Graduate programs

The master's programs include formal lectures, a research project and the writing of a research essay or thesis. The Ph.D. program requires extensive coursework and a dissertation based on original laboratory research.

For general information regarding applications, please see the Wayne State Graduate School. For specific information about departmental admission requirements, please select the appropriate program or see the Graduate Bulletin.

Degree programs

• Master of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science
• Master of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science and Public Health
• Master of Science in Dietetics
• Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Science
• Ph.D. in Nutrition and Food Science

Certificate program

• Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification

About graduate programs

• Selecting an advisor

  During the first semester in the program, admitted students will be advised by the graduate officer or be assigned a temporary advisor. A permanent advisor will be selected by the student or recommended by the graduate officer as soon as the research interests of the student have been identified.

  For the M.S. thesis option, students must write and defend their research proposal, before starting the research. Students may not work under the supervision of an adjunct faculty in another department unless written authorization is granted by the departmental graduate officer or departmental chair. A copy of the authorization must be attached to the student's plan of work and filed with the departmental office. In addition, the student must have an NFS faculty member collaborate on the project.

• Grade Point Average (GPA)

  Students are required to maintain a 3.0 grade point average in the entire program. A minimum "B" average is required for NFS 6000, 6020, 6030, 6230, 7000 and 7240. Students failing any of these courses (below B–) will be allowed to repeat them once. In addition, department policy allows for one C grade throughout the entire program.

• Plan of work

  Students are required to submit three copies of their plan of work after completing eight credits. Failure to do so will result in a hold on their registration. Students should consult with the Graduate Officer or their Advisor in planning their coursework.

• Theses and essays

  The completion of a thesis or essay is required for the M.S. and M.A. degrees, respectively. The thesis or essay must show evidence of scholarly study and writing and be related to the student's major. Students should consult their advisor regarding requirements for theses and essays.

• Accelerated Graduate Enrollment (AGRADE)

  Qualified senior undergraduates having a GPA of not less than 3.5 may enroll simultaneously in the undergraduate and graduate programs and apply a maximum of sixteen credits towards both the bachelor's and master's degrees in nutrition and food science.

  Students may apply for the program as soon as they complete 90 credits toward the undergraduate degree. Graduate courses taken as part of the AGRADE program are assessed undergraduate tuition rates. All application materials should be sent to the department address.

• Posting of GTA/GSA positions

  The Department of Nutrition and Food Science has a limited number of GTA positions for each fall semester. All Ph.D. students and candidates who are interested in applying for a GTA position must send a Letter of Intent (LOI) by email to NFS Graduate Director, Dr. Diane Cress.

  LOIs are due annually by May 10. If invited to apply, full applications are due May 15.

  Final decisions will be made by the NFS Graduate Committee no later than Jun. 15. Applicants will be selected on the following criteria:

  • Academic progress and satisfactory performance in research toward their Ph.D. degree
  • Teaching experience; number of years enrolled in NFS graduate program
  • Satisfactory teaching and work ethic
  • English language proficiency
  • Number of positions available

  
  Applicants are informed in writing as soon as a decision is made. Request for applications and/or any further inquiries regarding GTA positions should be submitted via email to Dr. Diane Cress, NFS graduate director.

  Wayne State University is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities preparing students for success in a diverse, global society. WSU encourages applications from women, people of color and other underrepresented people. WSU is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.