Masters (MS) in Nutrition and Food Systems
Impact the nutrition field for the better. In this online program, you will focus on improving the health of individuals by studying the impact of food systems on diets and wellness. This program will prepare you for careers in healthcare, private practice, community organizations and much more.
This graduate degree meets the new eligibility requirements (effective Jan. 1, 2024) to become a registered dietitian.*
At a Glance
Fall 2024
Spring 2025
Summer 2024
Credits and Tuition Cost (2023-2024)
Format
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Masters in Nutrition and Food Systems overview
What You'll Learn
Students will explore evidence-based strategies to improve the health of individuals and the communities where they live. Students will also gain knowledge and experience in the field of nutrition to support and grow in their profession
Focus Areas
- Food Policy and Sustainability: Understand the complex interplay between food systems, policies, and environmental sustainability. Learn to assess the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence food production, distribution, and consumption. Explore ways to design and advocate for policies that support equitable access to nutritious foods while minimizing ecological impact.
- Community Nutrition and Education: Gain skills in designing and implementing community-based nutrition interventions and education programs. Learn effective communication strategies to promote healthy eating habits and empower individuals and communities to make informed dietary choices. Explore cultural and socioeconomic influences on food behaviors and develop culturally sensitive nutrition education initiatives.
- Nutritional Science and Human Health: Delve into advanced studies of nutritional biochemistry, metabolism, and the impact of dietary choices on human health while exploring strategies for promoting optimal health through balanced diets.
Evidence-based Project
During the course of their online MS degree, students will complete an evidence-based practice (EBP) project that has been developed based on their professional or personal interests. The EBP project experience provides students with the research skills they need to deliver services using the highest levels of evidence-based practice. This project will take into consideration the scientific evidence, the expertise of the health professionals, and the needs of the stakeholders.
Licensure Information
This graduate degree meets the advanced degree eligibility requirement (effective Jan. 1, 2024) to become a registered dietitian. Obtaining an advanced degree is only one of the requirements needed to become a registered dietitian. Please read about the credentialing requirements here.
Course Examples
- DHN 603 Advanced Community Program Development
- DHN 605 Food Systems and Society
- DHN 608 Chronic Disease Management and Process
- DHN 774 Seminar in Nutrition and Food Systems
- DHN 598 Global Foods, Diet and Culture
- DHN 580 Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice in Dietetics
- 12 credits of elective courses
- Evidence-based practice project coursework (6 credits)
How to Apply
Application Requirements
Standard graduate application requirements apply.
- Submit a professional writing sample. This can be a paper you have written for a previous class, for publication, or for your work (white paper, newsletter, informational paper, etc.).
- Three (3) letters of recommendation (Only an email address is required. Our system will ask them to upload their letter.)
- CV or resume
- Statement of purpose. This document should be one or two pages (double-spaced) and include your background, your preparation for graduate school, your goals for pursuing a graduate degree, and your career goals.
Admissions Criteria
Standard graduate admission requirements apply.
- A relevant undergraduate degree (e.g. nutrition science/dietetics, exercise science, public health, biology, chemistry, nursing, public health, or other health-science related degrees) from an accredited institution.
- The applicant may be asked to complete pre-requisite courses such as, nutrition, physiology, or biology courses as deemed necessary by the DHN graduate program admissions committee.
Deadlines
Fall 2024
Spring 2025
Summer 2024
Distance Learning
Licensure & Authorization
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
AUTHORIZATION & LICENSURE INFOStudent Support
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success. These services are available completely online to meet the needs of our online students.