Launch your future in nutrition. The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition at the School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering provides a strong, scientific foundation and real-world perspective to help you succeed in graduate nutrition programs, securing competitive dietetic internships and building a meaningful career, improving how people and communities experience food, health and well-being.
Why Nutrition?
As global demand for health and wellness continues to grow, skilled nutrition professionals who are grounded in both science and holistic practice are essential to lead the way. Organizations and individuals alike are looking to food and diet as their prescription for good health and a healthy workforce. Healthcare systems incorporate nutrition into treatment and rehabilitation, emphasizing its role in patient outcomes. Educational institutions at all levels use nutrition professionals to inform about their dining programs and food offerings. Nutrition professionals lead advancements in food science, food production and food service – directly impacting consumers. There is hardly an industry that isn’t impacted by the work of nutrition professionals.
Nutrition Curriculum
The B.S. in Nutrition is a comprehensive 122- to 126-hour program. The 23-hour core nutrition classes provide a deep understanding of food and nourishment on the human body at every stage of life, as well as the many applications of nutrition in communities and throughout the world. Nutrition students also complete courses in supporting disciplines, including psychology, mathematics, economics and sciences. By selecting from one of two concentrations, students of UIW’s undergraduate Nutrition program can tailor their education to support their future career goals, whether that be pursuing a graduate-level dietetic, another health professional education or entering food and nutrition industry positions.
Careers in Nutrition
Graduates of the University of the Incarnate Word's Nutrition programs have been placed in many positions related to food and nutrition, including:
- Clinical Dietitian
- Diabetes Educator
- Nonprofit Founder and CEO
- Clinical Nutrition Manager
- Director of Food and Nutrition Services
- School Dietitian
- Director of Community Outreach
- Nutrition Business Manager
- Health Coaching
- Food Scientist
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with a Dietetics and Culinary Nutrition concentration?
This program combines foundational nutrition science, accredited dietetics coursework, and hands-on culinary training. Students learn how food, culture, health and behavior intersect, preparing them for careers in dietetics, food systems, wellness, culinary nutrition or graduate study.
Key takeaways of the Dietetics and Culinary Nutrition concentration:
In addition to core nutrition science, this concentration emphasizes:
- Culinary skills and food preparation
- Food systems and foodservice operations
- Practical application of nutrition in real-world settings
- The dietetics coursework also positions qualified students for advanced education and supervised practice toward becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Does this program prepare students to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)?
Yes, this degree is part of the RDN pathway, but it is not the final step. To become an RDN, students must:
- Complete this bachelor’s degree
- Meet all requirements to earn the Didactic Program in Dietetics Verification Statement
- Complete a graduate degree (such as the MS in Nutrition)
- Complete supervised practice (through an accredited program)
- Pass the national RDN examination
What career paths are available if I do not pursue the RDN credential?
Graduates pursue careers in areas such as:
- Community and public health nutrition
- Wellness coaching and health promotion
- Culinary nutrition and food education
- Corporate wellness
- Foodservice management
Am I automatically enrolled in the Didactic Program in Dietetics if I choose this concentration?
No. Selecting the Dietetics and Culinary Nutrition concentration does not automatically place you in the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD). The concentration includes the option to complete the DPD, but students are recognized as DPD students only after they have met all DPD entrance requirements (such as required coursework and minimum GPA). There is no formal admission process. Once the requirements are fulfilled and verified, students are accepted into the DPD. The DPD Director works closely with students to track progress and confirm DPD status.
Will I gain hands-on experience in this program?
Yes. Students engage in:
- Culinary labs and applied food preparation
- Case-based nutrition coursework
- Community and experiential service opportunities
Do I need prior culinary experience to succeed in this concentration?
No. Culinary coursework is designed for students with no prior professional culinary training.