Students' qualifying examination and thesis advisory committees are chosen from the members of the Doctoral Subcommittee. The Institute of Human Nutrition welcomes applications for the Ph.D. program from individuals of diverse backgrounds and interests. Since the program's primary focus is upon educating those who will pursue research careers, academic accomplishments and recommendations that give evidence of strong qualifications and motivation are essential elements in successful applications for admission. An undergraduate major or concentration in nutrition, nutritional sciences, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or related academic disciplines is highly desirable. In general, applicants are expected to have earned an undergraduate degree with distinction or the M.S. or other graduate degree.
All doctoral candidates receive full support for the duration of their studies.
The principal requirements that must be satisfied for award of the Ph.D. comprise course work, laboratory research rotations, the doctoral qualifying examination, independent research, and the dissertation and its defense. In addition, applicants must fulfill the general requirements that govern all Ph.D. candidates in the University, as described in the bulletin of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Accordingly, students must complete at least 30 points of course work during this period. At least one course in biostatistics. Biochemical and Physiological Bases of Nutrition M8205 and Clinical Nutrition M8207.