Tucson, AZ | School of Nutritional Science & Wellness
The University of Arizona offers 5 Nutritional Sciences tracks:
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences & Wellness
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Human Performance
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutritional Sciences
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nutritional Sciences
The programs provide interdisciplinary approaches combining dietetics, food science, nutrition policy, health behavior, biochemistry, and physiology to develop solutions for improving health and wellness.
Program Tracks Overview
| Program Name | Est. Tuition | Est. Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences & Wellness | $63,000 (AZ resident) | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Human Performance | $63,000 (AZ resident) | 4 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics | $63,000 (AZ resident) | 4 years |
| Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences | $33,250 | 2 years |
| Doctor of Philosophy in Nutritional Sciences | $59,850 | 5 years |
All programs emphasize hands-on experiences through laboratory research and community outreach programs alongside expert faculty. The programs prepare students for careers in healthcare, fitness training, wellness, public policy, education, and research.
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutritional Sciences
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nutritional Sciences
The programs provide interdisciplinary approaches combining dietetics, food science, nutrition policy, health behavior, biochemistry, and physiology to develop solutions for improving health and wellness. All programs emphasize hands-on experiences through laboratory research and community outreach programs alongside expert faculty. The programs prepare students for careers in healthcare, fitness training, wellness, public policy, education, and research, with median pay for nutrition and dietitians at $69,680 per year (U.S. BLS 2023).
Program Tracks Overview
Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences & Wellness
The estimated cost for the BS Nutritional Sciences & Wellness program is approximately $63,000 for Arizona residents and would take 4 years to complete on a full-time basis (120 credits at $525 per credit hour).
Nutritional Sciences & Wellness Curriculum
The 120-credit BS Nutritional Sciences & Wellness provides interdisciplinary approach to learning about food, nutritional therapies, and optimal well-being with strong science core that students tailor to their interests, including preparation for graduate school in medical, dental, or pharmacy fields.
First Year (33 credits):
- ENGL 101: First Year Writing 1 (GE Foundation Composition) (3cr)
- ENGL 102: First Year Writing 2 (GE Foundation Composition) (3cr)
- MATH 112: College Algebra (GE Foundation Math) (3cr)
- Statistics (3cr)
- MCB 181R: Introductory Biology (3cr)
- MCB 181L: Introductory Biology Lab (1cr)
- NSC 170C1: Nutrition, Food, and You (GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Natural Scientist) (3cr)
- NSC 195A: Exploring Professional Pathways in Nutrition, Food, Health, and Wellness (1cr)
- NSC 275: Fundamentals of Precision Nutrition (3cr)
- GE Foundation Second Language (8cr, first and second semester)
- Introduction to General Education Experience (Entry Course) (1cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Social Scientist (3cr)
Second Year (33 credits):
- CHEM 151: Chemical Thinking I (4cr)
- CHEM 152: Chemical Thinking II (4cr)
- PSIO 201: Anatomy and Physiology I (4cr)
- PSIO 202: Anatomy and Physiology II (4cr)
- NSC 260: Nutrition Communication and Scientific Literacy (3cr)
- NSC 312: Weight Stigma, Nutrition and Health (3cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Artist (3cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Humanist (3cr)
- Health Science Electives (8cr)
Third Year (31 credits):
- CHEM 241A: Organic Chemistry I (3cr)
- BIOC 384: Foundations in Biochemistry (3cr)
- MIC 205A: Microbiology (3cr)
- MIC 205L: Microbiology Lab (1cr)
- NSC 308: Nutrition and Metabolism (3cr)
- NSC 395A: Experiential Learning (2cr)
- NSC 395C: Graduate Schools Exploration (1cr)
- GE Core Building Connections (3cr)
- Health Science Electives (8cr)
- Nutrition Electives (6cr)
Fourth Year (30 credits):
- ECOL 320: Genetics (4cr)
- BIOC 385: Metabolic Biochemistry (3cr)
- NSC 410: Applied Nutrition and Disease (3cr)
- NSC 408: Nutritional Biology (3cr)
- GE Core Building Connections (6cr)
- Nutrition Electives (9cr)
- UNIV 301: General Education Portfolio (GE Exit) (1cr)
Note: Courses subject to change; meet with advisor regularly to review course plan.
