MPH with Nutrition Emphasis/Concentration

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The Master of Public Health in Nutrition (with a coordinated program in dietetics) at Loma Linda University enables students to meet the didactic (classes) and supervised practice (rotation hours) requirements to be eligible to take the RDN exam. The purpose of the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public by encouraging high standards of performance by persons practicing nutrition and dietetics. The Nutrition (Coordinated Program in Nutrition and Dietetics), MPH, offered by the School of Public Health is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND).

Delivery Modes

The program length is 2.33 years based on full-time enrollment; part-time enrollment is also permitted. Students are expected to adhere to on-campus requirements, indicating an on-campus delivery format.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum focuses on enabling students to meet didactic (classroom instruction) and supervised practice (rotation hours) requirements. Upon successful completion of the degree, students are eligible to sit for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an institutionally accredited college or university, with a G.P.A. of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. The GRE is not required for applicants meeting the G.P.A. criteria but is required if the G.P.A. is below the minimum for the application to be considered. At least three academic and/or employer references are necessary. Applicants may be invited to participate in an interview process. While religious affiliation is not a requirement, students are expected to adhere to on-campus requirements including modest dress, abstinence from alcohol and smoking, and attendance at weekly chapel.

Prerequisites include:

• General chemistry

• Organic chemistry

• Microbiology

• Anatomy and physiology

• Human nutrition or equivalent

Cost & Financial Aid

For the Academic Year 2024-2025, the estimated Tuition & Fees are $40,455 for Year 1 (9 months), $46,340 for Year 2 (12 months), and $20,490 for Year 3 (6 months). These figures are based on full-time attendance. Additional estimated costs include Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment ($1,900 for Year 1, $1,550 for Year 2). Other educational costs like living expenses, transportation, and personal expenses are also to be considered. Financial aid may be available for eligible students enrolled at least half-time (4 units per quarter for graduate programs).

Career & Practical Experience

Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers. Possible roles include:

• Public Health Nutrition (Local, State, Federal): Nutrition Educator, Public Health Nutritionist, Department Director.

• Clinical Nutrition: Clinical Dietitian (In-patient, Out-patient), Clinical Manager, Nutritional Services Director.

• Private Practice & Consulting: Corporate Wellness.

• Sports Nutrition.

• Food Service & Manufacturing: School District Nutritional Services Director, School District Nutrition Specialist, Hospital Food Service Manager, Product development RDN, Supermarket RDN.

• Research & Education: Research Dietitian, Instructor, Professor.