About the Diabetes Prevention Program
The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is a collaborative initiative across the University of California system, involving UC Health, Systemwide Human Resources, the Healthy Campus Initiative, and UCLA. This program is available to UC campuses statewide, offering resources to support healthier lifestyles and prevent diabetes.
At UC Santa Barbara, the program is hosted by the Sustainability Internships & Community Resources (SICR) Department in partnership with Housing, Dining, and Auxiliary Enterprises, as well as the WorkLife Wellbeing Program in UCSB Human Resources.
Designed for both staff and faculty, UCSB DPP aligns with National Diabetes Prevention Program guidelines, utilizing:
- A Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)-approved curriculum
- Trained lifestyle coaches
- Group support to foster motivation and accountability
UCSB DPP has earned FullPlus recognition by the CDC for meeting all performance criteria and quality standards. The program is taught by UCLA instructors and offered in a hybrid format, combining in-person and virtual sessions to maximize accessibility and engagement.
What You'll Gain
UCSB DPP provides participants with education, encouragement,
and practical tools to achieve their health goals. Sessions focus on:
- Nutrition Basics: Guidance on making healthier food choices
- Physical Activity: Strategies to incorporate movement into daily routines
- Stress Management: Techniques to handle stress effectively
- Motivation: Creative ways to stay on track toward wellness goals
Program Format
The year-long program is structured for gradual progression:
- Weekly classes for the first three months
- Biweekly sessions in month four
- Monthly meetings from months five through twelve
This schedule ensures participants receive continuous support as they build lasting habits.
Get Involved
Join UCSB DPP to take the next step
in your wellness journey!
Open to staff and faculty
Accessible in multiple formats (virtual, hybrid, and in person) for convenience
Enrollment
Our next class will be a Spanish Language Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) class starting October 6th at 1-2pm. You can sign up for the class here.
If you are interested in participating in a English Language version, there are two upcoming virtual groups that you can join:
Mondays 12-1PM Starting 8/25/25 Hosted by Teresa Guglielmo tguglielmo@ucsd.edu Website for UCSD DPP (who is hosting this cohort, though it is still open to UCSB folks)
Tuesdays 1-2pm Starting 10/21/25 Hosted by Juliet Cushing jcushing@mednet.ucla.edu