Nutritional Sciences

Examining how to minimize disease and maximize years of life through optimal nutrition

Prevention through Nutrition

Bridging Health, Food and Science

Nutritional sciences examine how diet intersects with human experience at many levels: from the molecular level—of genes, metabolites and cells—to the systems level: individual people, families and societies. Faculty have expertise in many areas of biomedical and human science, conducting research at the intersection of epidemiology, genetics, public health, cell biology and medicine. Scientists here explore the interconnectedness of human systems, through basic and applied research, and involve students in their research.
 

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For Majors

Experiences & Careers

Nutrition students receive training at UT in and out of the classroom. They conduct research into nutrient intake and metabolism, nutrient-regulated gene expression, school gardening and nutrition education, growth and development, and child and family health. They study abroad, land internships with work in clinical care, volunteer in community-based organizations, and join research laboratories. Graduates go on to a wide range of careers including research, the pharmaceutical and food industries, healthcare, and education. Recent grads have jobs like:

  • Research scientist

  • Registered Dietitian (RD)

  • Wellness consultant

  • Nutrition educator

  • Quality assurance analyst

Discover nutrition career paths

See opportunities for nutrition majors

In The Texas Scientist

Explore Stories

In UT Austin nutritional sciences courses and spaces, students discover opportunities to learn through experience. They support researchers examining connections between obesity and cancer, explore with scientists how prenatal weight problems can  affect children later in life and work under the guidance of a trained faculty member-chef in our academic kitchen. They also support research-based interventions in local schools and efforts to extend outreach about nutrition beyond the bounds of the Forty Acres.

Cooking up lessons as a UT undergraduate

Accelerating health, from farm to classroom

researching prenatal obesity & baby's health