Course Information for M.S. in Nutrition

Program Description

The 36-credit hour Master of Science in Nutrition has a Community Nutrition emphasis and is designed to enhance knowledge and skills of nutritionists, dietitians and other professionals in nutrition practice. The focus of the degree is to assist professionals in lifelong learning in a multicultural world. Courses are designed to reflect evidence-based nutrition guidelines. This degree is offered fully online.

Courses in the Program

NUTR 5303 – Nutrition Research

Examination of the scientific method and its application to the study of nutrition-based research.

NUTR 5309 – The Energy Nutrients

In-depth study of the macronutrients, the major building blocks of life. Sources, classification, functions, digestion, absorption, metabolism, and excretion of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. Coverage of the major energy-generating pathways. Emphasis on various categories of macronutrients as related to health. Metabolism and health effects of alcohol.

NUTR 5325 – Nutrition Education and Counseling

In-depth study of communication and counseling skills utilized in conducting nutrition education to individuals and groups in community clinic settings. Requires case study presentation utilizing a transdisciplinary, developmental problem-solving model as a learning framework to enhance critical thinking skills. 

NUTR 5332 – Vitamins and Minerals

Emphasis on the specific micronutrients, vitamins and minerals, as related to health. Sources, classification, functions, digestion, absorption, metabolism, and excretion. Vitamin/mineral deficiency and toxicity. Assessment of micronutrient status.

NUTR 5338 – Integrative Nutrition

Emphasis on science-based literature of popular complementary and alternative nutrition therapies, including phytonutrients, functional foods, herbals, botanicals, and dietary supplements. Nontraditional medical practices commonly used to improve health will also be covered. The safety, efficacy, and standardization of dietary supplements will be discussed.

NUTR 5348 – Nutrition in Pregnancy and Infancy

Role of nutrition in health during the preconception period, gestation, embryonic and fetal development, lactation, and the first year of life. Focus on conditions that require special nutrition concern.

NUTR 5349 – Nutrition in Aging

Role of nutrition in successful aging. Study of physiologic, social and economic factors that contribute to nutrition needs and concerns of older adults.

NUTR 5350 – Food, Culture, and Health

An overview of global cultures and eating habits. Exploration of health and well-being as affected by food and culture.

NUTR 5351 – Weight Management

Examination of current research regarding strategies for management of overweight and obesity.

NUTR 5352 – Eating Disorders

Cause, identification, treatment and prevention of eating disorders. Students learn screening techniques appropriate for identifying individuals with eating disorders.

NUTR 5359 – Sports Nutrition

The role of nutrition is discussed as it relates to athletic performance and physical activity.

NUTR 5389 – Nutrition Capstone

Integration of learning from previous coursework and enhancement of leadership skills. Utilizing both instruction and self-guided learning, students develop and report on a tangible project addressing community nutrition needs or an area of interest of the student.