Lifetime wellness or health is dependent upon a myriad of factors, many of which are lifestyle related. In fact, close to 80% of the leading chronic illnesses may be prevented through lifestyle changes. The primary mission of the Nutritional Science Program is to educate and train individuals to become entry level health professionals at the Bachelor's and the Master's levels. In this capacity, graduates can promote positive, personal behavior changes and environmental changes which impact upon the health of the individual.

The diverse academic field of nutrition enables students to become specialized in dietetics and nutrition, community nutrition, alternative nutrition, and foodservice management or food technology. Students completing the Nutrition Option or Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) are eligible to apply for dietetic internships. In addition, students who complete the Coordinated Dietetics Program (CDP) are eligible to take the registration exam to become Registered Dietitians. The DPD or the CDP may be completed with either the BS or MS program in Nutritional Science. A mission statement and goals have been set for both the DPD and CDP programs.

A BS degree in Food Science and Technology (FST) is currently being developed. A variety of FST courses are now offered. Contact Dr. Laura Calderon for additional information about this program.