General Graduate Programs FAQs

Is the online option available for the MS or the PhD programs?

We only offer an online MPH program. We do not offer an online PhD or online MS program at this time.

What is the difference between the programs?

MS: This program requires students to be present on campus for a majority of the course work, while some courses may also be taken online. The length of the program typically ranges between 2 to 3 years depending on the prior preparation of the graduate student in the field of nutrition. The M.S. program requires a thesis, upon completion of the core-requirements and other electives. Details on the requirements of the program can be found on our Master of Science page.

MPH (on campus): This program requires students to be present on campus for a majority of the course work, while some courses may also be taken online. The length of the program typically ranges between 2 to 3 years depending on the prior preparation of the graduate student in the field of nutrition. MPH students are required to take part in a practicum. In addition, students are required to either complete an MPH project or take 6 additional credits plus a final oral exit exam. Details on the requirements of the program can be found on our MPH page.

MPH (online): The online MPH program is similar to the on-campus program with regard to the curriculum. The only difference is that it allows distant students and working professions the flexibility of taking online courses at their own pace. This fully online course also provides the option of pursuing the program as a full time or part time student. Full time online students typically complete the program in 2 years while students pursuing the degree on a part time basis may complete the program during 3 academic years including 3 summer sessions.  Details on the requirements of the online program can be found on our Online MPH page.

PhD: This program requires students to take UMass courses for two consecutive semesters, some of these courses may be taken online. Upon completion of course requirements students must pass the written and oral comprehensive exams, after which students are officially considered PhD candidates. Upon successful completion of the comprehensive exams, students work on their research topic and dissertation, during which on campus residency is no longer required. The length of the entire program typically ranges between 4 to 5 years, although it may take longer depending on the pace of their dissertation research. Details on the requirements of the program can be found on our PhD page.

What types of graduate programs does the nutrition department offer?

The department offers three distinct programs:

  • Master of Science (MS)
  • Master of Public Health (MPH) – On campus & Online
  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Which program is right for me - the MPH or MS?

The MPH program is targeted towards those individuals with an advanced degree (such as MS, MD, PhD, etc.) in a health-related field, those who are Registered Dietitians, or those individuals who have 3-5 years of relevant post-bachelor’s experience and have taken two courses in nutrition. Students can either pursue a full time on campus MPH program or an online MPH program on a full time or part time basis. The online MPH program is targeted more towards working professionals who want to pursue higher education without giving up their current professional position.

The MS program is targeted towards individuals who have completed at least a Bachelor’s degree and are interested in pursuing graduate education in the field of nutrition. The MS program provides students with the knowledge base and skills to research nutrition problems and to plan community, clinical, and individual applications of nutrition prevention and treatment at various levels. The MS in Nutrition provides advanced nutrition competencies and skills for application at the clinical, research, and group settings.