Nutrition and Exercise Sciences (Ph.D.)

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Program Coordinator/Contact
Matthew Vukovich, Department Head
Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences
Intramural Building 116, Box 2203
605-688-4668
E-mail: matt.vukovich@sdstate.edu
http://www.sdstate.edu/hns/graduate-programs/

Program Information
The Ph.D. in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences will prepare graduates for careers as researchers in healthcare settings, government, industry, corporations, and universities. The research and teaching emphasizes molecular and biochemical nutrition, nutrigenomics, epidemiology, nutrition issues in developing countries, obesity prevention and behavior nutrition.

Course Delivery Format
The program consists of lecture, laboratory, experiential learning opportunities and research.

Courseload Information
Students enrolled in six or more state-supported credits within a given semester will be charged the current special discipline fee.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities
The Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences aims to provide premier academic programs and high-quality services to students. A limited number of research and teaching assistantships and scholarships may be available to qualified graduate students.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Doctor of Philosophy

60 Credit Plan

Core Requirements

GSR 601 - Research Regulations Compliance Credits: 1
HNS 790 - Seminar Credits: 1 (3 credits required)
NUTR 702 - Macronutrients in Human Nutrition Credits: 3
NUTR 760 - Vitamins and Minerals in Human Nutrition Credits: 3
Advanced Research Methods
Course Advanced Statistics Course

Additional Admissions Requirements

GRE: Required
TOEFL: required score of 550 paper-based, 79-80 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.0

Letter of application stating to include the following: primary area of interest (nutrition, food science, etc); desired research focus; long-term goals outlining career goals; interest in assistantship (teaching or research); reason(s) for attending graduate school; current professional certifications and credentials; an interview (in person or via phone) is highly encouraged but not required.

Entering students for the Ph.D. degree will usually have a Master’s degree in dietetics, exercise science, nutrition, biology, chemistry, epidemiology, or other related field from an approved accredited institution. In those cases where applicants do not have a Master’s degree, departmental requirements will apply, either requiring completion of a Master’s degree or permitting an individual to move directly into a doctoral program.

Prerequisites for Ph.D. degree include Master’s degree in a health related field (nutrition, dietetics, exercise physiology, public health, etc), NUTR 422/522 or equivalent, STAT 541 or equivalent, or biochemistry.

General Requirements

Graduate students must consult with their advisor before registering for graduate work.

For additional information refer to the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .