Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme focuses on advanced clinical nutrition, assessment and management of disease-related malnutrition, and the application of evidence-based medical nutrition therapy across lifespan and care settings. Core learning areas typically include:

• Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy: management of metabolic, cardiovascular, renal, gastrointestinal, oncology and critical care nutrition issues.
• Nutrition Assessment and Intervention: comprehensive assessment techniques, body composition, nutrient analysis and personalised intervention planning.
• Clinical Pharmacology and Pathophysiology: understanding disease processes and interactions between medications and nutrition.
• Research Methods and Statistics: study design, data analysis, critical appraisal of literature and application of research to practice.
• Leadership, Policy and Health Systems: programme planning, management, quality improvement and nutrition policy in healthcare settings.
• Practicum/Clinical Rotations or Capstone: supervised clinical experiences in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care and community settings, or a research/quality improvement capstone project.

Programme delivery typically combines seminars, case-based learning, laboratory sessions and supervised clinical placements. Students build competencies in interprofessional teamwork, documentation, counselling and outcomes-based practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nutrition or a closely related field, with prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry and human nutrition. Candidates who have completed a didactic program in dietetics (DPD) or equivalent preparation are competitive.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating relevant undergraduate preparation.
• Evidence of related experience or exposure to clinical nutrition (volunteer, work or practicum placements) is advantageous.
• Personal statement outlining professional goals and reason for pursuing advanced clinical training.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé showing relevant experience.

Some applicants without a nutrition-specific undergraduate degree may be considered if they complete prescribed prerequisite courses. Programmes may also evaluate candidates for practicum placement readiness and clinical aptitude. Check the university’s admissions pages for specific documentation and any testing requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of clinical and leadership roles in nutrition and healthcare. Typical career paths include:

• Clinical dietitian positions in acute care hospitals, rehabilitation and critical care units.
• Outpatient and community-based practice focusing on chronic disease management, weight management or preventive care.
• Long-term care and geriatric nutrition management.
• Oncology, paediatrics and specialised clinical services requiring advanced assessment and intervention skills.
• Nutrition programme management, quality improvement and policy roles within health systems.
• Research assistantships, public health nutrition roles, and preparation for doctoral study or academic careers.

Many graduates pursue eligibility to complete supervised practice and sit for national registration examinations where applicable, or they use the master's to advance to leadership, education and specialist practitioner roles.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers a learning environment that combines clinical training with regional public health perspectives. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, opportunities for hands-on practice in clinical and laboratory settings, and partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare providers for supervised clinical experience.

The Flagstaff campus and surrounding region provide exposure to diverse patient populations, including rural and tribal communities, which is valuable for clinicians aiming to work in underserved settings. NAU emphasises experiential learning, interprofessional collaboration with other health disciplines, and applied research or capstone projects that link classroom learning to real-world practice.

Overall, the programme is suited to those seeking a clinically focused graduate education in nutrition that supports both advanced practice and pathways into leadership, research or specialist clinical roles.