Nutrition and Exercise Sciences (Ph.D.)

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Program Coordinator/Contact

Kendra Kattelmann, Distinguished Professor and Department Head
Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences
Wagner Hall 425, Box 2275A
605-688-5161

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 public health nutrition, molecular and biochemical nutrition, epidemiology, obesity prevention and behavior nutrition, cardiovascular physiology, biomechanics, sport and exercise physiology.

Course Delivery Format

The program consists of lecture, laboratory, experiential learning opportunities and research. Some courses are delivered online.

Course Load 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

Advanced Research Methods

Credits: 3

HNS 783 - Research Methods in Health and Nutritional Sciences Credits: 3
NUTR 782 - Epidemiology Credits: 3
or other class approved by the committee

Advanced Statistics

Credits: 3

HSC 631 - Biostatistics I Credits: 3
HSC 731 - Biostatistics II Credits: 3
STAT 541 - Statistical Methods II Credits: 3
or other class approved by the committee

Other Core Requirements

EXS 750 - Advanced Exercise Physiology Credits: 3
GSR 601 - Research Regulations Compliance Credits: 1
HNS 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1
HNS 898D - Dissertation (COM) Credits: 1-12 (28 credits required)
NUTR 702 - Macronutrients in Human Nutrition Credits: 3
NUTR 760 - Vitamins and Minerals in Human Nutrition Credits: 3
Electives Credits: 15

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, exercise 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.

Two recommendations letters from professionals knowledgeable in applicants graduate school potential.

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 coursework.

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