Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Exercise, and Food Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Exercise, and Food Sciences at South Dakota State University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the health, fitness, food, and wellness industries. This program emphasizes the scientific principles underlying human nutrition, physical activity, and food systems, equipping students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for promoting healthy lifestyles and improving community health.

Throughout the program, students will explore core topics such as human nutrition, exercise physiology, food science, and biochemistry, gaining a solid foundation in the sciences that underpin health and wellness. The curriculum includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, dietetics, food safety, and management, providing a well-rounded understanding of how nutrition and physical activity influence individual and public health outcomes. Students will also have opportunities to develop practical skills through laboratories, internships, and community engagement projects, which foster real-world experience and professional preparedness.

The program is designed to serve various career paths, including dietitian or nutritionist roles, fitness and personal training, food service management, public health initiatives, and research. Students can choose to pursue additional certifications or internships to enhance their credentials for graduate programs or employment. The faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and facilitating their development into competent and compassionate health professionals.

Graduates of this program will be equipped not only with technical expertise but also with critical thinking and communication skills essential for effective health promotion and education. The program encourages students to stay current with emerging trends and research in nutrition, exercise science, and food technologies, promoting lifelong learning and adaptability in a changing industry. Whether aiming to work directly with individuals to improve their health or to influence food policies and systems at a broader level, students will be prepared to make meaningful contributions to community well-being and public health initiatives.

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Exercise, and Food Sciences at South Dakota State University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for diverse careers in health, wellness, food industry, and research fields. This program emphasizes the scientific principles underlying human nutrition, physical activity, and food systems, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to promote health and wellness across various populations. Throughout the coursework, students explore fundamental topics including human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, food science, dietary assessment, and exercise science, providing a well-rounded understanding of how nutrition and physical activity influence overall health.

Students have opportunities to engage in practical learning through laboratory experiments, internships, and community outreach programs, which enhance their understanding of real-world applications. The curriculum also covers important aspects such as community nutrition, sports nutrition, clinical nutrition, and food technology, preparing graduates for careers in dietetics, sports organizations, food production, and public health initiatives. The program promotes critical thinking, research skills, and ethical practices vital for professionals working in the dynamic field of nutrition and exercise sciences.

Moreover, the program prepares students to pursue graduate education or professional certifications, including Registered Dietitian credentials. Faculty members are dedicated to providing mentorship and supporting students’ academic and professional development. By the end of the program, graduates will be equipped with a strong foundation in science-based nutrition, an understanding of the role of physical activity, and the ability to develop individualized nutrition and exercise plans for diverse populations. Whether aiming to work in clinical settings, community programs, food industry innovation, or research, students will be well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

Program Requirements:

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Exercise, and Food Sciences at South Dakota State University is designed to prepare students for careers in the health and wellness industries, including dietetics, fitness, food service management, and community health. To graduate with this degree, students must complete a total of approximately 120 credit hours, which include both general education courses and specialized major coursework.

Candidates must fulfill foundational general education requirements in areas such as communication, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, ensuring a well-rounded academic background. Specific courses typically include introductory biology, chemistry, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition sciences, statistics, and English composition. Emphasis is placed on developing strong written and verbal communication skills, critical thinking, and scientific understanding.

Within the major, students are required to take core courses in nutrition principles, exercise physiology, food science, and community health. Practical experience is a vital component; therefore, programs include laboratory work, internships, or cooperative education placements in relevant settings such as hospitals, clinics, community organizations, or fitness facilities. These experiential learning opportunities are designed to provide real-world skills and professional readiness.

Additionally, students interested in becoming Registered Dietitians must complete accredited dietetics coursework and supervised practice hours, culminating in the Dietetic Internship or equivalent program, fulfilling the requirements of accreditation bodies. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized areas such as sports nutrition, public health, food safety, and management.

In addition to coursework, students are expected to participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects to enhance their practical understanding and stay current with developments in the field. Graduation also requires maintaining a minimum GPA, completing all prerequisite courses successfully, and fulfilling any program-specific assessments or capstone project requirements.

Overall, the program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates science, applied practice, and professional development, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a competitive healthcare and food-related industries.

The financing studies for the Nutrition, Exercise, and Food Sciences program at South Dakota State University are designed to provide students with comprehensive information about the costs associated with their education, as well as the options available for financial support. Tuition fees vary depending on the residency status of the student, with in-state students benefiting from lower rates compared to out-of-state students. Currently, the estimated tuition for in-state undergraduate students is approximately $10,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $13,000 annually. These figures include a standard full course load of 15 credits per semester, but costs may increase for students enrolled in additional courses or specialized programs.

In addition to tuition, students should consider other expenses such as housing, food, textbooks, supplies, health insurance, and personal costs. On-campus housing options are available at various price points, typically ranging from $4,500 to $7,000 per academic year, depending on the type of accommodation selected. Meal plans are also available, with costs averaging around $3,000 annually. Textbook and supply costs generally amount to approximately $1,200 per year, although this can vary based on course requirements.

Financial aid options are accessible to both new and returning students, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. The university’s Office of Financial Aid provides detailed guidance on eligibility and application procedures for federal and state assistance programs. Scholarships specific to the Nutrition, Exercise, and Food Sciences program are available, often based on academic merit and financial need. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early each year to maximize their aid opportunities.

Work-study programs enable students to gain part-time employment on campus while pursuing their degree, helping to offset educational costs. Additionally, many students secure private scholarships and external funding sources to supplement their financial resources. It is recommended that students develop a comprehensive financial plan before starting their studies to cover all anticipated expenses.

The university also offers payment plans that allow students to split tuition and fees into manageable installments over the semester or year. For students experiencing financial hardship, emergency grants and short-term loans may be available. Overall, students should explore all available resources and plan their finances carefully to ensure a smooth educational experience without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Exercise, and Food Sciences at South Dakota State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in the health, food, and fitness industries. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, combining foundational knowledge in nutrition, exercise science, and food technology with practical skills applicable to various professional settings. Students enrolled in this program will gain a thorough understanding of human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, and the biological sciences, which are essential for understanding how nutrition and physical activity impact health and disease. The curriculum includes coursework in dietetics, sports nutrition, food safety, and food service management, offering a well-rounded education that prepares graduates for roles such as dietitians, fitness trainers, wellness coaches, and food industry specialists.

Students have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning through laboratories, internships, and cooperative education experiences that connect classroom knowledge with real-world applications. The program also encourages participation in research projects and community outreach, fostering a deeper understanding of the societal impact of nutrition and food sciences. Graduates of the program are equipped with critical thinking and analytical skills needed to interpret scientific data and develop evidence-based strategies to improve health outcomes. The program is accredited by relevant professional organizations, ensuring that students meet industry standards and are well-prepared for advanced study or professional certification.

South Dakota State University provides state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support student learning, including modern laboratories, computer facilities, and access to research databases. Faculty members are recognized experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance throughout the students’ academic journey. The program aims to cultivate knowledgeable, ethical, and innovative professionals dedicated to promoting health and wellness across diverse populations. Graduates from this program often seek employment in healthcare settings, food and beverage industries, research institutions, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Additionally, a number of students pursue graduate studies in nutrition, dietetics, exercise physiology, or public health to further their careers. Overall, the program offers a strong foundation in the science of food, exercise, and human health, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society through their expertise.