BS in Nutritional Science Degree
BS in Nutritional Science Degree
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Students have the opportunity to develop foundational understanding across science and health disciplines, including:
This program concludes with a writing-intensive capstone course focused on ethical principles and personalized health planning. You will engage with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in the nutrition field.
This program can further provide the basis for students interested in pursuing advanced education in nutritional sciences. Students will explore topics and skills that can prepare them for pursuing graduate school programs for further specialization.
Common career paths for graduates may include positions such as dietitians and nutritionists. Professionals in this field have the opportunity to help others make personal lifestyle choices that can improve their quality of life and influence how others can achieve goals specific to their health.
Here are some of the key responsibilities a nutritional science professional may carry out in their role:1
Assessing clients’ nutrition and health needs
Promoting healthy lifestyles
Providing nutrition counseling
Managing food services
Contributing to wellness programs
Developing meal and nutrition plans
Median annual wage for dietitians and nutritionists as of May 20242
Estimated job growth for dietitians and nutritionists from 2024 to 20343
GCU remains committed to its dedication to student learning and the pursuit of continuous improvement. The university proudly carries institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting institution with a legacy dating back to 1895.
"Many of our students actively participate in on-campus research projects and routinely get the chance to showcase their findings at local and national levels."
"Many of our students actively participate in on-campus research projects and routinely get the chance to showcase their findings at local and national levels."
Join a learning environment that values collaboration, service and personal growth. At GCU, students connect with peers and faculty who share a commitment to health and wellness. Through mentorship, campus involvement and access to purpose-driven resources, you’ll be part of a community that encourages you to pursue your goals and make a positive impact.
At GCU, you can gain a biblically rooted college education. Our rigorous curriculum, nationally ranked campus according to Niche.com, philanthropic relationships and supportive community sets the GCU college experience apart.
Make your mark in preventative care and wellness — earn your bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences with GCU.
The Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences at Grand Canyon University offers a focused exploration of how food, wellness and science intersect to support healthier communities. Through coursework grounded in biology, chemistry and human nutrition, students can gain insight into how dietary choices can influence health outcomes across diverse populations.
This nutritional science degree introduces pathways that touch healthcare, fitness, education and public health. You will study how to guide individuals in making informed nutritional decisions, explore strategies for addressing chronic health challenges and examine the role of nutrition in preventative care and wellness leadership.
To help you learn more about this field and course of study, we’ve answered a few frequently asked questions about the nutritional science major.
Nutritional science is the study of how food impacts the body, mind and overall well-being. It blends biology, chemistry and behavioral science to explore how nutrients can fuel health, prevent disease and support performance. From decoding metabolism to shaping public health strategies, nutritional science can help influence the way we eat, live and thrive.
Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science degree often pursue careers as dietitians or nutritionists, working to support health through food and nutrition guidance. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, these roles are projected to grow faster than average, driven by increased interest in disease prevention and wellness.3 Professionals in these fields may work in hospitals, outpatient care centers, public health organizations or private practice, helping individuals and communities make informed dietary choices that align with their health goals.4
This degree may hold value for individuals interested in pursuing careers related to nutrition, health and wellness. It may also lead to a number of diverse career opportunities in a variety of industries, including healthcare, research and the food industry. Further, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dietitians and nutritionists had a median annual wage of $73,850 in May 2024.2
Earning a degree in nutrition can be a valuable choice toward addressing chronic health conditions like diabetes and heart disease, where diet plays a critical role in prevention and management. With about 6,200 openings for dietitians and nutritionists projected each year, on average, from 2024 to 2034,3 those looking to deepen their expertise may consider advancing through GCU’s online Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, designed to support continued growth in this evolving field.
Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