More curriculum details are available here.
Nutritional Sciences & Wellness Clinical/Research Requirements
Students complete NSC 395A: Experiential Learning (2 credits) gaining hands-on experience through laboratory research and community outreach programs. The program emphasizes fundamental and applied experience in classroom, lab, and field settings.
- NSC 395A: Experiential Learning (2 credits)
- NSC 395C: Graduate Schools Exploration (1 credit)
- Laboratory research opportunities with expert faculty
- Community outreach program participation
- Hands-on experiences in nutrition science
Nutritional Sciences & Wellness Admissions Requirements
Application Process:
- Meet University of Arizona eligibility requirements based on application type (first-year, transfer, international, returning)
- Submit university application (paper applications: contact 520-621-3237 or admissions@arizona.edu)
- Finalize and submit materials before application deadline
- Review process: 2-3 weeks
Entry Terms: Fall, Spring, Summer Campus: Tucson/Main Campus
Academic Requirements:
- Standard University of Arizona undergraduate admission requirements
- Moderate math knowledge level
- Second language proficiency through 2nd semester
- No pre-major required
Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Human Performance
The estimated cost for the BS Nutrition & Human Performance program is approximately $63,000 for Arizona residents and would take 4 years to complete on a full-time basis (120 credits).
Nutrition & Human Performance Curriculum
The 120-credit BS Nutrition & Human Performance combines nutrition, exercise, and behavioral sciences with core courses in body composition, sports nutrition, exercise prescription, and health promotion, plus electives in business management, leadership, behavioral science, teaching, and coaching.
First Year (33 credits):
- ENGL 101: First Year Writing 1 (GE Foundation Composition) (3cr)
- ENGL 102: First Year Writing 2 (GE Foundation Composition) (3cr)
- MATH 112: GE Foundation Math (3cr)
- Statistics (3cr)
- MCB 181R: Introductory Biology I (3cr)
- MCB 181L: Introductory Biology I Lab (1cr)
- NSC 170C1: Nutrition, Food, and You (3cr)
- NSC 195A: Exploring Professional Pathways in Nutrition, Food, Health, and Wellness (1cr)
- NSC 315: Sports Nutrition (3cr)
- PSY 150A1: The Structure of Mind and Behavior (GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Social Scientist) (4cr)
- GE Foundation Second Language (8cr)
- Introduction to General Education Experience (Entry Course) (1cr)
Second Year (33 credits):
- PSIO 201: Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4cr)
- PSIO 202: Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4cr)
- NSC 260: Nutrition Communication and Scientific Literacy (3cr)
- NSC 320: Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Health Promotion (3cr)
- NSC 415R: Advanced Sports Nutrition (3cr)
- NSC 415L: Advanced Sports Nutrition Lab (1cr)
- GE Core Building Connections (3cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Humanist (3cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Artist (3cr)
- Health Science Elective (4cr)
Third Year (30 credits):
- CHEM 151: Chemical Thinking I (4cr)
- CHEM 152: Chemical Thinking II (4cr)
- NSC 306: Introduction to Nutrition and Human Performance (3cr)
- NSC 406R: Exercise Physiology and Metabolic Testing (2cr)
- NSC 406L: Exercise Prescription and Metabolic Testing (1cr)
- NSC 393: Internship (3cr, required)
- Health Science Elective (4cr)
- Teaching, Coaching and Leadership Elective (3cr)
- Behavioral Elective (3cr)
- Diversity Elective (3cr)
Fourth Year (30 credits):
- PHYS 110: Introductory Studio Physics I (4cr)
- NSC 445R: Assessment and Regulation of Human Body Composition (2cr)
- NSC 445L: Assessment and Regulation of Human Body Composition Lab (1cr)
- NSC 308: Nutrition and Metabolism (3cr)
- NSC 498: Senior Capstone (3cr)
- Preparation for Careers in Nutrition and Human Performance (1cr)
- GE Core Building Connections (6cr)
- Health Science Elective (4cr)
- Behavioral Elective (3cr)
- General Education Portfolio (Exit Course) (1cr)
Note: A 3-unit internship is required for this degree.
