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Eligibility & Requirements

Seeking a Ph.D. in medical nutrition science? Review the eligibility and requirements for our program at KU Medical Center.

Applicants are no longer required to provide scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). To be eligible for admission, students must meet the following requirements:

College Coursework

The coursework required before enrolling in this program depends upon whether the student is accepted to the medical nutrition science doctoral program after obtaining an undergraduate or after a graduate degree. Additionally, it depends on the area of study of the degree (nutrition, biological sciences or other areas of study).

Degrees earned outside the United States must be evaluated for equivalency.

Grade Point Average

Each applicant must meet the general KU requirements for admission as a graduate student. The minimum GPA requirements for admission are as follows:

  • An undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better is required for regular admission status.
  • Evidence must demonstrate successful completion (equivalent grade of B or higher) of undergraduate or graduate coursework in nutrition, biochemistry, genetics, or other biological science.
    Within the guidelines established by the Office of Graduate Studies, no credit is actually transferred toward the doctorate. However, relevant prior graduate work will be taken into consideration in setting up individual programs of study leading to the Ph.D.

Vaccine and Clinical Site Requirements

Matriculated students will need to provide an immunization profile prior to participating in curricular and/or clinical experiences required by the program. Please read the information found at the bottom of the program's curriculum page and be sure that you understand these requirements.

Background Check

The Joint Commission requires all incoming students to submit for and provide KU with a background check report. This one-time expense must be paid for by the student directly to the company performing the background investigation. Students will be asked to complete this process upon official acceptance into the program. For more information, please see the School of Health Professions background check instructions.

International Students

An applicant is considered an international student if they require a visa, or currently reside in the U.S. with non-immigrant status, or currently reside in the U.S. while applying for permanent residency. Additional requirements and documentation, such as proof of English language proficiency, are required for international students to become eligible for KU programs. Please review the information for international applicants before applying.

Computer Requirements

Students in this program are required to have a computer that meets the minimum software and hardware requirements.

Questions?

Please contact Anna Arthur, Ph.D., medical nutrition science program director, at dietetics@kumc.edu or 913-588-5355 (711 TTY).

School of Health Professions

University of Kansas Medical Center
Department of Dietetics and Nutrition
3901 Rainbow Boulevard
Mailstop 4013
Kansas City, KS 66160
913-588-5355 • 711 TTY