University of California Davis

Overview

The Nutritional Biology program at the University of California Davis offers an interdisciplinary graduate study focused on the intricate relationships between nutrients, metabolism, health, and disease. This program emphasizes the development of research skills through a combination of coursework and hands-on mentored research, guided by faculty experts in various areas of human, clinical, and animal nutrition.

What you'll study

The program typically spans 12 months and integrates graduate-level coursework with practical research training. Course selections are tailored to align with your academic background and research interests, with offerings that may vary annually.

Typical coursework areas

• International Nutrition
• Metabolic Homeostasis
• Nutrition and Immunity
• Nutrition and Development
• Control of Food Intake

Research training (core component)

• Engage in faculty-mentored research aligned with your chosen focus, such as human or clinical nutrition, animal nutrition, chronic disease nutrition, or diet-gene interactions.
• Participate in regular academic progress activities, including seminars, research presentations, and committee reviews, tailored to your degree plan.

Capstone / thesis

• Most students are required to complete a thesis or an equivalent culminating research project, as defined by the Graduate Group and tailored to your degree plan.

Note: The specific courses, sequencing, and thesis/capstone formats will depend on your approved study plan and degree requirements.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with relevant prior coursework that meets Graduate Group prerequisites.
• Letters of recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required.
• Academic readiness: Evidence of intellectual achievement and the potential for successful graduate study.
• Standardized tests: The GRE General Test may be required.
• GPA: A minimum GPA requirement is not specified; applicants should meet UC Davis graduate admissions expectations based on their academic background.

English language requirements

• Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
• IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.

Application materials (typical)

• Online application
• Transcripts
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests
• Three letters of recommendation
• English language proficiency test scores (if applicable)
• GRE General Test scores (if applicable/required)

Career prospects

Graduates of the Nutritional Biology program are well-equipped for various career paths in academia, healthcare, public health, and industry. Opportunities may include roles in research, nutrition education, policy development, and clinical practice, reflecting the growing recognition of nutrition's role in health and disease management.