Marywood University

What you'll study

This four-year bachelor's programme blends biological sciences, clinical nutrition and foodservice management with counselling, public health and research methods. Early years emphasise foundational coursework such as human anatomy and physiology, general and organic chemistry, introductory biochemistry, and principles of nutrition. Middle and later years focus on applied topics including medical nutrition therapy, lifecycle and community nutrition, nutrition assessment and lab interpretation, clinical pharmacology for nutrition, and foodservice systems management.

Practical learning is embedded throughout: laboratory classes in food science and metabolism, mock counselling and motivational interviewing workshops, case-based clinical seminars, and supervised practicum experiences in hospitals, long-term care facilities and community agencies. The programme typically culminates in a senior practicum or capstone project that integrates clinical case management, programme planning or an applied research study.

• Foundations: Anatomy & Physiology; General Chemistry; Introduction to Nutrition
• Science core: Biochemistry for Health Sciences; Microbiology; Human Metabolism
• Clinical focus: Medical Nutrition Therapy I & II; Nutrition Assessment; Disease-specific nutrition care
• Community and lifecycle: Maternal & Infant Nutrition; Geriatric Nutrition; Public Health Nutrition
• Professional practice: Foodservice Systems; Ethics and Law in Nutrition; Counselling and Communication Skills
• Applied experience: On-site practicums, clinical rotations, capstone or research project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a solid background in the sciences. Typical preparation includes college-preparatory biology and chemistry, and mathematics through algebra or higher. Marywood looks for academic readiness demonstrated by a competitive high-school GPA and transcripts, along with a personal statement that outlines interest in clinical nutrition.

Additional components of a strong application include letters of recommendation (often one academic and one professional), evidence of relevant volunteer, work or shadowing experience in healthcare or foodservice settings, and completion of any specified college-preparatory courses. Transfer applicants will be assessed on prior collegiate coursework; courses in biology, chemistry and statistics are commonly required for transfer admission into the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in clinical, community and foodservice settings and for further training toward professional registration as a dietitian. Common career pathways include clinical dietitian roles in hospitals and outpatient services, community and public-health nutrition positions, long-term care and rehabilitation nutrition services, and foodservice or nutrition management in institutional settings.

Many students continue to supervised practice programmes or internships required to qualify for the national registration examination and become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). Graduates also move into allied fields such as nutrition research, health promotion, industry roles (product development, nutrition communications), or pursue graduate study in nutrition, public health, or healthcare administration.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood combines a liberal-arts foundation with focused clinical training and small class sizes, allowing close interaction with faculty who have clinical and research experience. The programme emphasises hands-on learning through dedicated nutrition and food labs, simulated patient encounters and community outreach placements with regional hospitals and agencies, which support practical skill development.

The university’s student-centred approach includes advising for progression to supervised practice, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across health-related departments, and career services that help connect students with internships and employers. As a Catholic institution, Marywood also emphasises ethical practice and holistic care, preparing graduates to deliver person-centred nutrition services in diverse settings.