Nutrition Science

When you understand what we eat—and how it can influence our health and other parts of our lives—you can start to influence change. This major is for students whose interests go beyond having a passion for food and cooking, and instead want to focus on nutrition as a science. It’s a program designed for people who like biology and chemistry, and are looking for a degree that can help them stand apart in a wide variety of fields. Whether you want to help people one-on-one or find ways to improve the health of entire communities, this is the place to start.

What will I learn?

As a nutrition science major, you'll learn about human health and science, including classes in biology and chemistry. You'll see how food and nutrition can help with disease prevention and managing chronic health issues. And you’ll explore evidence-based research about metabolism, energy expenditure and nutritional requirements, including how they change throughout our lifetimes. You’ll also have opportunities to take electives in nutrition counseling, neuroscience and other related topics. You can even choose to specialize in an area such as exercise science, public health or sports nutrition.

What can I do outside of class?

Have fun, meet people and prepare for a successful career by getting involved in these activities.

  • Research. Even as an undergrad, you can work with faculty on researching topics such as the impact of exercise and nutrition on cardiovascular diseases, obesity and other conditions.
  • Campus-wide collaborations and events. Meet well-known speakers at lectures and other events hosted by the School of Public Health and Health Professions and other schools within UB’s Academic Health Center.
  • Study abroad and other global opportunities. Get firsthand, life-changing experience while helping others and learning about health services around the world.
Research
Connect with Mentors
Events
Study Abroad

What can I do with a nutrition science degree?

As a nutrition science graduate, you may find yourself helping people, conducting research or consulting about food science, dietetics and nutrition in a setting like those listed here.

  • Community center.
  • Fitness-related organization.
  • Food manufacturer.
  • Food security group (such as a food bank or community garden).
  • Food service organization.
  • Government agency.
  • Health-related non-profit organization.
  • Hospital food service.
  • Long-term care center.
  • Outpatient center.
  • Pharmaceutical company.
  • Research institute.
  • School or university.

Of course, many students choose to go on to graduate school and become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) or get a degree in another health-related field, such as medicine or public health.

Who will I learn from?

World-renowned researchers. Registered dietitian nutritionists. Award-winning teachers and mentors. These are the people students learn from at UB.

Our faculty members have been honored as outstanding educators, have helped found and lead nutrition-related organizations, and have presented at national conferences. They include experts in many different areas within the field of nutrition, from obesity and food pricing to energy balance, nutrition labeling, community nutrition, and the impact of caffeine and other drugs. Of course, they are also active members in leading professional organizations, such as the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior, Food & Culinary Professionals, and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Most importantly, our faculty members are committed to helping you succeed in and out of the classroom as you earn your degree and prepare for a successful career.

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