Undergraduate Programs in FSHN

Dietetics

Dietetics is the science of applying knowledge in food and nutrition to improving and maintaining good health. It is a vital, growing field open to creativity and opportunity, and the possibilities are vast. Learning about good nutrition and current information on eating right to live well are top priorities. Employment of dietitians is expected to grow, especially in the areas of public health, consulting, and business. Dietetics is a dynamic profession offering many different opportunities for practice. This curriculum is approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education of the American Dietetic Association and designed for those planning to become Registered Dietitians (RD). After completing this program, students will be eligible to apply to dietetic internships. This is needed to take the registration exam to be a RD.

Food Industry and Business (FIB)

The Food Industry and Business concentration is designed for students interested in integrating science, technology, business, and communications with the goal of pursuing professional and management careers in food and food-related industries. The core program is comprised of courses in natural sciences, food science, nutrition, business, and communications, and is supplemented by a 12-credit hour specialization in a recommended area, such as food quality and safety, nutrition, business, or communications. A growing public awareness of the importance of a healthful diet is causing food industry professionals to create new ways of producing healthy foods. There is increasing demand for more healthful convenience foods.

Food Science

The Food Science concentration uses the principles of science and engineering to focus on basic research, product development, quality control, processing, packaging, labeling, technical sales, and market research. The core program is comprised of courses in chemistry, biology, microbiology, engineering, physics, food science, and nutrition. The number of positions available for food science professionals is high because of the large size of the food industry (the larges in the world) and the need to ensure the quantity, quality, variety, and safety of foods. The Food Science concentration is approved by the Institute of Food Technologists.

Hospitality Management

The Hospitality Management option integrates the basic principles of business and hospitality with the goal of pursuing careers in restaurant management. Hospitality Management and prescribed Food Science and Human Nutrition coursework are supplemented by a 21-hour concentration in business through the College of Business. Hands-on experience is provided through the management of Bevier Café, Bevier Catering, and the Spice Box, as well as through the completion of practical and professional work experiences consisting of 320 hours each. This option is unique to other hospitality management programs in that it is science-based, further enhancing the students’ knowledge in the management and handling of food, as well as providing a competitive edge upon graduation.

Human Nutrition

The role of nutrition in human health and disease has received increased attention and appreciation in the past decade. The Human Nutrition option provides an excellent background for students planning to pursue M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in biological, nutritional, or food sciences; professional degrees in human or veterinary medicine, or dentistry; or degrees in other health professions (e.g. nursing, pharmacy, etc.). An understanding of human nutrition requires an in-depth knowledge of the physiological and biochemical aspects of metabolism, coupled with an awareness of the nutrient composition of foods and the role of social and economic factors as determinants of food selection.\

Placement Information

Learn more about the careers and continuing education opportunities that FSHN students pursue after Graduation.