Emory University

What you'll study

The curriculum covers foundational and specialised topics to give a broad and deep understanding of nutrition science. Typical modules and themes include:

• Human and Molecular Nutrition — macronutrient and micronutrient metabolism, nutrient–gene interactions and metabolic regulation.
• Clinical Nutrition and Therapeutic Dietetics — nutrition assessment, medical nutrition therapy across disease states and evidence-based interventions.
• Nutrition Epidemiology and Public Health — study designs, surveillance, determinants of dietary patterns and population-level nutrition programmes.
• Research Methods and Biostatistics — experimental design, statistical analysis, data interpretation and scientific communication.
• Nutrition Policy and Program Planning — policy analysis, programme evaluation, food systems and community nutrition strategies.
• Applied Experience — options typically include a supervised practicum, capstone project or a research thesis under faculty mentorship.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A background in biological or health sciences (for example biology, biochemistry, physiology, public health or a related field) is strongly recommended because of the programme’s scientific content. Other common application components include:

• Official transcripts from undergraduate and any postgraduate study.
• Letters of recommendation that speak to academic potential and/or relevant professional experience.
• A personal statement outlining academic objectives, research interests and career goals.
• A current CV or résumé detailing relevant coursework, research, clinical or community experience.

Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate prerequisite coursework (for example general chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, statistics) if these were not completed during prior study. Standardised test requirements or additional materials may vary; prospective students should consult the programme’s admissions guidance for current details.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme enter a range of roles across healthcare, public health, research and industry. Typical career paths include:

• Clinical nutritionist or medical nutrition therapist working in hospitals, outpatient clinics or long‑term care settings (licensure or dietetic registration requirements vary by location and may require further supervised practice).
• Public health nutritionist or programme manager designing, implementing and evaluating community nutrition interventions.
• Research assistant, study coordinator or doctoral student pursuing nutrition science, epidemiology or translational research.
• Nutrition scientist or product development specialist within the food and beverage industry, nutrition technology companies or consultancy firms.
• Policy analyst or advocate working with governmental bodies, non‑profits or international organisations on food systems and nutrition policy.

Why study at Emory University

Emory’s programme benefits from its location within a major research university and a vibrant health ecosystem. Students gain access to interdisciplinary faculty in nutrition, epidemiology and health policy, as well as laboratory and data resources. The university’s proximity to public health institutions and numerous hospitals fosters practicum and collaborative research opportunities, while small cohort sizes support close mentoring and personalised project supervision. These factors combine to prepare graduates for applied and research-focused careers in nutrition and related fields.