Program Overview
Master of Science in Nutrition Our Master of Science in Nutrition prepares you to advocate for health and wellness at all levels using evidence-based nutrition science. Whether your goal is to promote health locally or globally, nutrition is a powerful and universal way to make an impact. This degree prepares you for careers in community organizations, education, government, industry and non-profits. It also enhances the skills of dietitians, athletic trainers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, mental health providers, nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, physician assistants, public health and other healthcare providers seeking to enrich and transform their practice. We also offer a Certificate of Graduate Study in eating disorders and obesity and a Certificate of Graduate Study in sports nutrition .
Key Program Features
- Immersive On-Campus Experience: In-person seminars, laboratory sessions, and professional networking at Northern Illinois University.
- Expert Faculty: Taught by research-active academics and practitioners with deep expertise in Health & Medicine.
- Diverse International Cohort: Study alongside students from around the world, broadening your global professional network.
- Research-Informed Curriculum: Content grounded in the latest academic research and real-world industry practice.
- Dissertation / Capstone Project: Culminating independent project applying your expertise to an original research question or industry challenge.
- Dedicated Career Support: Access to career coaching, employer networking events, and job placement assistance.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Nutrition and Dietetics programme at Northern Illinois University develop the advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and professional networks that leading employers in health & medicine value. Common career destinations include:
- Public Health Officer: Design and implement health promotion and disease prevention programmes.
- Healthcare Manager: Oversee clinical operations and healthcare delivery systems.
- Clinical Research Coordinator: Manage clinical trials and translational research projects.
- Epidemiologist: Investigate patterns and causes of disease in populations.
- Biomedical Researcher: Advance scientific understanding of human diseases and treatments.
Graduates have secured roles at multinational corporations, government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and high-growth startups. Many also progress to doctoral (PhD) programmes.
Program Curriculum
Curriculum and Requirements
The M.S. in nutrition allows you to develop competency in planning, conducting and evaluating research, and to apply research findings for informed practice decisions. You will also collaborate with faculty to choose electives (12 credits) that align with your professional interests. You may consider earning a Certificate of Graduate Study as part of their electives.
Admission Requirements
How to Apply
The M.S. in nutrition program admits new graduate students during the fall, spring and summer semesters. International students will be admitted for fall only.
You’ll apply through the Graduate School .
- Fall admission deadline: January 15 (priority deadline) - August 1
- Spring admission deadline: December 10
- Summer admission deadline: June 1
Requirements We base admission decisions on a total profile of an applicant's qualifications; however, applicants are generally expected to meet or exceed the following requirements: Bachelor’s degree 2.75 cumulative GPA English proficiency 2.75 prerequisite GPA General chemistry (with lab) Biochemistry General or cellular biology Human anatomy and physiology (with lab) Nutrition Statistics Additional application materials include: Statement of Purpose Your statement of purpose should be between 250 and 750 words. In it, describe how you've prepared for graduate studies in nutrition, specify your primary area of interest, outline your goals for graduate school and beyond, and explain why the NIU program is the best fit for achieving these goals. Letters of Recommendation Two letters of recommendation from individuals speaking to your ability to be successful in completing a graduate-level degree program. Your recommenders should be individuals who have a professional or academic relationship with you as the applicant. Admission Review Process/Timelines The M.S. in nutrition program employs a faculty committee to review completed applications on a rolling basis. Official notification will be released by the Graduate School. Contact Nancy Prange at 815-753-6386 or nprange@niu.edu if you have questions about prerequisites.
Costs and Funding
Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students .
Assistantships
All applicants may apply for a graduate assistantship. Graduate assistantships require you to work for a faculty member for 10 to 20 hours per week assisting with teaching and/or research. Each semester, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available. Please send your completed graduate assistantship application (PDF) and current resume to SHS@niu.edu .
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
USD 700/year (international)
Costs and Funding
Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students .
Assistantships
All applicants may apply for a graduate assistantship. Graduate assistantships require you to work for a faculty member for 10 to 20 hours per week assisting with teaching and/or research. Each semester, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available. Please send your completed graduate assistantship application (PDF) and current resume to SHS@niu.edu .
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Costs and Funding
Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students .
Assistantships
All applicants may apply for a graduate assistantship. Graduate assistantships require you to work for a faculty member for 10 to 20 hours per week assisting with teaching and/or research. Each semester, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available. Please send your completed graduate assistantship application (PDF) and current resume to SHS@niu.edu .
About Northern Illinois University
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, United States
Northern Illinois University is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields....
University Profile- Language English
- Credits 60–120 ECTS (confirm with the university)