MASTER. Major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment. MSc in Environmental Sciences

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1 MASTER MSc in Environmental Sciences Major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment Departement Umweltsystemwissenschaften Department of Environmental Systems Science

2 Why a Major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment Human health is determined by complex interactions between hereditary predispositions the genes, individual lifestyles and environmental influences as well as societal aspects. The major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment focuses on noxious substances, infectious diseases and diet as examples of important factors affecting human health. The aim is the understanding of the influence of these factors on human health under changing environmental conditions. The mechanisms are studied by taking an integrative, systemic approach, from the molecular through the cellular to the organismic and societal level. This approach provides the basis to map out strategies to improve human health on a societal level. The Major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment within Environmental Sciences The Master programme in Environmental Sciences provides a high level, researchbased education on how the natural environment works and how humans interact with both the biotic and abiotic environment. The programme attracts students who are keen on expanding their knowledge in one of the six major subjects. Master programme The two-year Master programme is composed of four parts consisting of a total of 120 credit points (CP). 2 semesters 1 semester 1 semester Major 40 CP Minors 20 CP Work experience 30 CP Master thesis 30 CP Major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment Major in Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics Major in Ecology and Evolution Major in Human-Environment Systems Major in Forest and Landscape Management Major in Atmosphere and Climate

3 Educational Objective The programme qualifies graduates to gain an in-depth knowledge in the field of environment, nutrition and human health and to be conversant with current developments at the forefront of the related sciences adapt scientific methods and techniques to new applications work in interdisciplinary projects acquire knowledge in new areas independently be analytical in their work, founded on a broad and in-depth scientific background work in an international context according to their social and cultural sensitivity as well as language and communication skills work in positions that require sound judgement, personal responsibility, initiative and innovation power

4 Educational Concept The major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment is at the interface of human health, food and environmental sciences. Enrolment is therefore offered within two Master Programmes: Environmental Sciences and Food Science. Further information about enrolment within the Food Science programme can be found under The major programme is composed of four modules. A term paper (6 CP) provides a forum for discussion on fundamental achievements and the latest topics in the field. Modules Public Health 10 CP compulsory Infectious Diseases 10 CP Nutrition and Health 10 CP 2 out of 3 In total 40 CP Environment and Health 10 CP Term Paper Term Paper 6 CP compulsory The Master programme is completed with an 18-week work experience aimed at gaining practical experience within a company, a public administration or a non-governmental organisation. It is finished with the Master thesis, a six-month research project during which the students are integrated into a research group. Requirements General prerequisites include a solid background in mathematics and natural sciences as well as in basic social sciences and environmental systems. The specific requirements for the major include basic knowledge in anatomy and physiology, immunology, human nutrition, environmental chemistry and ecotoxicology.

5 The Modules Public Health This module is compulsory and includes all aspects of public health including the patterns of community health, epidemiology and statistical concepts as well as biological and environmental determinants, the role of the social sciences, the communication and monitoring of food safety in public health. Infectious Diseases Infectious diseases are still a major cause of death worldwide. Considering the almost infinite varieties of microorganisms, however, it is surprising that there are relatively few pathogens that cause disease in otherwise healthy people. The module about infectious diseases provides an overview on the principles of microbial pathogenesis and the arms race between pathogens and host at the molecular and cellular level. Nutrition and Health This module is primarily designed to describe and discuss the impact of diet and lifestyle on obesity and chronic diseases in the industrialised world, but also includes the negative health consequences of insufficient food and micronutrient deficiencies in the developing world. The module promotes food-based strategies to maintain health and to prevent disease and offers a broad spectrum of disciplines from nutrigenomics through nutrition to consumer behaviour with a special emphasis on the physiology of eating. Environment and Health This module focuses on chemical and microbial pollutants, particularly in the water. It considers their impact to the environment and looks at the role of the human behaviour in this context. It deals with the exposure, annoyances and risks for humans to these factors. The module provides an understanding of the biochemical and cellular mechanism as well as processes in natural and technical systems.

6 Course Topics Some Examples Food Fortification Public Health Concepts Applied Biostatistics Food Borne Pathogens Functional Micoorganisms in Food Physiology of Eating Toxicology: Food Drugs and Environment Water Resources and Drinking Water

7 Benefits of the Major in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment The major provides an overview of how public health plays a central role in disease prevention efforts in both industrialized countries and the developing world, through both local and international health systems. Michael Zimmermann, PD, Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich To reach the goal of a sustainable global society, it is essential that we give students the best training possible at the interface of human health, nutrition and environmental sciences. Kris McNeill, Professor for Environmental Chemistry, ETH Zurich In our major, we enjoy learning from well-respected experts from many different fields. There are few institutions in the world that boast such a knowledgeable and dedicated faculty to facilitate this type of program. Kelvin Fong, Master student in Environmental Sciences, ETH Zurich

8 Who can apply Y www. ethz.ch/en /master How to apply Y admission/master When to apply Y / Interested? Y students/master Information Y The Master programme in Environmental Sciences at ETH Zurich is based on the corresponding Bachelor in Environmental Sciences ETH. Graduates of ETH or graduates of universities in Switzerland and from abroad are welcome. The Admissions Office of ETH Zurich informs and advises prospective students (graduates of universities in Switzerland other than ETH and from abroad) concerning the admission procedure and the enrolment requirements. The application period for admission to the Master course and the academic calendar are published online. Use our online evaluation tool to assess your qualification for the Master programme in Environmental Sciences and to choose a suitable major. Student Administration Office Environmental Sciences ETH Zurich, CHN H 50.4 Universitätstrasse 8, 8092 Zurich master@usys.ethz.ch