Florida International University

What you'll study

This programme covers the biological, clinical and managerial aspects of nutrition. Core scientific modules build a foundation in human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, microbiology and the fundamentals of metabolism. Nutrition-specific subjects include medical nutrition therapy, lifecycle and maternal-child nutrition, community nutrition, nutritional assessment and counselling, and foodservice systems management.

• Foundations: anatomy & physiology, chemistry for health sciences, biochemistry, human physiology.
• Nutrition science: introductory nutrition, advanced macro- and micronutrient metabolism, clinical nutrition and disease-related nutrition.
• Applied practice: nutritional assessment techniques, medical nutrition therapy, counselling and behaviour change, case-based clinical problem solving.
• Foodservice and management: foodservice systems, menu planning, food safety, procurement and operations management.
• Public and community nutrition: population nutrition, programme planning and evaluation, food security and policy.
• Research and professional development: research methods, statistics, ethics in healthcare, practicum placements and senior capstone projects.

Students complete classroom instruction alongside supervised experiential learning. Depending on pathway choices, students may take additional practicum hours or pursue post‑graduate supervised practice required for professional registration as a dietitian.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a recognised secondary-school qualification and prerequisites in biology and chemistry; background study in mathematics is also recommended. Admission looks for a competitive academic record in science subjects and relevant extracurricular or volunteer experience in health, foodservice or community settings.

• Secondary-school diploma or equivalent with strong grades in science subjects (biology and chemistry recommended).
• College-preparatory coursework in mathematics and English.
• Personal statement outlining interest in clinical nutrition and relevant experience or volunteer work.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Specific GPA expectations and prerequisite course lists are provided by the university admissions office; applicants should consult FIU for exact criteria and any programme-specific application processes.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of clinical, community and industry roles. Many alumni work in hospitals and long-term care as clinical dietitians or nutrition specialists, while others take roles in public-health programmes, school and community nutrition services, or foodservice management. Graduates who complete required postgraduate supervised practice and professional examination become registered dietitians; alternative career paths include research assistant, wellness programme coordinator, product development or regulatory roles in the food and nutrition industry.

• Clinical dietitian (following supervised practice and registration)
• Community or public-health nutritionist
• Foodservice manager or dietetic technician
• Nutrition educator, wellness and corporate health roles
• Research assistant, policy analyst, or industry nutrition specialist

Why study at Florida International University

FIU offers a curriculum that blends rigorous science with applied training in an urban, culturally diverse environment. Students benefit from clinical and community partnerships across Miami’s healthcare systems and public-health agencies, which support practicum placements and experiential learning. The university’s facilities and faculty have expertise in nutrition science, public health and foodservice operations, and there are opportunities to engage in research, community outreach and interdisciplinary projects.

Studying at FIU also provides access to career services, internship networks and local employers in healthcare and the nutrition sector, helping graduates transition into clinical roles, public-health positions or industry careers.