Nutrition Programs

We offer an undergraduate B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics major program, which is a Didactic Program in Nutrition and Dietetics (DPD). Our DPD is one of six programs in Northern Illinois that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Students completing the DPD degree program are eligible to apply for acceptance into accredited Dietetic Internship programs.

Successful completion of the combined Master / Dietetic Internship program qualifies one to sit for the registration examination to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). We offer a Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition and Dietetics. Students must have completed a DPD to apply to these combined Master / Dietetic Internship programs.

Our Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition and Wellness program prepares students to become vital ingredients in community-based nutrition and wellness programs. This online program provides a solid nutrition foundation, with the option to select a Health Education or a Nutrition Entrepreneurship concentration.

Improving health and preventing disease is a critical concern for every community and has never been more timely. The Health Education and Promotion major is for those who desire to become health education specialists who are trained to help others become healthier. According to the professional association for health education specialists (the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing or NCHEC), they “work with individuals, families, and communities, as well as public and private organizations to create, implement, oversee, and analyze programs and strategies that promote health and well-being” (https://www.nchec.org/). Through education and engagement, the major fosters the ability to develop sustainable health solutions and health equity to advocate for and strengthen the health of diverse communities as well as acting as reputable health resources.

The HLED major at BenU is aligned with the national competencies for health education specialists established by NCHEC. This means students graduating with this major not only gain evidence-based knowledge and practical skills to prepare them for a vocation in health education, but also gain eligibility to take the credentialing examination offered through NCHEC in order to become credentialed as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES).

Although not an online degree, most of the health education (HLED) courses for this major are offered online. This newer degree is the perfect complement to any associates degree, especially ones in the health related sciences or business.

Benedictine University offers a B.A. in Food and Nutrition Management. The program is unique in its emphasis on the science of food as basis for manipulation and healthier eating, the inclusion of sustainability, and affiliation with a strong business management program. Students are encouraged to use their electives to earn a minor in an area of business. This newer degree is the perfect complement to a culinary associates degree.