The goal of this course is to present a systems approach to obesity prevention - ie understanding the complex task of trying to change the way people eat, move, and live, and sustaining those changes over time. Students will learn causes and correlates of diet, physical activity, and obesity data and methods related to assessment of obesity, the health and financial consequences of the obesity epidemic, and will gain insights into obesity prevention, treatment, and policy approaches. Students will read peer-reviewed publications in obesity, participate in class discussions and debates, and engage in experiential activities that will reinforce learning. Students will conduct a semester- long research project and present their findings to the class using mobile technologies and online learning tools.