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Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutritional Sciences

Program Description:

The Department of Animal & Nutritional Sciences offers to qualified individuals the option of pursuing a Master of Science Degree in Nutritional Sciences. This degree program provides advanced education in the scientific basis of nutrition and the role of nutrition in health promotion and disease prevention. Expertise is gained through coursework and scholarship designed to develop critical inquiry skills in the nutritional sciences. Applicants can choose from two program options depending on their educational objectives, background, and career goals.

Thesis Option

This option requires students to become actively engaged in a significant research project related to the nutritional sciences, while also providing students with a comprehensive understanding of nutritional science through coursework. It emphasizes active participation in hypothesis-driven research that is expected to result in publishable results. This option is for students who anticipate a professional career involving research or discovery. It also is best for those who anticipate a significant reliance on the basic biological basis of nutrition. This path is also usually (not always) undertaken by students who expect to pursue further advanced study, i.e., additional graduate studies or medical school, after receiving their MS Degree.

Nonthesis Option

This option emphasizes coursework in the nutritional sciences, while providing students with exposure to theoretical aspects of research and participation on a research project. The research experience is less significant than for the thesis option, and usually involves a practical application of nutritional sciences to individuals or a community. This option is usually (not always) undertaken by students who anticipate a professional career that emphasizes applied aspects of nutrition, rather than basic biological aspects of nutritional sciences. This path is also preferred by working professionals who are seeking advanced training in nutrition leading to an accredited degree.

You are encouraged to identify faculty member who would be interested in serving as your mentor during your graduate studies. Visit our faculty webpage and contact them directly for further information.

There are excellent opportunities for qualified students to compete for teaching and research assistantships that provide a stipend and waive tuition costs.