Bachelor of Science in Nutrition: Dietetics Option

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Auburn University

Program Overview

At Auburn University, the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition: Dietetics Option is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in nutrition science, food science, and human health. The program prepares students to understand the relationship between diet and overall well-being while developing the knowledge and skills needed for careers in dietetics and nutrition.

Here’s how students can develop practical knowledge and professional skills during their studies:

Nutrition Science: Study the principles of nutrition and their effects on human health and disease prevention.
Food and Nutrition Studies: Explore food composition, dietary needs, and the role of nutrition in maintaining health.
Scientific Coursework: Build a foundation in biological sciences, biochemistry, and metabolism relevant to nutrition.
Research Opportunities: Develop analytical skills by exploring nutrition-related research and evidence-based practices.
Professional Preparation: Build knowledge relevant to dietetics, nutrition education, and healthcare-related careers.
Further Training: Prepare for additional academic study and supervised practice required for professional dietetics credentials.

These learning opportunities help students develop a strong scientific foundation for future careers in nutrition and dietetics. Graduates can explore opportunities in healthcare, community nutrition, food services, and public health, or continue their education to meet the requirements for becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Auburn's Dietetics Option combines scientific coursework with applied learning in food science, nutrition education, clinical nutrition, and foodservice management. Students develop practical knowledge of food preparation, nutrition counseling, and dietary needs while preparing for supervised professional practice.

Students can develop practical skills through:

• Experimental Study of Foods: NTRI 3650 introduces food science and the factors affecting food properties and quality.

• Food Systems Operations: NTRI 4560 Food Systems Operations and NTRI 4561 Food Systems Operations Lab cover foodservice systems and operational practices.

• Clinical Nutrition: NTRI 5020 Medical Nutrition I and NTRI 5030 Medical Nutrition II develop knowledge of nutrition-related conditions and medical nutrition therapy.

• Clinical Practicum: NTRI 5910 Clinical Practicum in Dietetics provides practical exposure to professional dietetics.

• Nutrition Education and Counseling: NTRI 3750 and NTRI 5760 help students develop nutrition communication and counseling skills.

• Undergraduate Research: Eligible students may explore faculty-led projects through Auburn's Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program.

• Digital Learning: Canvas supports course materials, assignments, and assessments.

• Supervised Practice: Graduates who meet eligibility requirements can pursue supervised practice through qualifying dietetic internship pathways.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The degree prepares students for further professional training and careers focused on improving health through food and nutrition. Graduates can explore opportunities in healthcare, community nutrition, wellness, foodservice, and nutrition education.

Career options: clinical dietitian, public health nutritionist, community dietitian, sports dietitian, pediatric dietitian, renal dietitian, corporate wellness dietitian, nutrition consultant, foodservice manager, menu planner, nutrition researcher, nutrition educator, school nutrition specialist, health coach, dietary manager

Students can pursue these opportunities through:

• Academic Advising: Departmental advising helps students plan coursework and monitor academic progress.

• Career Development: Auburn's career resources support career exploration, résumé preparation, interview preparation, and job searches.

• Research Opportunities: Faculty-guided projects help students strengthen analytical and research skills.

• Professional Accreditation: ACEND accreditation supports progression toward supervised practice and the RDN credential, subject to additional requirements.

• Graduate Study: Auburn offers a Master of Science in Nutrition with Dietetic Internship, combining graduate coursework and supervised practice.

• Accelerated Study: Eligible students may apply for Auburn's Nutrition Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's pathway, subject to program requirements.

• Employment and Salary Outlook: Graduates may pursue opportunities in hospitals, clinics, community organizations, schools, foodservice, and corporate wellness. Salaries depend on qualifications, experience, role, and location.

Further Academic Progression:

Graduates can pursue a Master of Science in Nutrition, a qualifying graduate dietetic internship, or related postgraduate study. Students aiming to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists must complete a qualifying graduate degree, supervised practice, and the required credentialing examination. Those interested in advanced research or teaching may consider doctoral study in nutrition or related fields.