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 Human Sciences
Wagner Hall 433, Box 2275A
605-688-5150

Program Information

The Ph.D. in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences will prepare graduates for careers in research or higher education. This can include but is not limited to occupations in universities, industry, government, and healthcare. This program emphasizes potential areas of focus in community nutrition, molecular and biomedical nutrition, sports and performance nutrition, obesity prevention and behavior, tactical health and wellness, cardiovascular physiology, biomechanics and exercise physiology.

Course Delivery Format

The program consists of lectures, laboratory, experiential learning opportunities, and research. Course delivery includes face-to-face, hybrid, or 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: Students will develop, evaluate, communicate, and disseminate research findings.
Career Preparedness: Students will possess the skills to identify and pursue diverse career opportunities aligned with their expertise and cultivate professional networks.
Grant Writing: Students will effectively identify funding opportunities and demonstrate proficiency in developing a comprehensive grant proposal that effectively articulates project objectives, justifies budgetary needs, aligns with funding agency priorities, employs appropriate research methodologies and communicates the potential impact on the target audience(s).

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: 6

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 (28-43 credits required)
NUTR 702 - Macronutrients in Human Nutrition Credits: 3
Electives Credits: 0-15

Additional Admissions Requirements

GRE: Not Required
TOEFL: 79-80 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110

Letter of application stating the following: primary area of interest within nutrition or exercise science; desired research focus faculty member; statement of career goals; interest in research assistantship; 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 applicant’s 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.

Prerequisites for Ph.D. degree include master’s degree in a health or science-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 .