University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, practical training and independent research to build skills in nutritional science, assessment and policy. Core topics typically include nutritional biochemistry and metabolism, lifespan nutrition, community and public health nutrition, nutritional epidemiology, research design and statistics, and food systems. Students can expect modules on topics such as clinical nutrition and medical nutrition therapy, nutrition education and behaviour change, food safety and functional foods, and cultural dimensions of diet and health.

Programme structure is flexible and commonly offered with thesis and non‑thesis options. Thesis students undertake a supervised research project culminating in a dissertation, while non‑thesis students complete additional coursework and a practicum or capstone project. Many students also undertake practicum placements or internships with local health agencies, hospitals, community organisations or food industry partners across the Hawaiian Islands, enabling practical experience in community assessment, programme delivery and applied research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree, ideally in nutrition, food science, biology, public health, or a closely related discipline. Admissions assess academic preparation in foundational areas such as human biology, introductory nutrition, chemistry and statistics. A competitive academic record, letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining research or professional goals, and a curriculum vitae are typically required.

Some applicants may be expected to demonstrate prior coursework or complete prerequisite units if their undergraduate degree did not include core science or nutrition courses. International applicants must meet the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s English language proficiency requirements. Specific application materials and any standardised test policies are available from the department and graduate admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers across health, research, government and industry. Common pathways include roles as public health nutritionists, community nutrition programme coordinators, research assistants or scientists in academic and government research, and positions in the food and nutrition industry such as product development, quality assurance or regulatory affairs. Those aiming for clinical dietetics typically use the master’s as preparation for accredited dietetic internships or postgraduate credentialing required for registration.

Other opportunities include policy and advocacy work with government or non‑profit organisations, health promotion and education roles, consultancy in food and nutrition, and progression to doctoral study for careers in academia or advanced research.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa offers a distinctive setting for nutrition studies, with strengths in research and practice that address the health needs of Pacific and Asian populations and island communities. The programme benefits from connections with the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources and local health agencies, providing access to applied research on food systems, culturally informed nutrition interventions and chronic disease prevention.

Studying at Mānoa also gives students practical exposure to diverse food environments and community settings across the Hawaiian Islands, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, and faculty expertise in areas such as nutritional epidemiology, indigenous food sovereignty and public health nutrition. These features make the programme particularly suitable for students interested in culturally relevant nutrition practice and applied research in multiethnic, island contexts.