The specialization in human nutrition and hospitality management prepares students to pursue doctoral study and to practice dietetics at an advanced level. A student seeking eligibility to take the national examination to become a registered dietitian may apply for admission to the coordinated program in dietetics. Students specializing in human nutrition and hospitality management must complete NHM 560, NHM 561, NHM 562, and 9 hours of electives offered in the department. In addition, students must attend NHM 595 Seminar in Nutrition and Food during each semester they enroll for 6 or more hours of graduate credit, registering for this graduate seminar for a minimum of three semesters. The thesis for the human nutrition and hospitality management specialization should focus on current nutritional concerns in which the student has a special interest.
Students also have opportunities to participate in research with faculty members.
Examples of faculty research include obesity and dieting practices, maternal and infant nutrition, healthy eating patterns, nutrition education and service delivery, and nutrient analysis of foods.