Graduate Academics

The graduate program prepares and trains students for rewarding careers in academia, industry, or government.  Some unique qualities of the program include:

• A dynamic, growing and unique department of over 725 undergraduates, 50 graduate students and 20 faculty members.
  
• One of the only graduate programs in the country that combines nutrition, foods and exercise and emphasizes translational research.
  
• Numerous opportunities for research assistantships with over $6 million in research funding from National Institutes of Health, US Department of Agriculture and other organizations.
  
• Collaborative work with faculty members and students from other departments such as agricultural economics, biochemistry, animal and poultry sciences, food science and technology, veterinary medicine, psychology, and human development.
  
• Opportunities to gain real-world experiences through strong ties with Virginia Cooperative Extension, statewide food and nutrition programs, health care facilities, and community agencies.
  
• Shares leadership of Virginia Tech Riverside with Carilion Clinic to conduct physical activity, nutrition, and weight control research that is clinically relevant, practical, and effective.

Graduate students may earn a M.S. or a Ph.D. with an emphasis in:

• Molecular and Cellular Science
  
• Clinical Physiology and Metabolism
  
• Behavioral and Community Science

Students are encouraged to integrate two or more disciplines into their course of study.  To get to know faculty and their research interests, visit the HNFE faculty page.