Graduate Course Descriptions

Explore the current demographic trends in the U.S. and the need for culturally competent health care professionals. Investigate the research to understand how dietitians are being prepared to be effective contributors in a health care system. Reflect on cross-cultural skills, personal biases, and perspectives while recognizing the importance of culturally competent engagement as a health care professional in a diverse society.

Application of knowledge of nutrition and metabolism to the demands of physical activity and athletic performance. Covers the impact of physical activity on metabolic processes and nutrient needs, and applies this to specialized nutritional needs of active individuals throughout the life cycle. Discusses sport-specific nutrition recommendations for optimal athletic performance.

This course examines the evidence-based methods of nutrition assessment. Emphasis is placed on the six domains of nutrition assessment, highlighting the measurement and interpretation of physical examination and laboratory parameters to identify and diagnose malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies. Coursework provides students with the opportunity for practical application of these concepts in the nutrition care of individuals in clinical, community, and research settings.

Study of the biochemistry and metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats and their inter-relationships. (Prerequisites: undergraduate biochemistry, FNU 322 or equivalent, GEN 502 Methods of Research [may be taken concurrently with approval of department chair]).

Study of the metabolism and current physiological functions of vitamins and minerals and their interrelationships. Prerequisites: FNU 322 or equivalent, GEN 502 Methods of Research (may be taken concurrently with approval of department chair).

Study and identification of nutritional needs of population groups. Survey of agencies that provide nutrition services, and other available resources. Emphasis on development of community nutrition interventions.

Study of nutrition in all stages of the life cycle (pregnancy through aging) for the healthy individual.

The role of nutrition in various disease states. Physiology of organ systems and an examination of the application of therapeutic intervention in selected pathological states. Prerequisite for all students who have not completed a transcripted undergraduate course in Medical Nutrition Therapy: NED 601.

Overview of biochemistry, metabolism, physiological actions, and interrelationships of macronutrients and micronutrients. Discusses the regulation of the biochemical pathways of nutrients digestion, absorption, excretion, transport, and cellular metabolism. Study of nutritional and toxicological standards for humans and bioavailability of micronutrients. Explores the scientific methods to build foundation of nutrition knowledge and recommendations.

A one-semester independent project under faculty supervision which meets with the approval of Program Director.