Master of Science in Nutrition
Our graduates provide leadership and solutions for challenging nutrition problems.
Specializations
The Master of Science in Nutrition offers two specialization tracks in a part-time, online format: Nutrition Science and Nutrition Education and Counseling. Both options provide unique opportunities to strengthen your understanding of human nutrition and give you an edge in the field.
There are specific differences between the tracks and core similarities. All students in our graduate program will leave with:
- The ability to assess nutrition problems, design interventions, and measure outcomes demonstrating improved health and wellbeing among individuals, families, communities, especially limited access populations.
- The desire, knowledge, and skills for professional growth, leadership, and success.
- Appreciation for scientific writing and knowledge of utilizing evidence for nutrition programs and recommendations
Specialization in Nutrition Science
The nutrition science track allows students to advance their knowledge in human nutrition and physiology by taking unique courses in nutrigenomics, advanced human physiology, and biochemical basis of nutrition. Students do not attend a week long session on campus, nor do they complete a practicum experience. You will round out your studies completing an independent study project.
Specialization in Nutrition Education and Counseling
Students wishing to engage with the Nutrition Education and Counseling track will take courses in nutrition counseling, nutrition education, and policy. Additionally, a week long session on campus at the University of North Dakota is required to prepare students for their 90 hour practicum experience in the field. In this track, students have the option of completing a thesis or an independent study.
Certificate in Health and Wellness Coaching
National coaching certification now available for N&D graduate students.
The National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) has awarded UND approval status for the Certificate in Health and Wellness Coaching (program pending phase II approval at UND). This means that starting this year students who successfully complete the 3-course sequence (see below: N&D 545, 550 and 560), attend all live training, and 50 coaching sessions meet the requirements to take the Health and Wellness Coaching Certifying Examination.
For more information, contact Graduate Program Director Anne Bodensteiner.
Graduate Nutrition Courses
N&D 545. Nutrition in Disease Prevention and Wellness. 3 Credits.
An exploration of prevention and wellness models specifically designed to decrease the mortality and morbidity of chronic disease in the United States population. The course focuses on the involvement of optimal nutrition and health behaviors in prevention of disease and promotion of wellbeing that encompasses a whole person perspective. Prerequisite: Admission to the program. SS.
N&D 550. Nutrition Education and Program Planning. 3 Credits.
Theoretical, research and applied aspects of adult nutrition education. Curriculum design models, instructional tools, program planning and evaluation of education interventions will be discussed in the context of chronic disease prevention. Effective teaching strategies and procedural models for designing effective nutrition education programs targeting the general public will be presented. Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor. F, odd years.
N&D 560. Nutrition and Health Coaching. 3 Credits.
This course develops and strengthens advanced nutrition coaching skills and nutrition counseling interventions using the evidence-based motivational interviewing style. The focus will be on attending to client-centered orientation and building therapeutic relationships through engaged communication skills. Core competencies explored with an emphasis on enhancing practical skill development through video demonstrations, real play, case studies, creative reflection, practice sessions with instructor feedback, and facilitated group discussions. Prerequisite: Admission into the program. F.
Graduate Programs
More information regarding course curriculum can be found with the Current Admission & Degree Requirements.