Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Program overview
Food and nutrition shape our lives, communities, and the health workforce. KU’s Bachelor of Science in Nutrition builds a strong foundation in science, connecting biochemistry, lifespan nutrition, and research literacy to real-world application and positive change. The degree is offered by the School of Professional Studies, which focuses on in-demand programs and clear, career-minded pathways for first-year students, transfer students, and working adults.
With this degree, you can:
Pursue careers in community and public health
Prepare for advanced study in prehealth and other graduate or professional programs, such as medicine, physician assistant, athletic training, and physical or occupational therapy
Continue to a Master of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition program to work toward becoming a registered dietitian (RD)
This program is an excellent fit for students who want to improve health and nutrition in the places people live and learn. Graduates find jobs in community health education, food marketing and sales, health and nutrition writing, and corporate wellness, as well as at federal programs.
At a broader level, you’ll help address the developmental, economic, social, and medical effects of malnutrition, a leading cause of death in the U.S.
A robust science curriculum with flexible electives lets you tailor the degree to your goals, whether you plan to step into a professional role after graduation or prepare for advanced study.
Program formats
Choose to study in person on the Lawrence campus or the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park, giving you access to KU’s Kansas City and regional resources, connections, and service opportunities.
With established pathways that align with workforce needs, the program is ideal for transfer students looking to earn an in-demand degree as well as freshmen just beginning their college careers.
Nutrition career outlook
With a strong foundation in how food and nutrition affect health, graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition pursue careers as nutritionists and dietitians, as well as roles in other related health fields.
Nationally, employment for dietitians and nutritionists is projected to grow faster than the average rate for all occupations. This growth reflects a rising recognition of nutrition’s role in preventing and managing chronic disease, as well as a broader focus on promoting health and wellness.
Across Kansas and the United States, career opportunities span many growing fields that serve the public, including nutrition education, public health nutrition, and sports/wellness nutrition, all areas KU’s program is well suited to support. The Kansas City metro employs a higher-than-average number of dietitians and nutritionists with its concentration of hospitals, medical facilities, and clinical research organizations.
Potential careers
Clinical or community nutritionist
Food scientist
Food service manager
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Nutrition informatics manager
Health or nutrition coach
Nutritional therapist
Program snapshot
A snapshot of overall growth and jobs available in the field of nutrition*
Degree stat
Top employers include global clinical research organizations, pharmaceutical and health care companies, federal programs, food services organizations, and educational institutions.
The World Health Organization and other authorities emphasize the growing importance of nutrition in public health, indicating that Bachelor of Science in Nutrition graduates are entering a field of increasing significance.
Top skills listed in job postings are community nutrition, dietetics, medical nutrition therapy, micronutrients, and nutrition education.
*Source: Lightcast. The career information provided is not specific to the KU programs. There is no guarantee of obtaining these positions or income levels.
