NSU launches Master of Science in Nutrition degree program

Nova Southeastern University's (NSU) College of Osteopathic Medicine has launched a Master of Science in Nutrition degree program, adding to the university's vast array of health care degree options. The program is the first in Florida to offer this degree in a primarily online course format.

The new program offers two tracks, one focused on sports nutrition and the other on community nutrition. The degree will prepare students for a variety of in-demand career options, including health/lifestyle coach, health center nutritionist, corporate/employee wellness consultant, private health consultant, college instructor and research nutritionist. The degree could also provide a necessary background for graduates to pursue clinical training to become a registered dietitian with additional coursework and required clinical hours.

"Nutritionists and dietitians enjoy a job growth rate that is faster than other health care disciplines, and the outlook for the coming years is very promising," said Cecilia Rokusek, Ed.D., M.Sc., RDN, assistant dean of research and innovation and nutrition degree director, NSU's College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Dietitians and nutritionists held 67,400 jobs in 2012, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment is expected to increase by 21 percent to 81,600 between 2012 and 2022. This is likely due to a result of a heightened emphasis on wellness, prevention of disease through better food choices and dietary habits, and greater integration of nutrition in primary care. The need for nutrition professionals has also risen as a result of required wellness checks and emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention under the Patient Protection and Affordability Care Act.

The Bureau's website also states, "Dietitians and nutritionists who have earned advanced degrees or certification in a specialty area may enjoy better job prospects."

"Even beyond traditional settings of schools and hospitals, nutritionists are finding meaningful work in corporations, athletic departments and food production centers," said Rokusek. "An aging population and increasing attention to diet for all age groups is creating high demand, and managing disease and chronic illness continue to be challenges that need attentive professionals."

In addition to those looking to pursue a career as a nutritionist, this new degree is an ideal complement for other professionals, including physicians, dentists, pharmacists and optometrists, to complete to enhance their practices.

NSU's M.S. in Nutrition degree program requires 42 credits for completion, including a research project. Full-time students (nine credits per semester) will be able to complete the program in two years. The program also accepts part-time students.