The University of Memphis

The Nutrition Science concentration provides you with an excellent opportunity to pursue your interests in understanding the roles of nutrition in health and disease, development and aging, and in athletic performance. The objective of the Nutrition Science program is to ensure that you obtain an advanced and comprehensive education in the science of nutrition, along with research training that includes experimental design and analysis, laboratory skills, and experiences in scientific writing and presentations. Interdisciplinary opportunities exist with faculty in biological sciences, chemistry and biochemistry, exercise, sport and movement sciences, and psychology, as well as with faculty at other institutions within the Memphis area. You will have opportunities to study the influences of nutrition at levels of organization ranging from genes to intact organisms. 

The master’s degree in Nutrition Science is a 33-credit-hour program that offers a diversity of courses for you to develop a curriculum that is matched to your specific interests. Nutrition students may choose to do a research project culminating in a formal thesis or applied project. Students in the research arm of the program will need to identify a research advisor who will assist in forming a graduate committee to provide guidance in identifying courses and assisting in the design, performance, analysis and interpretation of your research. A second track is available where students will do either a laboratory residency or additional classes. If students decide to pursue the lab residency track or classes-only track, a written comprehensive exam is required for graduation.  Upon completing the degree program, you will be well prepared for advanced graduate study (PhD or MD), as well as for employment opportunities in academia, private industry or government. The multidisciplinary training available will position you to be a leader in the field of nutrition.

Nutrition is a broad field that spans multiple disciplines. Students entering the Nutrition Science program may have had previous training in various fields, bringing a diversity of backgrounds, expertise and experiences. We are specifically looking for students who want to be innovative, have a desire to learn and want to explore new areas of study.