Ph.D. in HNFE

Our Doctor of Philosophy in HNFE program gives you an opportunity to delve deeper into your passion by fostering innovative research and expertise in the field.

Benefits of the program

Our Doctor of Philosophy in HNFE program offers unparalleled versatility through distinct tracks: Behavioral and Community Science, Clinical Physiology and Metabolism, and Molecular and Cellular Science. Tailor your academic journey, delve into advanced research, and prepare for impactful contributions to the fields of human nutrition, foods, and exercise. For information about faculty affiliated with each track, please refer to our faculty directory.

Requirements to apply

Ph.D. Credits: 90 total credits, 27 course credits, and 30 research and dissertation credits (HNFE 7994)

• Human Subjects Protections Tutorial Institutional Review Board (IRB) ORInstitutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) related training
• ALS 5324 Research Ethics in Agr & Life Sciences (fall only) (1 cr)
• ALS 5984 Building Multicultural Competence in Agriculture and Life Sciences (1 cr) for students whose initial enrollment is Spring 2022 or beyond.
• GRAD 5014 Academic Integrity & Plagiarism (2 cr)

• HNFE 5204 Translational Science in HNFE (4 cr)
  
• Graduate Statistics 6 credits required for Ph.D. (See course offerings page for potential options.)

Milestone Requirements for Ph.D. Degree

• Convene an advisory committee.
  
• Submit a plan of study (due by the end of the second semester).
  
• Complete all coursework on plan of study.
  
• Submit a progress report (due every spring).
  
• Take and pass qualifying exam (due semester 4).
• Take and pass preliminary exam (due semester 6).
  
• Take and pass final exam (due semester 8-10).
  
• Submit electronic dissertation.

For specific details, view the Doctoral Graduate Handbook or view this PowerPoint presentation for an overview of the milestones. When you click for the PowerPoint, it will download directly to your computer.

How to apply

1. Identify a Graduate Program Faculty member in the respective track who is willing to direct your research program and serve as faculty advisor.
2. Complete the Graduate School Application. A resume, personal statement, three letters of reference, and official transcripts are required to apply. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for non-U.S. citizens or non-U.S. permanent residents.
3. Deadlines for full consideration with all materials received:
   • Fall semester: February 1
   • Spring semester: October 1

International students, please see the Graduate Student Immigration Services for more information on the application process.

For information on funding and assistantships, please see Program Funding.