Nutrition and Exercise Sciences (Ph.D.)

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus

Nutrition PhD students working in a lab.

Program Coordinator/Contact

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

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 emphasize 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.

Student Learning Outcomes

Content Knowledge: Students will be able to describe the impact of nutrition on biochemical, metabolic, and physiological processes that are prevalent with physical activity and apply these concepts to various settings.
Communication skills and argument deconstruction: Students will develop, evaluate, communicate, and defend or refute a position using peer-reviewed literature.
Evidence Based Practice: Students will critically evaluate and synthesize evidence to guide decision making.
Career Preparedness: Students will construct a resume and cover letter that can be used to apply for positions upon graduation.
Students will submit two scientific manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals.

Course Load Information

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

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: 79-80 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110

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, school 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 .