About the Certificate
The Maternal and Child Nutrition certificate provides students a foundation in maternal and child nutrition and the skills to work in public health settings that aim to advance the nutrition and health of women and children in communities.
Nutrition is a critical component of public health, particularly among women and children, as poor nutrition and food access results in malnutrition, poor child growth and development, disease risk, and adverse health outcomes. It is a national and global priority to improve maternal and child nutrition with evidence-based practices, programs, and policies.
Women and children are at risk for having poor dietary intake. This is particularly concerning with respect to child growth and development and long-term disease risk into adulthood.
- Suzanne Cole, Lecturer, Nutritional Sciences
Students will gain a fundamental understanding of nutrition early in the life cycle including the biological basis of nutrient requirements from preconception to childhood. Courses in this certificate examine the consequences of malnutrition and food insecurity, critically evaluate evidence-based interventions and policies as well as learn how early life experiences influence disease risk later in life. With this information, students will be able to apply concepts and methods to improve the dietary intake and nutritional status of women and children, communicate scientific findings and recommendations, critically evaluate research, and advocate for programs and policies.