Nutritional Sciences

The nutritional sciences major emphasizes intensive study in biological and physical sciences as a basis for understanding the science of nutrition and the relationships between nutrients and human health. Core course requirements emphasize human nutrition with areas of study in energy metabolism, proteins, vitamins, minerals, human development, and clinical and community nutrition. Issues and techniques involved in nutrition research, food and nutrition laboratory experiences and an independent research project are included in the core courses. Supporting discipline courses emphasize biochemistry, biology, chemistry, mathematics, microbiology, physics and physiology.

This major is designed to meet the admissions requirements of most colleges of medicine, dentistry and paramedical colleges while the student pursues a bachelors degree in a clinically related area. The major also prepares students to enter graduate school programs in nutrition and other life sciences. Graduates in nutritional sciences qualify for positions in the food industry, corporate wellness and health promotion programs, public health programs, pharmaceutical sales and similar occupations.

Each student obtains one-on-one academic advising from a nutritional sciences research faculty member. These faculty provide information and guidance to nutrition sciences students on programs of study, career opportunities, internships, opportunities for research experience with department faculty,  independent study and study abroad opportunities as well as scholarships. Peer advisers are also available. (See Nutritional Sciences Handbook (PDF)* for listing.)

Select from these links for more information

Contact an advisor:

Professor Dale Romsos, Ph.D.
Nutritional Sciences Coordinator
Food Science and Human Nutrition
Michigan State University
106E G.M. Trout FSHN Building
East Lansing, MI 48824-1224
Phone: (517) 355-8474, Ext. 104
Fax: (517) 432-5295
E-mail: dromsos@msu.edu

The Gourman Report ranked the MSU Nutritional Sciences Program third in the United States out of 218 programs evaluated.

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