Community Nutrition and Health Promotion

Community Nutrition and Health Promotion at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve health and nutrition outcomes within diverse communities. This program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from nutrition science, public health, behavioral sciences, and community engagement. Students will learn about the fundamentals of human nutrition, nutritional assessment, community-based health interventions, and strategies to promote healthy lifestyles among various populations.

Throughout their studies, students gain practical experience through internships, service-learning projects, and collaborations with local health organizations. The curriculum covers topics such as disease prevention, dietary planning for different age groups, health communication, policy development, and program planning. The program prepares graduates to work in a variety of settings, including public health agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare facilities, and community outreach programs.

In addition to technical nutritional coursework, students develop strong skills in communication, cultural competence, and program evaluation. The program also encourages involvement in research activities and community projects, fostering a proactive approach to addressing health disparities and promoting wellness at the local, regional, and national levels. Graduates of the Community Nutrition and Health Promotion program are well-equipped to pursue careers as community health educators, public health specialists, nutritionists, or to continue their education in graduate programs related to public health, nutrition, or social sciences.

The program emphasizes a holistic view of community health, recognizing the importance of social, economic, and environmental factors influencing health outcomes. Students are encouraged to develop innovative solutions tailored to community needs, emphasizing sustainability and inclusivity. Overall, this program aims to produce competent professionals committed to fostering healthier communities through evidence-based practices, effective communication, and dedicated service.

• Minimum of 90 semester hours of credit, including 12-55 hours of dissertation.
• At least one-half of the required work must be completed at the University of Nebraska after filing the Program of Studies for the Doctoral Degree.
• At least one-half of the required work, including the dissertation, must be taken in the student’s major area of study (i.e., courses having the prefix NUTR). The remaining work may be in supporting courses in the same or in related departments, or in a minor field of study outside of the major department or area.
• The student’s Supervisory Committee is not obligated to accept credits beyond the masters degree which were completed prior to the Committee’s appointment.
• Minor field of study must include at least 16 semester hours, with 6 hours in courses open exclusively to graduate students (900 level or 800 level without 400 or lower counterparts).
• Additional requirements depend on degree option selected in this program.

Sample Courses

• Advanced Clinical Nutrition
• Fundamentals of Nutrition Counseling
• Community Nutrition

• Application for Admission with $50 non-refundable application fee
• One set of transcripts uploaded to MyRED
• Minimum English proficiency: Paper TOEFL 550, Internet TOEFL 79, IELTS 6.5
• If you are not a US citizen and you expect an F or J visa:financial information
• GRE
• Statement of goals and objectives
• Three letters of recommendation

The Community Nutrition and Health Promotion program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers a range of financial assistance options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with in-state students benefiting from lower rates compared to out-of-state students. For the academic year, in-state undergraduate students typically pay approximately $5,600 per year for tuition, while out-of-state students pay around $16,600 per year. Graduate students may encounter different fee structures, with tuition costs approximately $8,400 for in-state students and $19,200 for out-of-state students annually.

Financial aid options include federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. The Federal Pell Grant is available for eligible undergraduate students demonstrating financial need, providing a non-repayable award that can significantly offset tuition costs. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers institutional scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and financial need. Scholarships such as the Nebraska Opportunity Grant and the Lincoln Foundation Scholarships are competitive and can provide substantial financial support.

Work-study programs enable students to gain employment on or off campus, earning wages that can help cover educational expenses. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to determine eligibility for federal assistance programs. Additionally, students may seek private scholarships offered by local organizations, healthcare agencies, and professional associations related to nutrition and health promotion.

Payment plans are available to distribute tuition payments over multiple installments, making financial planning more manageable. The university’s Office of Student Financial Aid provides guidance and assistance in navigating available resources and completing necessary paperwork. International students may have access to different funding options, including scholarships specifically designed for international applicants and institutional support programs.

Overall, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln endeavors to make the Community Nutrition and Health Promotion program financially accessible through a comprehensive array of financial aid options and support services, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their academic and professional goals in community health and nutrition.

Community Nutrition and Health Promotion at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in improving community health through nutrition education, policy development, and health promotion initiatives. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from dietetics, public health, behavioral sciences, and community engagement to equip students with practical skills and theoretical understanding necessary for effective intervention and leadership in community health settings. Students will explore topics such as nutrition assessment, program planning and evaluation, health communications, cultural competency, and policy advocacy, all within the context of diverse populations and community needs. The curriculum includes coursework in community nutrition theory, research methods, health promotion strategies, and ethical considerations in public health practice. Practical experience is gained through internships and community projects, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios and develop skills in program implementation, community outreach, and partnership building. Faculty members are experts in public health, nutrition, and community services, providing mentorship and guidance tailored to individual career goals. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for roles in local, state, and federal health agencies, non-profit organizations, schools, and healthcare settings, contributing to the development and promotion of healthier communities. The program also offers opportunities for advanced study and research, supporting students interested in pursuing careers in academia, policy development, or specialized health disciplines. Overall, Community Nutrition and Health Promotion at Nebraska Lincoln fosters a commitment to social responsibility, lifelong learning, and the application of evidence-based practices to enhance community well-being and health equity.