BS in Nutrition
Be part of the evolving science of nutrition and health
The B.S. in nutrition is a pathway to many careers including dietitian, nutritionist, health educator, physician, physician assistant, dentist, osteopath, nurse, naturopath and biomedical researcher as well as opportunities in the tech and food industries. Nutrition is a major with exciting, innovative career opportunities.
UMass Amherst nutrition students follow one of three tracks – Dietetics, Nutrition and Health Sciences, Nutrition and Society, each designed for students with different interests and career goals.
All nutrition majors complete a core of science courses that provides a foundation for understanding the relationship between nutrition, health and well-being. They also learn about: the actions, interactions and physiological effects of nutrients and bioactive compounds; changes in nutrient needs across the life span; nutrition in the prevention and treatment of health conditions; foods and their nutritional content; nutrition science research and communication; social, economic, cultural, and psychological factors that influence consumption choices and access to foods.
Questions? Email Nicole Goldstein at nicolegoldst [at] umass [dot] edu (nicolegoldst[at]umass[dot]edu).
Benefits list
Dietetics
Careers in dietetics include hospital and outpatient nutrition care and counseling. Graduates also enjoy careers in private practice, wellness and fitness industries, sports and tech innovations.
Nutrition and Health Science
Graduates of this track find careers as doctors, PAs, osteopaths, and naturopaths. Some enjoy careers in clinical or biomedical research, and with food companies.
Nutrition and Society
Graduates of this track have found careers as registered nurses, in wellness, telehealth, healthcare consulting, domestic and international public health nutrition programs.
Experiential Learning
Nutrition students have opportunities to develop the skills they will need to move on to the next step in their career. Follow the link to learn more about opportunities open to all nutrition students.
What Our Nutrition Students and Alumni Have to Say
Hear from our Nutrition students and alumni as they talk about the benefits of a nutrition degree from UMass Amherst.
In the Spotlight
“I wanted to provide nutrition education on social media because I think that a lot of misinformation is spread to a vulnerable audience, and I would like to be a voice to combat all the misinformation. Second, I wanted to learn more about nonclinical areas that dietitians can work in.” - Amber on her summer internship with the RDNs of Big Y
Application information & deadlines
Prospective students interested in the nutrition major begin by applying to the university.
Fall 2026 Early Action Deadline
Prospective first-year students must submit their application via the Common App by Nov. 5.
Regular Decision Deadline
Prospective students should apply to the Common App by Jan. 15.
Spring Semester Application Deadline
Prospective students who wish to begin in the spring term should submit the Common App by Oct. 15.
Nutrition
Offering an interdisciplinary approach to the study and application of the relationship between diet, foods, and health.