Graduate Masters Degree Program

 

The MS is available as thesis or non-thesis options.  Students interested in research are eligible for the dietetics internship program are encouraged to apply to the MS-thesis option.  Those less interested in research or who will have heavy course loads (e.g., taking undergraduate dietetics courses) are encouraged to apply for the MS non-thesis option.

MS admission requires:

a) transcripts that document completion of at least one and preferably two semesters of general inorganic chemistry
b) transcripts that document completion of one semester of organic chemistry
c) transcripts that document completion of physiology or biochemistry (preference for admission is given to students who have completed both courses)
d) a faculty member is willing to serve as the applicant's advisor. 

Applicants should submit their application to the MS program when they can satisfy criteria a, b, and c.  Students admitted to the MS program typically have strong backgrounds and degrees in nutrition or a closely related biological science. Also, at least one faculty member is available to serve as the master thesis advisor. 

Highly-qualified MS students are eligible for graduate assistantships for teaching or research, which require thirteen to twenty hours of work for the department each week. Examples of MS thesis or non-thesis topics include research on nutrient metabolism related to obesity and chronic disease, health benefits of dietary supplements and functional foods, and food and nutrition education programs to promote healthy eating habits for children, adults, and older adults.  Many of our MS students are also enrolled in our dietetics internship program, present their thesis research at professional meetings, and publish their research findings in peer-reviewed journals. This degree generally requires two years.  Careers of recent graduates include dietitian in clinical and community settings, sensory testing and food product development, regulatory positions in government and industry, and research technicians in a variety of settings.