Program: Nutrition and Exercise Sciences (M.S.) - Nutritional Sciences Specialization - South Dakota State University

2021-2022 Graduate Catalog

Apr 06, 2025

Program Coordinator/Contact

Elizabeth Droke, Associate Professor
School of Health and Consumer Sciences
Wagner Hall 433, Box 2275A
605-688-5150

Program Information

The M.S. in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences provides an opportunity to specialize in Nutritional Sciences or Exercise Science. Students are prepared for careers in clinical, industry, or research fields. A partial list includes clinical dietitians, public health nutritionists, research dietitians, clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, research assistants or coordinators, instructors, or public health officials.

Student Learning Outcomes

Apply foundational knowledge and skills in the theory and application of nutrition and exercise sciences to professional practice, education, and research.
Develop effective written and oral communication skills.
Critically analyze and synthesize scientific evidence to defend a position.
Demonstrate effective career preparedness.

Course Load Information

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

Course Delivery Format

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

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The School of Health and Consumer 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

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	32 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

EXS 750 - Advanced Exercise Physiology Credits: 3
HNS 708 - Applied Research and Evidence Based Analysis Credits: 3
HNS 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1
NUTR 725 - Nutrition and Human Performance Credits: 3
NUTR Electives Credits: 9

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

HNS 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5 credits required)
Electives Credits: 8

Option B - Research/Design Paper

HNS 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-7 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 10

Option C - Coursework Only

HNS 794 - Internship (COM) Credits: 1-7 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 13

Total Required Credits: 32 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)

Additional Admissions Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: required score of 550 paper-based, 79-80 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110

Letter of application stating to include the following: primary area of interest (dietetics, nutrition, etc.); desired research focus; long-term goals outlining career goals; interest in assistantship (teaching nutrition 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.

Master’s Nutrition and Exercise Sciences Admission Requirements

Entering students for the Master’s degree will be required to have a Bachelor’s degree in dietetics, exercise science, nutrition, biology, chemistry, epidemiology, or other related field from an accredited institution. Students with other educational backgrounds may be admitted conditionally. They will be required to complete the necessary coursework to eliminate deficiencies in their background during their first semester in the program.

Pre-requisites for the Master’s degree include STAT 281 or equivalent, NUTR 315, CHEM 106/108 or CHEM 112/114 or equivalent, BIOL 221, BIOL 325, and EXS 350 or equivalent for students in the Exercise Science Specialization.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .