University of Oregon

What you'll study

This programme builds advanced competency in medical nutrition therapy, clinical assessment, and population-based nutrition interventions. Core coursework typically covers topics such as advanced human metabolism, pathophysiology and nutrition, clinical nutrition across the lifecycle, enteral and parenteral nutrition, and evidence-based practice in dietetics.

• Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism — deeper study of nutrient metabolism and biochemical responses to illness.
• Medical Nutrition Therapy — therapeutic approaches for conditions such as diabetes, renal disease, cardiovascular disease and oncology.
• Clinical Assessment and Nutrition Care Process — nutrition screening, assessment tools, diagnosis, intervention planning and outcome evaluation.
• Nutrition Support and Advanced Clinical Procedures — principles of enteral and parenteral support, tube-feeding management and monitoring.
• Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice — critical appraisal of clinical research, study design and data interpretation.
• Leadership, Administration and Community Nutrition — management skills, programme planning, and public health nutrition strategies.
• Supervised Clinical Practicum — extended placements in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care and community programmes that develop hands-on clinical competencies.

Programme structure normally combines taught modules with an extended supervised-practice component. Students complete clinical rotations under preceptor supervision and a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates applied competence and critical inquiry.

Entry requirements

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, typically in nutrition, dietetics, food science, biology, kinesiology, public health or a closely related field.
• Completion of foundational coursework in chemistry, biology/human physiology, and introductory nutrition or dietetics; specific prerequisites may be required if your undergraduate degree was in a different discipline.
• Academic transcripts showing strong performance in relevant science and nutrition courses; programmes generally expect applicants to demonstrate readiness for graduate-level study.
• Relevant experience such as supervised practice hours, employment or volunteer work in healthcare, community nutrition or food service is highly recommended and may strengthen an application.
• Letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the programme, and a CV/resume.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional equivalents.
• Some programmes may require an interview as part of the selection process; check with admissions for details on any additional assessments or recommended preparatory courses.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a range of clinical and leadership roles in health and nutrition. Common career paths include:

• Clinical dietitian in hospitals, outpatient clinics and specialised care units (e.g. renal, oncology, critical care)
• Community and public health nutritionist working for health departments, non-profit organisations or school systems
• Nutrition services manager or director overseeing foodservice operations and clinical nutrition departments
• Specialist roles such as paediatric nutritionist, sports nutrition consultant or geriatric nutrition specialist
• Private practice dietitian or consultant providing medical nutrition therapy and lifestyle interventions
• Research assistant, clinical researcher or doctoral study candidate in nutrition science, public health or related fields

Depending on your region, additional licensure or registration may be required to practise as a regulated dietitian; graduates often pursue credentialing or supervised-practice pathways that meet professional registration standards.

Why study at University of Oregon

The University of Oregon offers an interdisciplinary environment that brings together faculty from nutrition, exercise science, public health and clinical disciplines to support applied learning and research. Students benefit from hands-on training through supervised clinical placements with regional hospitals, community health agencies and long-term care providers, enabling real-world skill development.

Facilities that support the programme commonly include teaching kitchens, clinical simulation spaces and laboratories for metabolic and body-composition assessment. The university emphasises experiential learning, mentorship and opportunities to engage in nutrition research or community-based projects that address local and regional health needs.

Beyond academics, studying in Eugene provides access to a community that values outdoor activity, sustainable food systems and public health initiatives — a useful complement for students focused on healthy-living promotion and preventative nutrition work.