Human Nutrition Concentration

This concentration is a springboard for students interested in nutrition research, food product development, and many pre-health careers.

Requirements Sample Curriculum (pdf)

As a human nutrition student, you will study the interaction between the physiological and biochemical aspects of metabolism, the nutrient composition of foods, and the role of social and economic factors as determinants of food selection. Human nutrition embodies a holistic approach.

You can get involved in research with one or more of your core faculty members to mentor you in this scientifically rigorous concentration. You can also participate in an internship that will give you skills you can take directly into the workforce like the NCAA sports nutritionist programs partnered through Illini Fuel. Our graduates pursue advanced degrees in medicine, dentistry, and public health, as well as taking on careers in laboratory research, government policy, or academia. Find more information on University of Illinois Pre-Health.

Student and instructor measuring bodily functions.

Student using analytical equipment in laboratory.

What's Your Dream Job?

As a human nutrition major, you have many options post graduation! Our curriculum offers a lot of flexibility for you to choose courses to supplement the required curriculum.

We are here to help you plan your academic experience preparing you for:

Medical school (MD)
Physician's Assistant (PA)
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Dental
Pharmacy
Master of Science (MS)
Doctorate of Science (PhD)
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Research and development of innovative food or beverage product

Do you love your current major and want to also major in Human Nutrition? You can earn a dual major! See below for the steps/information

Complete all required major courses and upper level Human Nutrition courses:
- FSHN 101, FSHN 120, or FSHN 465
- FSHN 220: Principles of Nutrition
- FSHN 426: Biochemical Nutrition I
- FSHN 427: Biochemical Nutrition II
- FSHN 420: Nutritional Aspects of Disease
- Three additional upper level FSHN/Nutrition electives