Undergraduate Mission and Program Goals

Mission

The mission of the undergraduate program is to provide students with a didactic program that covers the breadth of knowledge in nutrition, from molecules to organisms to populations; provides opportunities for research; and offers practical experiences and training.

Program Goals

Upon completion of the undergraduate degree in nutritional sciences, a student will be able to demonstrate key components of content knowledge; analytical, integrative, and critical-thinking skills; and communication, interpersonal, and social skills that include:

Content Knowledge

• Demonstrate an understanding of the influence of chemical, biochemical, microbiological, and physiological disciplines as they affect food and nutrition.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the role of nutrients and food in human health, disease prevention, health promotion, and medical nutrition therapy.
• Comprehend the interrelationships between macro- and micronutrient intakes as they impact human health in normal and disease states.
• Have an appreciation for the diversity of nutrition programs that exist to disseminate food and nutrition-based guidance.

Analytical, Integrative, and Critical Thinking Skills

• Utilize critical thinking skills in the interpretation and application of research methodologies.
• Integrate biological and psychological knowledge with social and economic aspects of the environment and examine how they individually and collectively affect nutrition.
• Foster the development of skills necessary to understand, interpret, and apply nutrition research.

Communication, Interpersonal, and Social Skills

• Demonstrate technical and scientific oral and written communications skills.
• Use current and emerging technologies for information and communications to enhance the practice and delivery of nutrition information and care in a professional manner.
• Demonstrate sound personal and professional attitudes and values that foster professional responsibility and leadership skills.
• Demonstrate the readiness to deal effectively with current and future professional issues and challenges.