Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences

The overall health and well-being of both humans and animals is strongly influenced by diet. The Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences (IGPNS) integrates information from across 10 disciplines to give students a well-rounded understanding of nutrition and its application; providing the structure for coordinating and enhancing interdisciplinary nutrition research and graduate education. Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Nutritional Sciences are offered with three specializations:

  • Animal nutrition
  • Human nutrition
  • Molecular/biochemical nutrition

General Requirements

There are specific minimum course work requirements for each degree. Each student is required to consult with his or her advisor or major professor every term prior to registration for course work. Course work for the degree program requires approval of the Program of Study (POS) Committee, the IGPNS director of graduate education (DOGE), and the ISU Graduate College as filed with the POS plan.

The Program of Study (POS) Committee

The POS Committee is chosen by the graduate student and the major professor and is approved by the DOGE (director of graduate education). This committee directs the types and number of courses taken. The agreed contract is called the program of study (POS). Depending on your specialization, the POS Committee may also provide direction for course selection.

Peace Corps Coverdell Fellowship

Coverdell Fellows that join our graduate program will engage with faculty on research and service projects that synergize their experiences, coursework and research. Degrees Awarded: Master of Science (M.S.) Admissions Deadlines: October 1 and February 1 Program Start: Typically start of fall semester, but students may enroll at the start of spring or summer semesters. The application form, GRE exams, 3 letters of reference and official transcripts must be provided. Applications are screened by the IGPNS admissions committee for quality of previous education, GRE scores and compatibility with faculty research interests. 

More information is available on the Peace Corps website.

Graduate Minor in Nutritional Sciences

Nutritional sciences graduate minor students must complete the following curriculum:

  • 9 to 12 credits are required. Students who have not taken FSHN 360 or its equivalent (advanced nutrition with a biochemistry prerequisite) will need to take FSHN 360, in which case the Nutrition Graduate minor will constitute 12 credits. 
  • 9 credits of graduate-level nutrition courses as approved by the POS Committee.

Need More Information?

Brenda Emery

220 Mackay Hall
2302 Osborn Drive
Ames, IA 50011-1078

515-294-6442

fshngraduate@iastate.edu