More curriculum details are available here.
Nutrition & Human Performance Clinical/Internship Requirements
Students complete NSC 393: Internship (3 credits) as required degree component, gaining hands-on experience in health and fitness industry, community health and wellness settings, or related professional environments.
- NSC 393: Internship (3 credits, required)
- Laboratory components in sports nutrition, body composition, exercise physiology
- Hands-on training in exercise prescription and metabolic testing
- Body composition assessment laboratory experience
- Senior Capstone project (NSC 498, 3 credits)
Nutrition & Human Performance Admissions Requirements
Application Process:
- Meet University of Arizona eligibility requirements
- Submit university application
- Review process: 2-3 weeks
Entry Terms: Fall, Spring, Summer Campus: Tucson/Main Campus
Academic Requirements:
- Standard University of Arizona undergraduate admission requirements
- Moderate math knowledge level
- Second language proficiency through 2nd semester
- No pre-major required
Accelerated Master’s Program Option: Students earning BS in Nutrition and Human Performance can apply for accelerated M.A. in Sport and Recreation Leadership (College of Education), counting 12 undergraduate credits toward master’s degree (30 credits total), focusing on equity/justice in sport, policy analysis, coaching, and administrative functions.
Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
The estimated cost for the BS Nutrition and Dietetics program is approximately $63,000 for Arizona residents and would take 4 years to complete on a full-time basis (120 credits).
Nutrition and Dietetics Curriculum
The 120-credit BS Nutrition and Dietetics provides science-based approach to nutritional therapies and human health/well-being with courses in medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, nutrition counseling, and food service management, preparing students for NDTR credential and pathway to RDN credential.
First Year (32 credits):
- ENGL 101: First Year Writing 1 (GE Foundation Composition) (3cr)
- ENGL 102: First Year Writing 2 (GE Foundation Composition) (3cr)
- MATH 112: College Algebra (GE Foundation Math) (3cr)
- Statistics (3cr)
- MCB 181R: Introductory Biology (3cr)
- MCB 181L: Introductory Biology Lab (1cr)
- NSC 170C1: Nutrition, Food and You (GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Natural Scientist) (3cr)
- NSC 195A: Exploring Professional Pathways in Nutrition, Food, Health and Wellness (1cr)
- NSC 301: Nutrition and the Life Cycle (3cr)
- GE Foundation Second Language (8cr)
- Introduction to General Education Experience (Entry Course) (1cr)
Second Year (34 credits):
- CHEM 151: Chemical Thinking I (4cr)
- CHEM 152: Chemical Thinking II (4cr)
- PSIO 201: Anatomy and Physiology I (4cr)
- PSIO 202: Anatomy and Physiology II (4cr)
- NSC 225: Foundational Skills (2cr)
- NSC 260: Nutrition Communication & Scientific Literacy (3cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Social Scientist (3cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Humanist (3cr)
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives: Artist (3cr)
- GE Core Building Connections (6cr)
Third Year (35 credits):
- CHEM 241A: Lectures in Organic Chemistry (3cr)
- BIOC 384 or BIOC 385: Foundations in Biochemistry or Metabolic Biochemistry (3cr)
- MIC 205A: Microbiology Lecture (3cr)
- MIC 205L: Microbiology Lab (1cr)
- NSC 308: Nutrition and Metabolism (3cr)
- NSC 325: Foundations in Medical Nutrition Therapy (4cr)
- NSC 325L: Foundations in Medical Nutrition Therapy Lab (1cr)
- NSC 351R: Fundamentals of Food Science (3cr)
- NSC 351L: Food Studies Laboratory (1cr)
- NSC 358: Institutional Food Management (3cr)
- NSC 395D: Earning the RDN Credential (1cr)
- NSC 395A: Experiential Learning (2cr)
- GE Core Building Connections (6cr)
Fourth Year (31 credits):
- NSC 408: Nutritional Biology (3cr)
- NSC 420: Nutrition Education and Counseling (3cr)
- NSC 422: Weight Inclusive Approach to Counseling (3cr)
- NSC 425: Medical Nutrition Therapy I (4cr)
- NSC 435: Medical Nutrition Therapy II (4cr)
- NSC 444: Community Nutrition (3cr)
- NSC 458: Food Service Organization and Management (3cr)
- NSC 495A: Dietetic Internship Preparation (1cr)
- Nutrition Elective (3cr)
- UNIV 301: General Education Portfolio (GE Exit) (1cr)
Program Availability: Tucson/Main Campus, Online (Arizona Online), Yuma
More curriculum details are available here.
