Program Description

The online undergraduate minor in Nutritional Science aims to offer students an introduction to the area of human nutrition. In particular, students will gain a foundation of knowledge in nutrient chemistry, food systems, public health policies, nutrition education and the relationships between nutrition, health, disease and the life-cycle. A minor in Nutritional Science will benefit students who intend to pursue a career in food, health, fitness, medicine, hospitality and other health-related professions. Students need to complete 15 credit hours in this minor program, which includes two (2) foundational classes, along with a minimum of three (3) additional advanced level nutrition courses. Additionally, at least 9 hours of this minor must be non-duplicative with the course requirements of the student’s major.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to: 

1. Discuss the concepts of nutrition and its application to food composition, diet and health issues, nutritional requirements, dietary planning, menu planning and assessment.
2. Describe the consequences of macro- and micronutrient deficiencies, excesses, and identify risk factors associated with poor nutrition in individuals.
3. Describe and apply nutritional principles at each stage of the life cycle: nutritional requirements, sources, and alterations during pregnancy, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and older adulthood.
4. Examine the multiple levels of influence (i.e., psychological, community, political, and cultural) that shape food choice and eating behavior.
5. Apply food chemical principles and experimental design techniques to solve food preparation and storage problems and enhance the sensory and nutritional properties of menu items.
6. Examine processes and components associated with digestion, absorption, and metabolism of macro- and micronutrients.

This program is a part of the Wellstar College of Health and Human Services .

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Admissions, Enrollment, and Graduation Criteria

Admissions Criteria

Admission to this program is open to all students who meet Kennesaw State University’s general admission standards. Visit the Admissions  section of the Catalog for more details.

Enrollment Criteria

In addition to meeting the requirements of Academic Policy 4.0 ACADEMIC STANDING, DISMISSAL, & REINSTATEMENT , students are expected to meet the following enrollment criteria: 

• Complete all prerequisites in order to enroll in the respective course.
• Earn a grade of “C” or better in all courses for the minor.

Graduation Criteria

Each student is expected to meet the requirements outlined in Academic Policy 5.0 PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS & GRADUATION .

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Program Course Requirements