Lifestyle and Wellbeing Course

Overview

Scientific approaches to improve hauora and mental wellbeing. Developed by Professor Julia Rucklidge.

In Professor Julia Rucklidge’s wellbeing series, you’ll learn how to boost and enhance the different aspects of hauora (health) through psychology, nutritional interventions and the lifestyle changes explored in this course.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the noise about cold plunges, meditation and flashy wellbeing apps? It can be tough figuring out where to start for a healthier, happier life. 

In this online health and wellbeing course, you'll explore the evidence behind which lifestyle changes make the most difference to our mental health and wellbeing. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to science-backed strategies that can truly transform your life. 

Boost your body and mind through practical, scientific insights from renowned Clinical Psychologist, Professor Julia Rucklidge. Through her research, you'll learn about practices that can help you handle stress and grow resilience, including mindfulness, spending time in blue and green spaces and practicing creative arts and music. 

Invest in yourself with this online wellbeing course and get away from second-guessing and following fads. Learn the practical, evidence-based strategies you need to get happier and healthier. 

This course is ideal for

• Health and wellbeing industry professionals and representatives
• HR professionals
• Managers
• Teachers
• Parents
• Anyone interested in health courses online

The information in this course is intended for general education purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek advice on diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions from your doctor or other registered healthcare professional.

What you'll learn
 

• The factors and frameworks that contribute to wellbeing
• Specific biological and sociological factors involved in developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Lifestyle changes and activities we can use to enhance wellbeing
• How to develop effective and specific strategies to enhance personal wellbeing and/or the wellbeing of others using these lifestyle changes and activities

You will acquire practical steps to improve your wellbeing through changes to your lifestyle and an understanding of what aspects of your lifestyle have an impact.

Course outline

The course is divided into six modules that you'll work your way through over the nine weeks of learning. Each module includes specific learning objectives, educational content across a range of media, activities to apply what you've learnt, plus a 'temperature check' survey to make sure you're getting what you need as a learner.

Module 1: Introduction to wellbeing and the role of lifestyle
Learn about the impact of lifestyle factors on our wellbeing and become confident using the language of wellbeing. 

Module 2: Social connections and social media
Investigate subjective wellbeing, the significance of meaningful social interactions and relationships, and the potential adverse effects of social media on our connections.

Module 3: Being present
Understand the significance of presence to our wellbeing and learn how to be more mindful in your daily life by training the powerful muscle that is your brain.

Module 4: Physical interventions
Understand the physical aspects in our lifestyles that can have an impact on our wellbeing looking at exercise, sleep, cold and heat therapy.

Module 5: Enhancing wellbeing
Explore how music, the arts, and pet ownership can have a positive impact on our general wellbeing.

Module 6: Nature and environments
Look at the influence natural and man-made environments have on our wellbeing including green and blue spaces and urban environments.

Assessments

• 5 Module quizzes = 25% (5% each)
• 3 Small forum activities = 30% (10% each)
• 1 Large forum activity = 15%
• 1 Reflection assignment = 30%

Your course total grade is calculated based on the weighting of each assessment. To pass the course you need a course total of over 50 out of 100. You may attempt each assessment up to two times. You do not need a passing grade for every single assessment, but you do need to engage with/complete all assessments. 

Requirements

If you're under 20 years old, you’ll need University Entrance or an equivalent to enrol. If you’re aged 20 or older, you can usually gain entry through 20+ admission so long as: 

• You are a citizen or hold a NZ Residence Class Visa of New Zealand or Australia, or are a citizen of the Cook Islands, Tokelau, or Niue; and 
• Are 20 years of age or older by the official course start date.

You'll also need to be confident listening, reading and writing in English.

Technology requirements 

• We recommend a laptop or desktop computer and a reliable internet connection.
• A PDF reader (like Adobe Acrobat Reader DC) to download PDFs with assessment instructions.
• Word processing software (like Microsoft Word or Google Docs) to complete your assignments.

Course fees
Course fees must be paid before learning can begin, either via online credit-card payment, or by contacting info@uconline.ac.nz to request an invoice. Please note: fixed invoice payment dates apply, so we recommend getting in touch with us as soon as possible to request an invoice, as this option is subject to availability.

Withdrawals and refunds
Once learning begins, you are eligible for a withdrawal with refund up until the end of week 2. After this date, refunds may be available if your circumstances are exceptional, for example if you've experienced a serious medical event.

Cap & minimum enrolment threshold
A minimum number of learners is needed for effective interaction and feedback, while a maximum cap of learners ensures high quality learning and support. If the minimum number of enrolments required for a course isn’t met, or the maximum cap is exceeded, learners will be given the option to defer their study or receive a refund.

Crediting this course towards a degree
In certain cases the points from this course can be credited towards further study with UC. Learn more about cross-crediting and recognition of prior learning.

Our people

Please note: our academic team develop and present video content within their courses, but are not always the course facilitator. The course facilitator will engage with learners in the course forums, answer queries and mark assignments.