Nutrition and Dietetics Clinical/Experiential Requirements
Students complete NSC 395A: Experiential Learning (2 credits) and laboratory-based courses throughout curriculum. Upon graduation, students eligible to take Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians for NDTR credential and can pursue RDN credential with additional supervised practice training.
- NSC 395A: Experiential Learning (2 credits)
- NSC 395D: Earning the RDN Credential (1 credit)
- NSC 495A: Dietetic Internship Preparation (1 credit)
- Laboratory components in medical nutrition therapy, food science
- Post-graduation: Additional supervised practice required for RDN credential
- NDTR exam eligibility upon graduation
Nutrition and Dietetics Admissions Requirements
Application Process:
- Meet University of Arizona eligibility requirements based on application type
- Submit university application
- Review process: 2-3 weeks
Entry Terms: Fall, Spring, Summer Campus: Tucson/Main Campus, Online (Arizona Online), Yuma
Academic Requirements:
- Standard University of Arizona undergraduate admission requirements
- Moderate math knowledge level
- Second language proficiency through 2nd semester
- No pre-major required
Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
The estimated cost for the MS Nutritional Sciences program is approximately $33,250 and would take 2 years to complete on a full-time basis (35 credits at $950 per credit hour).
MS Curriculum
The 35-credit MS Nutritional Sciences allows students to earn graduate degree while pursuing interdisciplinary opportunities in basic, clinical, epidemiological, or translational research, completing 33 units of coursework plus thesis research with faculty advisor.
Program Structure:
- 33 units of coursework
- Thesis research with faculty advisor guidance
- Typically completed in 2 years
- Does not lead to RDN credential
- Pathway to Ph.D. studies
Core Components:
- Advanced nutritional sciences coursework
- Research methodology and biostatistics
- Specialized courses based on research focus
- Thesis research and defense
- Interdisciplinary opportunities across departments
Career Preparation:
- Academia
- Government agencies
- Industry positions
- Nonprofit organizations
- Research enterprises
MS Research/Thesis Requirements
Students work with faculty advisor to guide and support thesis research, completing required research units and thesis defense as culminating experience.
- Faculty advisor-guided thesis research
- Research methodology training
- Thesis proposal development
- Thesis defense
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities
MS Admissions Requirements
Graduate College Minimum Requirements:
- Four-year undergraduate bachelor’s degree from regionally accredited U.S. institution or comparable international degree recognized by home country Ministry of Education
- Minimum GPA 3.0 or higher based on 4.0 scale
- GRE scores may be included if completed
International Applicants:
- Proof of English proficiency required for applicants from countries where English is not official language
- Minimum international degree requirements verification
Application Materials:
- Statement of purpose (required)
- Minimum one letter of recommendation (required)
- Official transcripts
- Program may have additional requirements
Program Statistics:
- Application acceptance rate: 25%
- Average time-to-degree: 1.7 years
- Enrollment 100% female
- Enrollment 50% international
Doctor of Philosophy in Nutritional Sciences
The estimated cost for the Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences is approximately $59,850 and would take 5 years to complete on a full-time basis (63 credits at $950 per credit hour).
