Bachelor of Science - Nutrition and Food Sciences

The B.S. in Nutrition and Food Sciences (NFS) is UVM's most flexible major: It allows students to customize their coursework to fit their educational and career goals. As an NFS major, students will select NFS courses in addition to core college requirements.

An NFS major is a great choice for students who:

• Want to focus on food - An NFS degree will prepare students for a career in the commercial food processing industry, the federal government or academic research. Americans are increasingly demanding nutritious and convenient foods and, as a result, the food science field is booming. The vulnerability of the food system (food-borne illnesses and bioterrorism) also demands serious problem-solving and scientific research. An NFS major, with a focus on food science electives, will give learners entry into these important careers.

• Plan to become a doctor, dentist, physical therapist, or related professional - NFS is a perfect curriculum for pre-medical studies because students will get the same solid foundation in general and biological sciences that they would if they were to pursue a more general science, plus learners will come away with an area of expertise. Consider the role diet plays in the prevention and treatment of chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension. An NFS background will enable students to pursue a graduate education and a career that embraces a holistic approach to health care.

• Like communicating about science more than they like "doing" it - For career that involves marketing and communications centered on scientific principles, an NFS degree (combined with writing and marketing courses) could give learners an added-value edge. Pharmaceutical and biotechnical industries seek out salespeople who can grasp and relay the sort of scientific information that students will learn as an NFS major. Textbook companies and consumer publications will see their specialized degree as an asset. Organizations that work to improve public health policies or educate communities about health and nutrition hire individuals with nutrition degrees.