The doctoral program in medical nutrition science is designed for students with a bachelor's or master's degree in nutrition (or with a degree in biological sciences that included course work in nutrition) to have the opportunity to pursue research at a world-class academic health center renowned for its research facilities. This program emphasizes course work in the core science of nutrition (integration of nutrition with biochemistry and physiology), biostatistics and research using advanced research methodology. The program is offered by the University Of Santander.
Graduates are prepared for research and leadership roles in academia, industry, government, clinical departments of academic medical centers and centers of advanced clinical practice. Program faculty conduct human nutrition research and registered dietitians are encouraged to apply; however, students enrolled in this program are not eligible to become RDs unless they have met all prerequisites of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and have completed a dietetic internship.
Academic Objectives of Program
- To graduate students capable of conducting research using appropriate research methods, ethical procedures and statistical analysis.
- To graduate students with advanced knowledge in the nutritional sciences who will contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the medical nutrition science arena.
- To graduate students who demonstrate professional attributes such as advocacy, critical thinking, flexibility, time management, and work ethic within various organization cultures.
- To enrich the scholarly and collegial culture of the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition at University of Satander.