Bachelor of Human Nutrition at The Ohio State University
The Human Nutrition is a Bachelor degree offered by The Ohio State University on the Columbus campus in United States of America. The program is delivered on campus as a Full Time course in English and requires approximately 4 years to complete. Students study at the Columbus campus while gaining the knowledge and practical experience expected for this area of study. The next intake is available from August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Human Nutrition
Human Nutrition
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
College: Education and Human Ecology
Human nutrition is an integrated discipline focused on the role of diet in the prevention and treatment of disease. The human nutrition program is committed to the discovery of new information about the relationships between diet, physical activity, health and disease, and the application of such knowledge to individuals, communities and entire populations.
Three specializations
Dietetics prepares students to translate the scientific principles of food and nutrition into healthy eating practices for various populations. This Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) and meets the knowledge requirements specified by the AND for students interested in becoming registered dietitians (RD). Following the bachelor’s degree students complete a supervised practice program (dietetic internship) and then sit for the exam to become an RD.
Nutrition sciences provides a strong science foundation with course work in chemistry, biochemistry, physiology and molecular genetics. Students gain professional experience through a supervised internship with an approved professional. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects with faculty and/or engage in other professional training activities. This specialization prepares students for admission to medical, dental, optometry and pharmacy schools, as well as graduate programs in nutrition, biomedical sciences and public health.
Nutrition in industry prepares students for careers in the development, marketing, advertisement and sales of food and health products. In addition to the core nutrition courses, students will complete a general business minor through the Fisher College of Business. Graduates may be employed by pharmaceutical companies, regulatory agencies or nutrition product development teams.
Get started
Upon admission to the university, students directly enroll as human nutrition pre-majors.
Before applying to or enrolling in the major, students must complete the following prerequisites:
- Fifteen semester credit hours at Ohio State
- English 1110
- Mathematics 1148, 1130 or higher
- Biology 1113
- Chemistry 1210 and 1220
The dietetics option is a competitive specialization. Before applying, students must complete the prerequisites (above). To apply to the dietetics option, students submit a biographical statement about career goals and nutrition-related work and/or volunteer experience. They should have at minimum a 2.75 GPA; however, since the enrollment in dietetics is limited by the faculty and resources available, students should have a 3.0 or higher GPA to be competitive.
Both the nutrition science and nutrition in industry specializations are noncompetitive options. Students with a 2.75 GPA are automatically enrolled into the major after completing the prerequisites (above).
Curriculum
All students in human nutrition complete course work in the fundamentals of human nutrition, food in different cultures, nutrition education, nutrition across the life cycle, issues and controversies in nutrition, advanced human nutrition, and nutrition careers as well as foundational courses in anatomy, biochemistry, biology, chemistry, microbiology and physiology. Additional required course work is based on the student’s specialization.
Dietetics requires course work in the fundamentals of food, the principles of food production, cost management in food service, food service sanitation and safety, community nutrition, human metabolism, physical and nutritional assessment, and human resources management.
The curriculum for nutrition sciences is rigorous and provides a solid foundation in physical and biological sciences with a strong emphasis on human nutrition. Students have opportunities to engage in undergraduate research, as well as a required internship that relates to a possible career of interest.
Nutrition in industry requires additional nutrition course work in food service sanitation and safety, food processing, sensory evaluation of foods, and food regulations as well as consumer problems and macroeconomics. Students also complete a general business minor, which includes one course from each of the five primary business functions: accounting, finance, human resources management, marketing and operations management. Students also have several additional business, nutrition, and consumer-focused courses from which to choose to meet additional degree requirements.
Internship
The world-class Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center offers students numerous employment opportunities in health care. Students can also participate in internships with businesses and community and government agencies to gain professional experience outside of Ohio State.
Research
Students can assist faculty in current research projects or design their own unique study under the expert guidance of human nutrition faculty. Human nutrition majors can also learn about community nutrition and the health status of people in other countries through international service-learning trips that increase global awareness and intercultural understanding.
Student organizations
Food and Nutrition Forum is a student organization that unites professionals from allied disciplines who are committed to promoting professionalism in nutrition and health care.
Possible careers
Diverse career options in the nutrition field are available for students in all three program specializations.
Dietetics graduates are prepared for careers in clinical dietetics, community nutrition, nutrition counseling and therapy, sports nutrition, and food service management. Typical work settings for dietetics graduates include hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, food service, food and nutrition-related businesses, and fitness/wellness centers.
Graduates of the nutrition sciences specialization are prepared to enter professional programs or a career in research. Prerequisites for admission to medical school or dental school are included in this specialization’s requirements, so students are well prepared for graduate/professional school admissions upon completion of the program.
Graduates of the nutrition in industry specialization are competitive for positions in customer relations, consumer protection and education, government policy/regulation/lobbying, public relations for industry and commodity food groups, nutrition product development, nutrition marketing, and pharmaceutical, food and equipment sales.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Human Nutrition at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Human Nutrition at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Human Nutrition at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus