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Department of Nutritional Sciences
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Frequently Asked Questions


Will my Nutritional Sciences/Natural Science major prepare me for medical school?

If you are considering a career in medicine, find out the requirements of individual schools to which you will apply. Consult school bulletins, attend admissions seminars, and examine web sites. You will find that the basic "pre-med" curriculum consists of one year of biology, two years of chemistry, including courses in organic chemistry and biochemistry, a course in mathematics, and a course in physics. These requirements are all met in the Nutritional Sciences/Natural Science degree.  In addition, the advanced coursework you'll take in physiology, genetics, and other sciences will further prepare you for medical school.


Will my Nutritional Sciences/Natural Science major prepare me for other health-related professional programs?

This degree program also provides excellent preparation for veterinary medicine, physician assistant (PA) and other programs.


What are the admission and course requirements?

Students matriculate through the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS). Enrollment in the major is unrestricted. However, students must meet the University and College/School criteria for a student in good standing. These are described in the Undergraduate Catalog.  Course requirements are described on our Required Courses webpage.


Are there any specific costs while enrolled?

There are no specific fees associated with the Nutritional Sciences/Natural Science BS degree. The Office of the Registrar Page lists per credit costs for a resident or nonresident undergraduate.


Can I study abroad?

Studying abroad can be a great experience during your undergraduate career.  However, to study abroad for a semester or more and still graduate in four years requires careful planning.  See your advisor for assistance in planning for a study abroad experience.


How do I find a faculty member with whom I can do research?

Review the nutritional sciences departmental and graduate faculty web pages. Once you identify labs in which you'd like to work, contact those professors directly by telephone or email and ask them if you could meet with them in person to determine whether they would consider taking you into their laboratory. If possible, talk with several professors so you can make comparisons and achieve the best match to your interests. Circumstances in each laboratory constantly change and some professors might not be in a position to take you. If a faculty member declines, you should keep looking. This campus has a large number of laboratories and if you are persistent, you should be able to find an appropriate fit.


How do I get into the Honors Program?

Please read the information provided here.