MRP Option

Our rewarding curriculum blends research and theory in nutrition communication, providing you with the advanced skills and knowledge that can only come from a master’s education.

You’ll spend the first two terms learning in the classroom, then going on to fulfill the MRP component during your third term.

As a student in the MRP option, you must:

Take seven required courses:

• NC8104A/B Dietetic Practice Seminar A flexible, application-focused approach engages students in self-reflection and self-development practices to support their growth as dietetic professionals. Students create and implement professional development plans and apply pathophysiology and nutrition knowledge to create evidence-based nutrition care plans in case studies and clinical simulations. Communication projects enhance inclusive, accessible communication skills and utilize principles of universal instructional design. Pass/Fail. 1 Credit

• NC8101 Appraising Scientific Evidence Emphasis will be placed on understanding how to evaluate and interpret research to make informed judgements regarding complex nutrition issues.  Students will learn to interpret the tools used by scientists to measure the impact of interventions and scientific outcomes from a variety of research approaches and study designs. Students will learn how to synthesize knowledge and formulate an evidence-based position on a complex nutrition issue by conducting a systematic literature review. 1 Credit

• NC8102 Individual Health Behavior This course explores theories and constructs related to health behaviour, behavioural determinants, and behavioural change in individuals. Students will develop an understanding of biological and psychosocial processes that support or impede an individual’s health and effective communication tools that promote health. Students will engage in workshops, discussions, activities, and simulations, designed to increase their readiness for dietetic competency attainment in their practicums. 1 Credit

• NC8205 Directed Studies Students arrange to work with an individual faculty member on a course designed to pursue readings in a specific area that is relevant to nutrition communication. 1 Credit

• NC8104B Nutrition Communication Seminar A flexible learning approach is used to engage students in self-reflection and self-development practices that support their growth as resilient health professionals.  Students create professional development plans and identify goals and strategies for success. Principles of universal instructional design and inclusive, accessible communication are discussed and applied. Communication skills are enhanced through opportunities for public speaking and development of creative communications. Pass/Fail. 1 Credit

• NC8103 Nutrition Communication Strategies Principles and strategies for adult education, online, and social media communication are examined and applied.  Evidence and strategies for evaluating the effectiveness of online communication for health promotion are critiqued. A flexible learning approach enables students to apply communication best practices using varied channels and vehicles.   Media training workshops enhance students’ skills and engage them in formulating key messages, simulations, and offering constructive peer feedback. 1 Credit

• NC8201 Food and Nutrition Policy This course provides an overview of contemporary food and nutrition policy issues and debates. The policy development process and roles and perspectives of multiple stakeholders are explored through examinations of current policy issues. Students will develop their ability to critically examine and communicate policy issues and debates to stakeholders as food and nutrition subject matter experts. 1 Credit

• NC8209 Knowledge Translation This course aims to increase students’ understanding of the principles of knowledge translation. Emphasis will be placed on critical appraisal of studies including systematic literature reviews and clinical practice guidelines; and synthesis, interpretation, and communication of research results to public and professional audiences. 1 Credit

And complete a major research paper/project: 

• The MRP is an opportunity for a student to acquire breadth and depth of understanding concerning a topic/issue, demonstrate his/her ability to synthesize evidence, and formulate original ideas in a specific area of nutrition communication. All MRPs involve completion of a comprehensive structured review of the literature to establish the evidence base on which the project is based. The essence of the MRP is the critical examination of the full spectrum of scholarly work on a topic and the development of evidence-based rationales to support all project decisions. Completion of a comprehensive and balanced structured literature review, use of a critical and evidence-based approach in the analysis of findings, and development of rationale-based recommendations/outcomes are essential elements of a high quality MRP.

The MRP option is offered on a full-time basis only. Due to the intensive nature of our program, part-time study is not available.

Students are expected to complete the program within three terms. The first two terms consist of classroom learning, and the final term consists of the MRP component.

Classes are scheduled on two days each week, but students should plan to be at Toronto Met outside of class time to complete assignments, collaborate on team projects, meet with instructors and so on. Aside from attending the three-hour classes, students should expect to spend at least 24 additional hours per week preparing for classes and completing assignments.

The MHSc program is demanding. When considering whether or not to work while completing the program, it is important to consider work-life balance. Some of our MRP students have been able to work part-time during their studies.

Our program structure is as follows: