There are several different types of nutrition master’s degree programs. A human nutrition master’s degree program teaches wellness techniques to decrease occurrences of illness due to a poor diet. Nutritional sciences is another master’s degree program that typically provides two education tracks. Some academic institutions also offer a nutrition master’s degree program in public health to underscore the connection between community problems and poor diets. Additionally, fitness and nutrition is another master’s degree program where students can learn the fundamentals of healthy living and exercise.
Generally, nutrition master’s degree programs offer advanced academic training in several disciplines. Some disciplines may include biology, chemistry, and physiology. These programs usually provide in-depth knowledge in each discipline by relating good physical health to eating habits. Basically, discipline coursework focuses on the scientific nature of how the body processes different nutrients found in foods.
Pursuing a graduate education in human nutrition is generally for those persons interested in becoming nutritionists or counselors. Many human nutrition master’s degree programs prepare students to use therapy and assessment techniques to counsel people with nutritional issues. Human nutrition usually focuses on the relationship between dietary practices and diseases. Students may study human physiology and the connection between nutrition and disease prevention.
A master’s degree in nutritional sciences is another program that examines dietary and physical connections in two areas. Generally, one area looks at the biological processes associated with the chemical composition of the body. This portion of the degree program might prepare students to conduct research studies in ways to improve nutritional habits.
Alternatively, the second area is normally applying nutritional sciences to community and clinical practices. In this area of the program, students might have opportunities to participate in clinical research of community health and nutrition. Additional studies may also cover clinical rotations where students receive opportunities to counsel individuals.
Similarly, nutrition master’s degree programs in public health prepare students for a community nutrition career focus. With public health, students gain an understanding of the causes of nutritional deprivation within some communities. By studying techniques for identifying nutritional deficiencies, students can learn how to plan and develop policies that might change dietary and health outcomes.
Enrollment in nutrition master’s degree programs with a fitness emphasis is typically to focus on connecting exercise and dietary habits. In general, this course of study teaches how to balance food intake with a good exercise regimen. Core courses might include methods for evaluating fitness levels in different age groups, metabolism, and chronic diseases.