Doctor of Philosophy in Nutritional Science

Our program trains caring and competent dietitians, nutritionists, and health scholars who use evidence-based approaches to promote nutritional well-being and disease prevention among underserved communities, positively affecting health behaviors and reducing health disparities.

The Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences at the Graduate School is designed to prepare students for nutrition-related careers in research, industry, public health, clinical practice, academia, and senior-level health consulting roles. The Ph.D. program emphasizes evidence-based approaches to the promotion of nutritional well-being and disease prevention among underserved communities, both nationally and globally. You may choose from two distinct fields of specialization: community nutrition and experimental nutrition. You will have the opportunity to pursue original research tailored to your chosen program of study. Our graduate faculty is interested in the design, implementation, and evaluation of nutrition interventions and policies at the local and global levels. You will benefit from the close mentorship of graduate faculty notable for its wide-ranging research examining issues such as food systems and food insecurity, the sources of nutritional disparities in communities, the psychological, economic, social, cultural, and health policy determinants of nutrition and health, and the nutritional factors affecting the incidence and prevalence of chronic diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Our graduates make meaningful contributions to the nutrition profession locally, nationally, and internationally. Program graduates go on to work as university faculty, dieticians and nutritionists, private consultants, media professionals, and researchers with private corporations and public agencies at the federal, state, and local levels.

Application for Admission

Online GradCAS application
Statement of purpose/ Statement of academic interest (500-1,000 words)
GRE scores not required
Official transcripts sent to GradCAS
3 letters of recommendation
Master's degree from an accredited university
Resume or Curriculum Vitae
Autobiographical statement (500-750 words)

GPA Required Minimums

Overall GPA minimum: 3.0
Undergrad GPA minimum: 3.0

IELTS - a minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score below 6.0.
TOEFL - (iBT) - 90