Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences

What is a Nutritional Science Degree?

Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences degree program prepares students to turn a passion for health and wellness into a career with the goal to help others achieve and maintain optimal health. A bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences provides the foundation for students to develop into a nutrition, health care, fitness and education professional. By examining connections among diet, physical activity and health, students gain the knowledge and skills to promote proper food, nutrition and fitness management in the lives of others. A career path in this field leads to nutrition consulting, guidance and counseling on healthy eating and the general welfare of populations.

Students will understand and demonstrate competency in the following areas:

• Nutrition, wellness and dietetics
• Applied anatomy, physiology and health psychology
• Organic chemistry
• Fundamental microbiology and biochemistry
• Food sciences and nutrition research

Students complete the program with a writing intensive capstone course in which students integrate learning and apply areas of study such as ethics of nutritional sciences and principles. The course focuses on developing plans tailored for clients with different health issues.

Job growth for dietitians and nutritionists is expected to grow by 15% (much faster than average) between 2016-26, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. This fast-growing industry is offering increasing opportunities for individuals to lead in preventative care, disease management, making personal lifestyle choices that create a better quality of life and how others can achieve a goal specific to their health.

Why Earn Your Nutritional Science Degree at GCU?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, only 80.2 million people ages 6 and older are physically active, and only one in three adults participate in the recommended amount of physical activity each week. Nutritionally, American diets typically exceed the recommended intake levels in these categories: calories from fats and sugar, refined grains, sodium and saturated fat. Just as alarming, 2009-10 data show that over 78 million U.S. adults are obese.

A career in nutritional sciences is an opportunity to address these nationwide health issues and help people take charge of their health. Students will prepare to work with clients in choosing the right foods, engaging in regular physical activity and making health lifestyle choices.

At GCU, students learn from a values-based, faith-integrated curriculum. An emphasis on GCU’s Christian worldview develops nutritionists who make a difference by following professional and ethical practices in the human health field. GCU’s rigorous curriculum, nationally ranked campus, philanthropic relationships, small class sizes and collaborative community (from students and faculty who are experts in their field to an engaged executive leadership team and involved professional board members) also set the GCU college experience apart.

Nutritional Science Degree Requirements

Start your path toward a bachelor in nutritional science degree. To apply to the College of Science, Engineering and Technology, fill out the form located on the right. For more information about degree requirements and program qualifications, visit our admission requirements page. GCU’s Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science degree follows the standard application process.

In this program, you will take science courses, including Applied Anatomy and Physiology, General Psychology, General and Organic Chemistry, Fundamental Microbiology, plus a variety of nutrition courses. Students interested in this major should have a strong interest in science and a passion for nutrition, health and wellness.

What Can You Do with a Nutritional Science Degree?

Possible career paths include positions as a nutritionist, nutrition technician, dietitian, nutritional and health education/outreach professional, as well as medical, fitness and other health-related professionals. Because this is a greatly expanding area, students may find career opportunities in education, commercial and corporate industries, as well as government and non-profit sectors. Workplace settings may include hospitals, assisted living facilities, health care clinics/organizations and dining services environments. This program further provides the basis for students to enter graduate school programs in dietetics.