Colorado State University

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in the biological and chemical sciences and applies those principles to human nutrition, food systems and public health. Core topics typically include introductory nutrition, human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry of nutrients, nutrient metabolism, lifecycle nutrition (maternal, infant, childhood, adult and ageing), food chemistry and food safety.

• Laboratory and practical modules: food chemistry labs, nutrient analysis, sensory evaluation and food processing techniques to develop laboratory skills and hands‑on experience in food and nutrition research.
• Applied and community nutrition: courses in community nutrition, public health nutrition, nutrition education and behaviour change provide training for outreach, programme planning and evaluation.
• Research and quantitative skills: statistics for life scientists, research methods and a capstone or undergraduate research project to prepare students for independent investigation or postgraduate study.
• Professional preparation: coursework in ethics, communication, food policy and practicum placements. Students interested in becoming Registered Dietitians typically follow a sequence of prescribed science and nutrition courses and then complete supervised practice or a graduate-level dietetic internship.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a high school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in science and maths. Typical prerequisites include high school biology and chemistry; an introductory mathematics course and English or composition are normally expected. Universities may also consider related preparation such as AP/IB credits or college coursework in biology, chemistry or statistics.

• Academic profile: competitive grades in science subjects and overall academic achievement.
• Recommended subjects: biology, chemistry, maths (algebra or higher), and English.
• Additional materials: transcript(s), personal statement or application essay, and any required standardised test scores if submitted. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of completed science courses.
• For dietetics pathway: admission to the professional track or completion of specific prerequisite courses may be competitive and could require a minimum GPA and application to the school’s didactic sequence if available.

Career prospects

Graduates from Nutrition Sciences have a range of career options across healthcare, public health, food and beverage industries, research and education. Common career paths include roles as nutrition or dietetic assistants, community nutrition educators, wellness and health promotion specialists, quality and product development technicians in the food industry, and research assistants.

Those aiming to become Registered Dietitians typically complete further supervised practice (dietetic internships) and pass national credentialing examinations. Other graduates pursue postgraduate study (MSc/PhD) in nutrition, public health or food science, enter clinical or hospital nutrition services, work in corporate wellness and foodservice management, or join government and non‑profit organisations in policy and programme development.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University is a land‑grant research university with strong strengths in agricultural and life sciences and extensive hands‑on learning opportunities. Students benefit from well‑equipped food and nutrition laboratories, opportunities to work with faculty research projects and access to community engagement through Colorado State University Extension and campus outreach programmes.

• Practical experience: laboratory classes, practicum placements and internship connections with healthcare providers and the regional food industry.
• Research opportunities: access to faculty-led nutrition and food science research, undergraduate research projects and interdisciplinary collaborations within biological and health sciences.
• Location and industry links: proximity to a diverse food and health sector in Colorado provides internship and employment opportunities with hospitals, public health agencies and food companies.