University of Western States (UWS)

What you'll study

This master's programme combines advanced coursework, supervised clinical practicum and an applied capstone or research project. Core topics cover medical nutrition therapy across the lifespan, clinical assessment and treatment planning, advanced human physiology and biochemistry as they relate to nutrition, pharmacology for nutrition professionals, and evidence-based practice methods. Students also study community and public health nutrition, foodservice systems management, nutrition counselling and behavioural change strategies, and professional issues in dietetics.

• Core modules: Medical Nutrition Therapy; Advanced Nutrition Biochemistry and Metabolism; Clinical Assessment and Nutritional Diagnostics; Pharmacology and Nutrient–Drug Interactions; Research Methods and Statistics;
• Clinical skills and practicum: Supervised clinical rotations in acute care, outpatient clinics, long-term care and specialised services (for example oncology, renal and paediatric nutrition); case-based seminars; simulation-based clinical assessments;
• Applied and professional practice: Foodservice and operations management; Community Nutrition and Program Planning; Advanced Nutrition Counselling and Interprofessional Practice;
• Capstone/research: Choice of an applied capstone project focused on clinical service development or quality improvement, or a research thesis examining a clinical nutrition question under faculty supervision.

Programme structure

The programme typically runs over one to two years of full-time study, with part-time study options available for working professionals. Coursework is followed by progressively intensive supervised practicum placements organised through UWS's clinical partners, and completion of the capstone or thesis is required for graduation.

Entry requirements

• Undergraduate degree in nutrition, dietetics, allied health or a related science; applicants with degrees in other disciplines may be considered with evidence of prerequisite coursework.
• Prerequisite science courses commonly expected include general chemistry, organic chemistry or biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology, and introductory nutrition; specific prerequisites should be confirmed with admissions guidance.
• Competitive academic record at undergraduate level; some professional or volunteer experience in health or nutrition settings is advantageous.
• Application materials typically include a personal statement, current CV or resume, and academic references; interviews may be part of the selection process.
• Evidence of ability to meet practicum requirements, such as background checks and relevant immunisations, is required prior to clinical placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for clinical and leadership roles in a variety of settings. Typical career paths include hospital or acute-care dietitian, outpatient and specialty clinic dietitian (for example renal, oncology, bariatric), long-term care and rehabilitation nutrition manager, community and public health nutritionist, and foodservice director or consultant. Graduates may also work in private practice, health coaching, industry roles such as nutrition product development and medical affairs, or continue to doctoral-level study and research. Completion of recognised supervised practice pathways and any required professional registration or licensure in the relevant jurisdiction is necessary for practice as a registered dietitian or equivalent.

Why study at University of Western States (UWS)

• UWS is specialised in health sciences and offers an interprofessional learning environment where dietetics students work alongside other allied health professionals.
• The programme emphasises applied clinical training with supervised practicum placements across a network of hospitals, clinics and community organisations in the region.
• Small cohort sizes support personalised mentorship from faculty with clinical and research experience in nutrition and dietetics.
• Facilities and learning resources include skills labs and case-based learning that prepare students for real-world clinical decision making.
• Flexible scheduling and part-time study options help accommodate working professionals seeking to advance their clinical qualifications.