Nutritional sciences
Doctor of Philosophy
Exploring what we eat
Your program of study will be individualized based on your research interests, academic experience and collaboration with your major advisor. You will conduct innovative and high-quality research to solve emerging problems in food science. Our faculty are exploring issues like E. coli, dairy chemistry and processing, food safety and processing, bacterial pathogens, mycotoxins, microbiology and bioactive packaging.
A doctorate gives graduates the professional leadership skills needed to succeed in food and allied industries, government or academia. Students interact with faculty at both the University of Idaho and Washington State University, allowing for more diverse education and access to research facilities at both institutions.
Highlights from this program include:
- Work for universities, the FDA or USDA, and with major food manufacturers
- Apply for research or teaching assistantships
- Lead research projects and publish your findings
- Collaborate through grant-funded research projects
- Get hands-on experience through cooperative teaching and research facilities
Overview
Related Topics
Transform health with advanced training in nutritional sciences
Degree fit
This degree could be a food fit if you:
- Have a master's degree in food science, chemistry, microbiology or biology
- Enjoy independent lab work and research
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,414 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Postsecondary Home Economics Teachers
$48,689 - Community Health Workers
$41,483 - Clinical Research Coordinators
$103,303 - Health Educators
$52,422 - Dietitians and Nutritionists
$50,017
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead—estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning:
- Access to U of I and WSU campuses and labs
- Design and conduct scientific experiments
- Mentor undergraduates in research or club activities
- Join faculty in international research projects
- Collaborate with the U of I Food Technology Center, WSU Creamery, USDA Western Wheat Quality Lab, and more!
- Present research at professional society events and competitions
Clubs:
- Food Science Club
- College Bowl Team
- Food Product Development Team
- Graduate and Professional Student Association
Application information
Applicants for the Ph.D. in nutritional sciences must meet the admission requirements below:
- Education level: Bachelor's
- GPA: 3.0
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5
- Number of references: 3
- Other requirements: Master's preferred
Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.