University of North Florida

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in clinical nutrition with supervised practice experiences and a culminating project or thesis. Core topics typically include advanced medical nutrition therapy, nutrition assessment and diagnostic reasoning, pathophysiology for nutrition practice, pharmacology as it relates to nutrition care, nutrition support (enteral and parenteral), specialised clinical areas (such as renal, oncology, critical care, paediatrics and geriatrics), and foodservice systems management.

Students also study research methods and evidence-based practice, biostatistics for nutrition research, public health nutrition and programme planning. The curriculum usually offers a choice between a practicum-based clinical track with extensive supervised practice rotations in hospitals and outpatient clinics, and a research or thesis track that includes a research project under faculty supervision.

Supervised practice placements are organised with local hospitals, long-term care facilities, community agencies and outpatient clinics in the Jacksonville area, giving students hands-on experience in medical nutrition therapy, nutrition screening, interdisciplinary team care, documentation and patient education. Assessment methods include clinical competencies, case studies, written assignments, exams and a final capstone project or thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics or a closely related health science field. Candidates who do not have a degree in nutrition will typically need to demonstrate completion of prerequisite coursework (for example human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, lifespan nutrition, community nutrition and introductory dietetics courses) or complete these prerequisites before enrolment.

Other common application components include an academic transcript, a current CV or résumé, a personal statement outlining professional goals and relevant experience, and letters of recommendation. Some applicants are invited to an interview. Relevant clinical or volunteer experience in nutrition or healthcare strengthens an application.

Career prospects

• Clinical dietitian roles in hospitals, rehabilitation centres and acute-care settings, providing medical nutrition therapy for conditions such as diabetes, renal disease, cancer and critical illness.
• Outpatient and community nutrition positions, including chronic disease management clinics, public health agencies and wellness programmes.
• Specialist positions in areas such as oncology nutrition, paediatric nutrition, renal nutrition, enteral and parenteral nutrition support, and bariatric care.
• Management and leadership roles in foodservice operations, nutrition programme administration and quality improvement within healthcare institutions.
• Opportunities in research, health policy, industry (food and nutrition companies) and private practice or consulting, often after obtaining further credentials and meeting registration requirements.
• Graduates who complete the required supervised practice and academic components are typically prepared to pursue credentialing or registration where applicable, enabling professional practice in clinical settings.

Why study at University of North Florida

The University of North Florida offers a supportive learning environment with access to experienced faculty who have clinical and research backgrounds in nutrition and dietetics. The programme benefits from strong clinical partnerships in the Jacksonville region, providing diverse supervised practice sites across hospitals, outpatient clinics and community agencies.

Students can expect relatively small class sizes, opportunities for interprofessional collaboration with other health disciplines, and access to campus resources that support research, simulation and professional development. The programme emphasises applied clinical skills and evidence-based practice to prepare graduates for careers in a range of healthcare settings or further academic study.