evidence and best practices for effective prevention and management of obesity. This degree is geared towards post-baccalaureate students and professionals who wish to advance their understanding of social, cultural, environmental, health, and psychological issues associated with obesity. The program emphasizes the complex etiology of obesity and includes courses that will enhance students’ ability to work with individuals and populations at risk of obesity to develop effective strategies for prevention and management of the condition across the lifespan. High obesity rates are associated with an array of poor psycho-social and health outcomes at the individual level and increased health care and associated costs at the societal level.