Nutrition students study the relationship between food and weight management.
Students interested in a career in nutrition can pursue a bachelor's degree in either nutrition, nutrition and food science or nutrition science. Combining general course content in math and science with more specific studies in food science, biochemistry, physiology, dietetics, food and nutrition studies, biotechnology and other disciplines, an undergraduate degree program in nutrition prepares graduates for entry-level field work and research or continuing graduate study.
Program
A bachelor's degree in nutrition is generally earned by completing a four-year program of study combining essentials of math, science, chemistry and written communication with specialized subjects relating to food and nutritional science. Students progress from classes in communications, chemistry, biology, economics, agriculture and food safety to more advanced labs in food technology, chemistry and processing, microbiology of food, statistics, food product development and analysis. The combination of mathematical and food science expertise prepares graduates for work creating and marketing safe and nutritious food products, meals and diet plans.
Advanced Education
After completing the necessary course of study and earning a degree, students who wish to pursue advanced education may consider a master's degree or even doctorate program in nutrition. Graduate nutrition programs offer further specialization for degree candidates allowing them to sharpen their expertise in areas such as diet and exercise, metabolic regulation, weight management and pediatric nutrition. Doctoral students perform in-depth and often ground-breaking research as part of their program requirements and graduate with the experience and skill to work at the top of their field.
Careers
Graduates holding a bachelor's degree in nutrition can pursue a variety of careers in the health, medical and human service industries. Internships are a common avenue to employment offering new graduates the chance to apply their knowledge and gain experience as dietitians or nutritionists (see Resources below). Titles in the field of nutrition include clinical dietitian, community dietitian, food processor and nutritional consultant.
Job Outlook
Thanks to the recent rise in both government action and consumer awareness regarding diet, exercise and proper nutrition, the career outlook for nutrition professionals is particularly good. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that average job growth for dietitians will surpass that of all other jobs through 2014, making nutrition a sound educational investment for those currently completing a degree.
Cost
As with most any bachelor's degree, student costs will vary greatly depending on the institution attended and related living expenses. According to The College Board, Students at four-year colleges or universities can expect tuition fees between $3,000-$6,000 (for public schools) to more than $25,000 (for private schools). An online degree program can be a low-cost, faster-paced alternative to the traditional degree, but again overall fees will vary depending on the chosen institution.
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