Benedictine adds new nutrition degrees to program offerings

Benedictine University's newly launched undergraduate and graduate nutrition programs offer multiple professional pathways and specialties for those who have a passion for food.

Whether you want to become the manager of a restaurant, or help others to lead a healthier lifestyle as a registered dietitian or health education specialist, Benedictine's programs provide students with a rich foundation in the scientific study of food and nourishment upon which they can build a strong career.

Undergraduate programs now offered include Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programs in Food and Nutrition Management and Health Education and Promotion, and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) programs in Nutrition and Dietetics the university in Lisle.

The B.A. in Food and Nutrition Management program was designed to prepare students to meet the competencies of food and nutrition managers. The program is unique in that it emphasizes the science of food and is aligned with a strong business management program. This type of postsecondary degree is preferred among applicants who are seeking to manage full-service restaurants, regional and national restaurant franchises and contracted food service operations at sports and entertainment venues, schools, nursing homes and other large institutions.

The B.A. in Health Education and Promotion program prepares practitioners and educators in public and community health and nutrition. Students gain evidence-based knowledge and skills to screen and assess, plan, implement, monitor and evaluate programs designed to promote, maintain and improve the health of individuals, groups and communities, and impact environments and policies. The program prepares students to take the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) examination offered through the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.

Students who complete the M.A. in Nutrition and Wellness program will be able to plan and design nutrition and wellness education or training programs, conduct descriptive research and present evidence-based professional communications. Students in the program can choose from three certificates: Health Education and Promotion, Nutrition Entrepreneurship or Community Nutrition Engagement.

The M.S. in Nutrition and Wellness differs from the M.A. in that it is a life science-based program that prepares students to become vital ingredients in community-based nutrition and wellness programs. Students gain in-depth knowledge of nutrition science, research and the essential skills to provide health promotion services to diverse populations across the life span. The research component fosters development of skills in evaluating the outcomes of a health education assessment or intervention, or conducting community-based research.