Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Sciences
About Our Program
The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Sciences degree is designed to prepare students with an interest in human nutrition to enter the healthcare field. Upon entering the major, students will complete a set amount of shared core coursework before they “specialize” within a chosen degree concentration.
Degree Concentrations
This general program allows students alternative career pathways in nutrition with a focus on the social determinants of health that do not require a dietetics credential. In addition to nutrition coursework, students will also take courses in anthropology, economics, healthcare administration, psychology, public health, and sociology.
Career Possibilities
- Nutrition Research
- Food Scientist
- Public Policy
- Community Nutrition
- Health/Nutrition Writing/Editing
- Marketing and Sales
- Healthcare Management
- Health Inspector
- Sanitation Supervisor
Additional Certifications
- Clinical
- Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)
- Community
- Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
- Certified Nutrition and Wellness Educator (CNWE)
- Food Service
- Certified Dietary Manager (CDM)
- Certified Food Protection Professional (CFPP)
- Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)
- Certified Food Service Professional (CFSP)
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification
- Quality Assurance (QA) Technician
For students who may want a nutrition-focused pathway to pursue careers, post-baccalaureate, or graduate training in medical school/physician assistant, occupational therapy, pharmacy programs, physical therapy programs, etc. In addition to nutrition coursework, students should choose specialty course electives based on the requirements for the post-baccalaureate/graduate program they wish to apply to.
Career Possibilities
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- Physician’s Assistant (PA-C)
- Pharmacist (PharmD)
- Occupational Therapist (OTR)
- Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Dentist (DDS or DMD)
This general program allows students to meet all DPD requirements as part of the pathway towards becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Nutrition and Diet Technician, Registered (NDTR). This pathway is an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), and the only eligible pathway towards becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Nutrition and Diet Technician, Registered (NDTR).
Other than MDs, RDNs are the only profession that can practice Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)while NDTRs assist RDNs in MNT management. MNT is the individualized nutrition-based treatment and prevention of chronic diseases/conditions through nutrition prescriptions. This includes nutrition assessment, nutrition diagnosis, nutrition intervention, nutrition monitoring and evaluation through specialized meal plans, behavior-based interventions, nutrition education, lab work monitoring, etc. Dietetic licensure for RDNs to practice MNT is required in most states.
Career Possibilities
- Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) in clinical, community, and food service settings
- Specialty areas of practice include: sports/tactical, diabetes, renal, geriatrics, pediatrics, lactation, nutrition support (i.e. tube feeding and IV nutrition), digestive health, oncology nutrition, obesity and weight management, etc.
- Clinical Nutrition Manager (CNM)
- Private Practice
- Media/Spokesperson/Marketing
- Retail
- Freelance Writing
- Consultant
- Blogger/Podcaster
- Nutrition and Diet Technician, Registered (NDTR) in clinical, community, and food service settings
- Dietary Aide/Technician
- Private Practice
- Media/Spokesperson/Marketing
- Freelance Writing
- Blogger/Podcaster
Additional Certifications
- Clinical
- Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)
- Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA)
- Community
- Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
- Certified Nutrition and Wellness Educator (CNWE)
- Food Service
- Certified Dietary Manager (CDM)
- Certified Food Protection Professional (CFPP)
- Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)
- Certified Food Service Professional (CFSP)
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification
- Quality Assurance (QA) Technician
Receive Guidance from Leading Experts
The Nutrition Sciences faculty at UNLV are exceptional educators and mentors who bring deep expertise, enthusiasm, and compassion to their work. They create a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and apply evidence-based practices. Known for their accessibility and genuine care for student growth, these faculty members combine academic rigor with real-world experience to prepare students for meaningful careers in nutrition and dietetics. Their dedication and passion make the Nutrition Sciences program at UNLV truly outstanding.
Experience Growth Outside the Classroom
UNLV’s Nutrition Center and Student Nutrition & Dietetics Association (SNDA) offer students enriching opportunities to explore evidence-based nutrition, gain hands-on experience, and engage with the campus and local community through education, outreach, and professional development.
Nutrition Center
The UNLV Nutrition Center, serves as a vibrant hub for evidence-based nutrition education and research for students, faculty, and the broader Las Vegas community. Through its workshops and classes, the Nutrition Center addresses critical health topics—such as preventing and managing chronic illness, debunking common nutrition myths, optimizing athletic performance, and maintaining a balanced diet on a budget.
Student Nutrition & Dietetics Association (SNDA)
The Student Nutrition & Dietetics Association (SNDA) at UNLV is a student-led organization that empowers future nutrition professionals through leadership, networking, and community service. Members engage in volunteer events, collaborate with the UNLV Nutrition Center, and connect with local nutrition organizations, gaining valuable experience and professional development.]
"My degree in Nutrition Sciences gave me more than just clinical knowledge. It shaped how I connect with patients. Through evidence-based training, hands-on experience & motivational interviewing, I learned how to meet people where they are with empathy & cultural humility. It gave me the confidence to think critically, advocate for my patients & provide care that is both scientifically sound & genuinely compassionate. As a practicing dietitian, I carry those lessons with me every day."Romina Ballesteros, B.S. Nutrition Sciences, Class of 2023; M.S. Nutrition Sciences, Class of 2026
Contact
To learn more about this degree, contact Samantha Coogan, our DPD director and undergraduate coordinator.