PhD in Nutrition and Dietetics in USA: Top Colleges, Fees, Scholarships, Scope

Just picture the influence of an American university on your resume! Isn’t it wonderful?

Studying in USA offers more than education. It enhances fluency in English, provides a global perspective, and lets you innovate your learning. It further adds to your advantage if you pursue a degree in a thriving field like nutrition and dietetics, where jobs are projected to grow by 11% (2018-2028) according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Therefore, embarking on a journey to pursue a PhD in nutrition and Dietetics in the USA unveils an exceptional prospect for international scholars. This article serves as your gateway, offering an enticing glimpse into this avenue while delving into prerequisites, premier curriculum frameworks, eminent institutions, and the vast horizons of opportunity that await.

What is PhD in Nutrition and Dietetics?

A PhD in Nutrition and Dietetics is a 3-year doctoral program, requiring candidates to hold a Master’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics or an equivalent qualification from an accredited institution. This program delves into the science of nutrition, dietetics, and their various aspects such as dietary management, health promotion, research methodologies, and clinical applications. With a strong focus on both advanced practices and foundational principles, it equips candidates to explore innovative strategies and contribute to the evolving field.

Why Pursue PhD In Nutrition And Dietetics In USA?

• Booming Job Market: Nutrition and Dietetics professionals are in high demand in the USA, playing a crucial role in healthcare and wellness.
• Elevated Credentials: As of 2024, a master’s degree will be the minimum requirement to become a Registered Dietitian (RD), enhancing career prospects.
• Integrated Internships: US universities often provide avenues for dietetic internships, a crucial step towards becoming a registered dietitian, streamlining the process for students.
• Research and Innovation: Access to cutting-edge research and advancements in nutrition science equips students with the latest industry knowledge.
• Networking Opportunities: Studying in the USA allows students to connect with renowned faculty, fellow scholars, and professionals, fostering valuable networks.
• Holistic Education: The US education system emphasizes a well-rounded learning experience, enhancing critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Global Impact: Graduates from US dietetics and nutrition programs are well-prepared to contribute to the global health and wellness landscape.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility requirements for a PhD in Nutrition and Dietetics in the USA can differ across universities. Here is a broad outline of the typical criteria students need to meet to pursue this program:

• Completion of undergraduate and master’s degrees
• One prior degree in nutrition and dietetics
• Overall GPA > 3.5 in at least one prior academic degree program
• International students from non-English speaking countries need to submit IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores to demonstrate English proficiency
• Depending on the university, you might need to submit GRE or GMAT scores
• Certain institutions might have their own entrance exams, and a personal interview could be part of the selection process after meeting the eligibility criteria

Also Read: Study in USA for Indian students

Documents Required

• English Proficiency scores IELTS, TOFEL.
• Academic Transcripts
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• Resume/CV
• Cover letter
• Two references
• If you are applying to research your own project, then you will also need a strong research proposal complete with a timeline and methodology

Also Read: What are the requirements to study in USA

Best Universities for PhD in Nutrition and Dietetics In USA

Explore these premier institutions renowned for their PhD programs in Nutrition and Dietetics in the USA.

UNIVERSITY	QS Ranking 2023	Program offered	Total tuition fees
Cornell University	20	PhD in Nutrition Sciences	$20,800
Johns Hopkins University	24	Doctor of Philosophy in International Health – Human Nutrition	$62,850
University of Michigan	25	Doctor of Philosophy in human nutrition	$79,288.38
University of Wisconsin	83	Doctor of Philosophy in nutritional sciences	$25,577
University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	85	Doctor of Philosophy in Nutritional Sciences	$29,034
University of California – Davis	102	Doctor of Philosophy in Nutrition Sciences	$26,802
Ohio State University	140	PhD in Nutritional Sciences	​​$38,376
Purdue University – West Lafayette	129	Doctor of Philosophy in Nutrition – Human and Clinical Nutrition	$31,104.
Case Western Reserve University	176	PhD in Nutrition Sciences	$58,903
North Carolina State University at Raleigh	312	Ph.D. in Nutrition Sciences	$30,906
Washington State University	443	Doctor of Philosophy in Nutrition & Exercise Physiology	$31,530

Scholarships Available

• Fullbright Scholarship
• International Student Awards
• Global Excellence Awards
• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation Scholarship
• Various Foundation Scholarships
• Ohio State Medical Dietetics Scholarships

Career Scope

Global market insights dictate that the U.S. Clinical Nutrition Market size was over USD 12 billion in 2022 and will grow at over 9% CAGR from 2023 to 2032, driven by the increasing incidence of chronic diseases and metabolic diseases in the U.S.

Hence, career opportunities following the study of nutrition and dietetics encompass a range of fields, including:

• Public Health Nutrition
• Nutrition Policy Development
• Involvement in Government Lobby Groups
• Roles within the Health and Fitness Sector
• Research and Development in Nutrition
• Health Promotion Initiatives
• Focus on Community Health
• Roles in Education and Research
• Participation in Food Manufacturing

Also Read: Computational Biology: Courses, Universities & Scope

Job Opportunities 

One can expect to work in the following jobs after this program:

Job Title	Range	Average
Clinical Dietitian	$44,000 – $65000	$52,975
Registered Dietitian	$45,000- $68,000	$54,806
Dietitian	$44,000 – $69,000	$55,136
Director Food and Nutrition Services	$50,000 – $101,000	$72,331
Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)	$53,000 – $85,000	$67,706
Health Coach	$42,000 – $70,000	$54,322
Clinical Nutrition Manager	$51,000 – $82,000	$64,661
Food Service Manager	$38,000- $69,000	$52,196
Renal Dietitian	$54,000 – $81,000	$66,817
Nutrition Services Director	$46,000 – $77,000	$61,414
Healthcare Consultant	$46,000- $86,000	$63,348

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