Ph.D. Curriculum
The 63-credit Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences provides graduate degree while pursuing interdisciplinary opportunities in basic, clinical, epidemiological, or translational research, comprising minimum 36 major coursework units, 18 dissertation units, and 9+ minor coursework units.
Required Core Courses:
- NSC575: Nutrigenomics for Disease Prevention and Intervention (3cr)
- NSC595: Emerging Topics in Nutritional Sciences (2cr, taken 2x = 4cr)
- NSC597D: Communicating Nutritional Sciences (1cr, taken 5x = 5cr)
- NSC597E: Exploring Wellness Through Scientific Research (1cr, taken 2x = 2cr)
- NSC608: Bioenergetics and Metabolism (3cr)
- NSC610: Nutrition and Disease (3cr)
- NSC624: Micronutrients (3cr)
- NSC699: Laboratory Rotation (3cr)
- BIOS576A: Biostatistics in Public Health (3cr)
- HSD649: Survival Skills and Ethics (3cr)
- Outside department journal club (1cr)
- Outside department seminar (1cr)
- NSC920: Dissertation (18cr)
Elective Courses (2+ credits): Selected from departments including Nutritional Sciences, Agricultural Leadership, Animal/Biomedical Sciences, Biostatistics, Business Administration, Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Epidemiology, Environmental Science, Genetics, Health Promotion, Immunobiology, Instruction/Assessment, Molecular/Cellular Biology, Neuroscience, Physiology, Psychology
Minor Requirements: Minimum 9 units in Nutritional Sciences or another department appropriate to career interests
Program Timeline:
- First year: Minimum 9 units major coursework fall/spring semesters (18 units)
- Following years: Remaining coursework and dissertation research
- Typically completed in 5 years
Ph.D. Dissertation/Research Requirements
Doctoral dissertation focuses on student’s research project under supervision of selected faculty advisor/mentor, with laboratory rotations, seminars, and comprehensive research training.
- NSC920: Dissertation (18 credits minimum)
- NSC699: Laboratory Rotation (3 credits)
- Faculty advisor/mentor supervision
- Dissertation proposal and defense
- Research seminars and journal clubs
- Comprehensive examinations
Ph.D. Admissions Requirements
Graduate College Minimum Requirements:
- Four-year undergraduate bachelor’s degree from regionally accredited U.S. institution or comparable international degree
- Minimum GPA 3.0 or higher on 4.0 scale
- GRE scores may be included if completed
Application Materials:
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- Program-specific requirements
International Applicants:
- English proficiency proof required
- International degree requirements verification
Contact: NSW-NSGP@email.arizona.edu
Tuition
Undergraduate Programs (Arizona Residents):
- Tuition: $525 per credit hour
- Mandatory fees: $51.50-$228.00 (varies by credit load)
- 1 credit: $576.50 total
- 12 credits: $6,528 total per semester
- Full-time annual estimate (30 credits): $15,855
- Total 4-year BS program estimate (120 credits): $63,000+
Note: Arizona Online programs have tuition cap at 12 units in Fall/Spring semesters for Arizona residents. No tuition cap for non-resident students.
Graduate Programs:
Professional Science Master’s (Applied Nutrition: Dietetics):
- Tuition: $950 per credit hour
- Mandatory fees: $51.50-$228.00
- 1 credit: $1,001.50 total
- 12 credits: $11,628 total per semester
Master of Science (35 credits estimated):
- Total estimate: $33,250 (35 credits × $950)
Doctor of Philosophy (63 credits):
- Total estimate: $59,850 (63 credits × $950)
See the official tuition page for more details.
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