Undergraduate Programs – Admissions
Applications must be received and complete (including SATs or ACTs, fee, essay, transcript, and related documents) not later than February 1 for the fall semester and October 15 for the spring semester.
Nutrition Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
If you have an aptitude for science and like to work with people, Nutrition offers a unique opportunity to apply your talents on a personal level by helping people to improve their health. Equipped with the knowledge gained in this program, a nutritionist is able to assess nutritional needs, provide counseling and education, and implement a dietary plan compatible with optimal health for individuals or groups.
The course offerings and the list of course requirements established by the Department of Nutrition have been designed to conform to two criteria. First, there is a set of general requirements for a degree established by the University: 120 total credits, including the General Education course requirements. Second, there are the specific course requirements for the major, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition. These total approximately 65 credits.
All students complete a basic core of courses which provide an understanding of foods and their nutritional content, food selection and preparation, the physiological and biochemical portions of nutrients in the body, and the effects of inadequate or excessive intake of nutrients. In preparation for these courses, students must also complete courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and physiology. In addition, students who wish to become registered dietitians must complete additional coursework in foods and management, psychology, and statistics. Following graduation, these students must complete a Dietetic Internship and pass a national examination in order to complete the R.D. requirements. The second option prepares the student for graduate studies, nutrition research, or medical school.
For students wishing to pursue Dietetic Registration and to receive a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement, an additional 18 credits of coursework is required (some of which meet General Education Requirements also). The DPD is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association. The address and phone number of CADE are 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60606-6995; 312-899-4876.
Students planning to apply for admission to graduate school or medical school should include courses in calculus and physics.
