Master of Science in Nutrition

The Master of Science (MS; stand-alone) is not accepting applications at this time.

The Master of Science (MS; stand-alone) in Nutrition is 30 credits with eight (8) credits of approved electives to meet individual areas of emphasis in dietetics practice. This flexible program may be completed either as a part-time of full-time student. Depending on your pace, it may take you between three semesters to three years to complete the program.

The master's coursework is offered in a hybrid model. Classes are 100% online. Some require students to go to a distance learning classroom; others offer remote access via video conferencing software. In addition, some classes are self-directed, requiring students to work autonomously.

Classwork employs a variety of learning strategies, including case studies, oral presentations, research projects, exams, and other modalities. 

Comprehensive Examinations:

Students must pass written and oral comprehensive examinations. For the Master of Science in Nutrition, the written exam is fulfilled by a capstone. The oral examination is fulfilled through a presentation of findings. Examinations for students are conducted internally through the department. 

Capstone projects are a scholarly activity that may include a range of activities such as writing and submission of a grant proposal; analysis of a current date set and preparation of a manuscript; development and execution of a small research study. 

Optional Thesis

Students may choose to write a thesis in place of the capstone. Students who opt for a thesis project may find it beneficial to increase the thesis credits and decrease the elective courses.

Admissions

Apply for the Master of Science in Nutrition through the  Idaho State University Graduate School application. 

On the graduate school application, please indicate your program intent to pursue a Master of Science in Nutrition. Once it is determined that you meet the general requirements for graduate studies at ISU, your application will be forwarded to Department of Nutrition and Dietetics for review and admission decision into this program.

The combined MS in Nutrition/Dietetic Internship program employs a different admission process.

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting the general requirements for the ISU Graduate School, admission requirements for the MS in Nutrition, include:

  • BS in Dietetics, Food and Nutrition, or other related disciplines from a college or university regionally accredited in the United States or its equivalent from a school in another country
  • Resume or  Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • GPA—at least a cumulative of 3.0
  • Three letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with your academic or employment performance (these are submitted electronically through the online graduate school application)
  • Personal statement on why you want to pursue the MS degree (maximum 750 words)

How to Apply

The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics website provides more information about the specific steps of the MS in Nutrition stand-alone application process.

Transfer credits may be awarded for the electives (maximum 8 credits), but not core courses. Advisor approval is required. Students should follow the graduate school policy and form for transfer credit requests.

Master of Science in Nutrition (Public Health Emphasis)
NTD 6610Current Topics in Nutrition1
NTD 6620Nutritional Epidemiology3
NTD 6622Maternal, Infant, and Child Nutrition3
NTD 6624Nutrition and Aging3
NTD 6640Research, Writing, and Grantsmanship3
NTD 6645Capstone Project I3
MPH 6620Health Program Planning and Evaluation3
MPH 6660Behavior Change Theory and Applications3
Approved Electives8
Total Credits30
 
Possible Electives
DHS 5501Mindfulness in Health Science2
DHS 5502Survey of Aging Issues3
DHS 5503Interprof Sys Geri Manage3
DHS 5504Geri Interprof Internship2
DHS 5506The Mindful Practitioner2
DHS 5599Experimental Course (Mindful Self-Compassion)2
HE 6623Curriculum and Supervision3
HE 6639Teaching Strategies in Health3
MPH 6601Applications in Epidemiology3
MPH 6604Social and Cultural Perspectives in Public Health3
MPH 6605Leadership Policy and Administration3
MPH 6606Environmental and Occupational Health3*
NTD 5539Sports Nutrition3*
NTD 5557Experimental Foods3*
NTD 5561Nutritional Biochemistry I3*
NTD 5581Special Problems in Nutrition and Dietetics1-2
NTD 5585Nutritional Biochemistry II3*
NTD 6650Capstone Project II (Capstone II or Thesis II)1-3
NTD 6651Thesis3-6
PSYC 5531Behavioral Neuroscience I3
*

Courses cannot be taken for graduate credit if the student has previously taken them at the undergraduate level.

**

Students who opt for a thesis project may find it beneficial to increase the thesis credits and decrease the elective courses. Please discuss this option with your faculty advisor