COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition is a professional graduate program designed to prepare students for advanced practice as registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) and leaders in health and wellness. The program emphasizes the integration of clinical nutrition, community health, food systems, and research, equipping graduates with the skills needed to address nutrition-related challenges across individuals, institutions, and populations.The curriculum is structured across two years and combines classroom learning, research training, and supervised experiential practice. In the first year, students build a strong foundation in advanced nutrition science and clinical practice. Core courses such as Medical Nutrition Therapy I and II develop expertise in diagnosing and treating nutrition-related conditions, while Advanced Nutrition Science strengthens scientific understanding of human metabolism and dietary needs. Students also study Nutrition Throughout the Lifecycle to understand nutritional requirements from infancy to older adulthood. Research preparation is emphasized through Research Methods in Health and Well-being, and students gain exposure to public and population health concepts through courses like Population Health and Risk Management.A key feature of the program is hands-on experiential learning. Students participate in community and clinical supervised practice, including nutrition counseling, public health nutrition programs, and food systems management. These experiences bridge theory and real-world application, preparing graduates for professional certification and practice.In the second year, students focus on leadership, evaluation, and advanced clinical competencies. Courses such as Leading Health Systems, Dissemination and Implementation Science, and Nutritional Assessment and Counseling develop skills in healthcare management and evidence-based decision-making. A thesis or research project allows students to contribute original work to the field of nutrition and dietetics. Statistical training further strengthens analytical abilities through electives in biostatistics, applied statistics, or computational methods.Overall, the program prepares graduates for diverse careers in hospitals, community health organizations, public health agencies, food service systems, and research institutions, with a strong emphasis on improving health outcomes through evidence-based nutrition practice.