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Master of Science in Human Nutrition

The Master of Science in Human Nutrition (MSHN) program emphasizes advanced knowledge of core nutrition principles and prepares students for advanced practice, research, and leadership roles. The focus of the MSHN is nutritional science, and the application of biochemistry, physiology, and biology principles to human nutrition in health and disease. Areas of emphasis include research and projects related to prevention or treatment of disease; nutrition in infancy, childhood, and aging; community nutrition; cardiovascular physiology; and identifying and clarifying relationships between diet and health.

The program enables students to pursue their degree through either a thesis or non-thesis option. Both options include a core of required credits in nutrition and research methods and a customized elective program that fulfills the remainder of the program credits.

Further detail on coursework for the MSHN can be found in the 2013-2014 Online Graduate Catalog: MS in Human Nutrition

Criteria for Selection

  • Minimum undergraduate cumulative index of 2.75, and 3.00 in major field;
  • A combined GRE score (Quantitative + Verbal) of 297 for tests taken on or after August 1, 2011; or 1000 for tests taken on or before July 31, 2011.
  • 3 letters of reference;
  • International students applying for a teaching assistantship must achieve a paper-based TOEFL score of at least 600 (250 or better on the computer-based TOEFL) and Test of Spoken English (TSE) score of at least 45.
  • A score of 575 or better (231 or better on the computer-based TOEFL) is required for international students who do not apply for a teaching assistantship.

Prerequisite course requirements for regular admission to the MSHNinclude:

  • physiology (one course)
  • inorganic chemistry (two courses, Chem 1 and Chem 2),
  • organic chemistry (one course)
  • biochemistry (one course)
  • a nutrition course at a level requiring a biochemistry prerequisite
  • some prerequisites may be completed during the first semester of the program, however students missing a prerequisite are classified as ‘conditionally’ accepted until the pre-requisite is complete; these students are typically not eligible for funding until the pre-requisites are complete.

Procedure for Application

Applications may be submitted online. Detailed instructions and online application forms can be found at www.udel.edu/gradoffice. Alternatively, you may submit a completed application form, test scores, 3 letters of reference, official transcripts and application fee to the Office of Graduate Studies at the University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-1501. If you have any questions, please contact the graduate coordinator, Dr. Jillian Trabulsi at (302) 831-4991.

Application Deadlines

The general university deadline for application submission is December 1 for Spring admission, July 1 for Fall admission, however, applications are considered on a rolling basis. Early submission of application is recommended, especially if you request for teaching or researching assistantships.


  • College of Health Sciences  •  Department of Behavioral Health & Nutrition  •  26 Carpenter Sports Building 
    Newark, DE 19716 •   Phone: 302-831-2079   •  Fax: 302-831-4261   •  © 2014
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