The PhD in Nutrition Sciences program provides training and research experiences in basic and translational nutrition science. Students learn the science of nutrition as it relates to maintaining the health of individuals and populations, as well as the biochemical basis and application of nutrition to promote health and prevent disease.

Students who are enrolled in the PhD in Nutrition Sciences program complete coursework through a planned, structured, yet flexible curriculum that is tailored to meet each individual’s needs. We create an environment that fosters novel learning and the use of cutting-edge technology to facilitate both scholarly proficiency and an in-depth understanding of nutrition sciences. Our coordinated and interdisciplinary courses will help you transcend boundaries and allow you to succeed in professional and academic arenas.

Possible areas of study are:

Program Timeline

Most students complete the PhD in Nutrition Sciences program within 4 to 5 years of full-time study. The following is a general overview of the program timeline:

Years 1 and 2: Complete core and elective coursework, as well as non-dissertation research hours.

• End of Year 1: Identify research mentor
• End of Year 2*: Produce first research publication

Year 3: Candidacy examination occurs.

Years 4 and 5: Committed to dissertation research. Including completion of original research project, writing of related publications, and dissertation defense.

*Students without a thesis masters degree will complete their thesis requirements during Year 2.

Core Completion Requirements

The following is an overview of the PhD in Nutrition Sciences' Core Course Requirements, listed in chronological order. This outline reflects the first two years of study, subsequent years include additional research hours and elective coursework.

*Denotes courses offered online only

**NTR 788 needs to be taken for a minimum of 5 semesters but should be taken in every Fall and Spring while enrolled in the program. Additional credits of NTR 788 beyond 5 credits may be applied as electives.

***Students should register for electives in odd years.

All students complete a minimum of 12 non-dissertation research hours (NTR 798) and 12-dissertation research hours (NTR 799) in addition to 24 hours of elective coursework.

Approved Electives

The following is an overview of the approved electives for students in the PhD in Nutrition Sciences program. Other electives may be approved by the PhD Program Director in the Department of Nutrition Sciences.

*Denotes courses offered online only

** NTR 755 may only be taken after completing some CIRTL teaching courses and with permission of the program director.