Nutrition B.S.

Students must take a minimum 33 credits from the Didactic Program in Dietetics sub-plan. Students who choose this sub-plan will take a minimum of 88 credits for the Nutrition major.

The Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) provides excellent undergraduate preparation to meet the knowledge requirements delineated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) for entry-level dietitians. The DPD training includes a strong science component of biological sciences, chemistry, and biochemistry courses appropriate for admission to graduate school. A liberal arts core and specialized courses in nutrition, nutritional biochemistry, clinical nutrition, food science, menu planning, and food service management provide depth and breadth. The mission of the University of Minnesota DPD is to prepare students for entry into and successful completion of supervised practice leading to eligibility for the CDR credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist, a variety of employment opportunities related to food and nutrition, or graduate/professional programs.

Students who plan to become registered dietitians must apply to the DPD according to specified criteria. There is no difference in the required courses; however, only those students who are accepted into the DPD will receive a Verification Statement, which is needed to enter into a dietetic internship.

Students must take a minimum 20 credits from the Nutrition Studies sub-plan. Students who choose this sub-plan will take a minimum of 75 credits for the Nutrition major.

Nutrition major students who do not select either the DPD or nutritional science sub-plan may utilize the remainder of the 120 credits needed to graduate by specializing in an area of their choosing. Specialization can include regulatory nutrition, entrepreneurial nutrition, health/wellness/medicine, nutrition communications, and existing minor. Contact your academic advisor to discuss recommended course options.

Students must take a minimum 29 credits from the Nutritional Science sub-plan. Students who choose this sub-plan will take a minimum of 84 credits for the Nutrition major.

The nutritional science option is for students planning to do graduate work in nutrition, related sciences, or professional programs such as medicine or dentistry.