Nutrition Science

Purdue University in West Lafayette

The nutrition science major provides a foundation to pursue careers that improve lives, prevent diseases, promote health and make a difference. What you eat not only has the ability to promote health, it also influences your risk of many diseases. Students who major in nutrition science develop a knowledge base in science and nutrition to understand and explore the relationship between the metabolism of what we eat and health.

Courses specific to this major emphasize the basic sciences (biology, biochemistry, chemistry), the fundamentals of nutrition, the metabolism of nutrients in health and disease and health research. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to pursue research opportunities in various areas – including cancer, muscle health, obesity, nutrient deficiencies and diabetes.

With a focus on the core sciences, nutrition and preventive health, nutrition science offers excellent preparation for students pursuing graduate and professional school – especially students wanting to become physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists and dentists. All of the pre-requisite courses for medical school are contained within the curriculum for this major.

Students may also want to double major in nutrition and dietetics or nutrition, fitness and health.

Students in nutrition science also have the opportunity to complete a five-year accelerated Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, potentially saving one full year of tuition and adding an extra year in the workforce.