Nutrition and Dietetics — B.S. and M.S.

Students desiring an M.S. degree in nutrition and dietetics who do not have a bachelor's degree may take this three-year course of study at Loma Linda University. The first two years of the curriculum offer the opportunity to complete a bachelor's degree and take the registration examination at the end of this time period in order to become an RD (registered dietitian). The student completes the master's degree during the third year—having enhanced their skills by completing additional graduate didactic courses.

Program learning outcomes

By the end of this program, the graduate should be able to:

1. Integrate scientific information and translation of research into practice;
2. Demonstrate beliefs, values, attitudes and behaviors consistent with the professional dietitian nutritionist level of practice;
3. Develop and deliver information, products and services to individuals, groups, and populations;
4. Apply principles of strategic management and systems in the provision of services to individuals and organizations;
5. Plan, process and perform nutrition-related research while protecting the public;
6. Demonstrate ability to translate evidence-based literature into formats lay public can understand, including use of videos, writing articles, and counseling;
7. Evaluate emerging trends in nutrition and give competent, evidence-based answers to the public;
8. Use metabolic pathways to determine patient and client nutritional needs.

Admission is based on a selective process.  In addition to Loma Linda University and School of Allied Health Professions admissions requirements, the applicant must also complete the following requirements:

• a 3.0 G.P.A. or above (science and non-science)
• an interview (by telephone or in person)
• program prerequisites—see course listing for B.S. degree prerequisites, including minimum units required
• a 3.0 cumulative G.P.A. at completion of undergraduate courses in order to progress to the graduate level

For total unit requirements for graduation for the B.S. degree, see Division of General Studies, LLU General Education Requirements (Section II).

Normal time to complete the program

Five (5) years — two (2) years (seven [7] academic quarters) of undergraduate work for the B.S. plus one (1) year (four [4] academic quarters) of graduate-level courses at LLU — based on full-time enrollment; part time permitted