Developing Creativity in Nutrition Research

NC State’s interdepartmental graduate nutrition program is comprised of faculty and staff from various departments, including: 

• Agricultural and Human Sciences
• Animal Science
• Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences
• Horticultural Science
• Molecular and Structural Biochemistry
• Prestage Department of Poultry Science
• University Catalog Complete List of Nutrition Faculty

You may complete thesis work with faculty in any of these departments.

Student Spotlight

Matthew Warren found research success in his dissertation studies by examining the vitamin D metabolism in the chicken model to potentially translate those findings to medicine for humans. But he claims his “most significant” experience at NC State was discovering the importance of peer mentoring.

Read about Matthew’s experience

Degree Requirements

Our research-intensive Ph.D. program culminates in a dissertation. Written and oral preliminary examinations occur between the end of the second year of graduate study and one semester before the final oral examination. The advisory committee administers exams for admission to candidacy.

Typical requirements include:

• A minimum of 72 credit hours of courses and research, including credits transferred from a masters degree
• At least 20 credits in specified nutrition and biochemistry courses
• Advanced coursework in related departments

Students are expected to have a strong background in math and chemistry. Additional graduate courses in biochemistry, chemistry, genetics, microbiology, and physiology are available to enhance the primary science support areas. We also encourage students to pursue a minor in another program or department. The student and their faculty advisory committee will agree on the final course selection for a plan of work.

Preparing the Professoriate

Preparing the Professoriate is a nationally recognized program designed to give exceptional doctoral students and postdoctoral scholars an immersive mentoring, teaching, and future faculty preparation experience.

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Fellowships and Grants

Fellowship, traineeships, and grants are awards that require no service in return. They may be based on merit and/or financial need. Often they provide the cost of tuition and fees plus a stipend to cover living expenses.

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