Bridge to Master’s of Nutrition and Dietetics Program
The bridge to the Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics program is designed to equip you with the undergraduate coursework that fulfills the prerequisite requirements for the master’s in nutrition and dietetics program. This program allows students who may not have a background in nutrition or related fields the opportunity to gain the foundational mathematical and scientific knowledge and skills needed to be eligible to apply for admission into advanced studies.
Develop a Foundation of Basic Nutrition Theory
Our bridge to nutrition and dietetics pathway consists of an array of specific courses that can help you gain important elements related to nutrition and dietetics. Course topics you will cover in the pathway include:
- Algebra
- Microbiology
- Human anatomy and physiology
- General and organic chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Applied nutrition
Begin Your Dietitian Career Path at GCU
Our master’s in dietetics and nutrition bridge program teaches you critical skills and competence in various math and science disciplines that can help you not only in the master’s program, but in your career down the road. After completing the bridge courses, offered by the College of Natural Sciences, you may be eligible to enroll in our MS nutrition and dietetics program. Graduates of our master’s program may go on to pursue careers in the field, such as the role of a dietitian or nutritionist.
Loading Form
Study Nutrition at an Accredited University
GCU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968, reflecting our commitment to providing quality education to all students. Our dedication to academic excellence and the student experience continues to drive our programs and initiatives.
Nutrition and Dietetics Bridge FAQs
Explore our frequently asked questions to gain more insight into this bridge option and help you determine if it's right for you.
Yes, dietitians need a degree in nutrition, dietetics or a related discipline to enter this career. Additional credentialing may also be required for certain positions, and a graduate degree may be required to pursue those credentials.1 However, not all states require nutritionists to be licensed.2 According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), Arizona is among the states that do not require formal certification, licensure or occupational regulation for nutritionists.2
Preparing and reviewing the requirements for this career path can be beneficial as you plan to pursue it. This path usually begins with earning a bachelor's degree in dietetics or a related field, followed by a master’s degree to gain practical experience and prepare for the credentialing exam. If your bachelor’s degree is in a field other than nutrition or dietetics, you’ll need to pursue a master’s degree in dietetics. Although the coursework can be challenging and covers a range of complex topics, this career can be rewarding, especially if you want to help others understand and improve their health.
If you’re passionate about health, wellness and how our bodies relate to the two, studying nutrition and dietetics might be a good option for you. Through working in this field, you have the opportunity to help people improve their health. You also can gain knowledge that can benefit your life as well. You can make an impact in your community by promoting healthy habits and being a source of education to help support healthier lifestyles and individual health goals for those around you.
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Online: $485 per credit
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Cost of Attendance
1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). How To Become a Dietitian or Nutritionist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Oct. 28, 2024.
2 Nutrition ED. (n.d.). Nutritionist Career Overview. Retrieved Nov. 10, 2024.
Prepare for advanced nutrition and dietetics studies.
Core Courses
Course Description
The course covers mathematics that matter in modern society. Key areas of focus include financial literacy, numerically-based decision making, growth, scale, and numerical applications. The course applies basic college-level mathematics to real-life problems and is appropriate for students whose majors do not require college algebra or higher.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the principles and applications of microbiology and a study of the general characteristics of microorganisms, their activities, and their relationship to humans. Students develop understanding of microbial cell structure and function, microbial genetics, related pathologies, immunity, and other selected applied areas. Co-requisite: BIO-205L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of BIO-205 supports further learning surrounding principles gained in the lecture course. Students develop fundamental skills in microbiological laboratory techniques, microscopy methodologies, and the isolation and identification of pathogenic microorganisms. Co-requisite: BIO-205.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the principles of chemistry, including chemical and physical properties of elements and compounds and chemical reactions. As an introduction to organic chemistry, this course also emphasizes molecular structure as it relates to function. Co-Requisite: CHM-110L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of General and Organic Chemistry reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Co-Requisite: CHM-110.
Course Description
An introduction to the principles of chemistry, including chemical and physical properties of elements and compounds and chemical reactions. As an introduction to organic chemistry, this course also emphasizes molecular structure. Prerequisite: CHM-110. Co-Requisite: CHM-111L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of General and Organic Chemistry reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Prerequisite: CHM-110L. Co-Requisite: CHM-111.
Course Description
This course is the first in a two-course sequence examining the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. This portion includes the study of cells; tissues; genetics; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Co-Requisite: BIO-201L.
Course Description
This course is a systematic study of human gross anatomy and function. Topics include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Co-Requisite: BIO-201.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the properties, structure, function, thermodynamics, and basic genetics of macromolecules, including proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids. The course also covers how living systems synthesize and utilize these macromolecules and how that relates to energy production and use. Prerequisites: CHM-111 and CHM-111L, or CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-Requisite: CHM-350L.
Course Description
This laboratory course introduces techniques for analyzing macromolecules including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. It also explores basic biochemical pathways utilized by living systems that enable cellular function. Prerequisites: CHM-111 and CHM-111L, or CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-Requisite: CHM-350.
Course Description
This course is the second in a two-course sequence examining the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. This portion includes the study of immunity; metabolism; energetics; fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance; and the endocrine, hematologic, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: BIO-201 and BIO-201L. Co-Requisite: BIO-202L.
Course Description
This course is a systematic study of human gross anatomy and function. Topics include the endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: BIO-201 and BIO-201L. Co-Requisite: BIO-202.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course provides a foundation of basic nutrition theory, with a focus on assessment, food components, exercise, nutrition, weight control, community programs, and resources. Application of these aspects is used to promote health and prevent illness.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.