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Nutrition Science - Pre-Physician Assistant
Nutrition Science - Pre-Physician Assistant
Ohio University’s Nutrition Science – Pre-PA major prepares students for admission to physician assistant graduate programs through a science-based, hands-on curriculum. Students explore how nutrition and biochemistry support human health and disease prevention while completing prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, and clinical nutrition. The program emphasizes the development of clinical assessment and critical-thinking skills essential for success in PA and other advanced healthcare programs.
Ohio University also offers a Nutrition Science – Pre-Medicine major for students pursuing medical, dental, optometry, or other pre-professional health pathways.
Students interested in becoming a Registered Dietitian should explore the Applied Nutrition: Dietetics Track.
Note: The previous Nutrition Science (BS6479) program is no longer accepting new students. Current students enrolled prior to the 2025–2026 academic year can find degree details in the Undergraduate Catalog.
Curriculum
The Nutrition Science – Pre-PA curriculum integrates foundational science courses with applied nutrition study to prepare students for graduate-level physician assistant programs and other healthcare fields. Students complete coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, alongside specialized nutrition courses that emphasize medical nutrition therapy, clinical assessment, and nutrition counseling. This pathway equips students with the knowledge, critical-thinking, and hands-on skills necessary for success in competitive post-baccalaureate healthcare programs.
View full program details in the Undergraduate Academic Catalog
Career Opportunities
The Nutrition Science Pre-PA major is designed to prepare students for admission to PA graduate programs. Most graduates continue into physician assistant studies, while others pursue related fields such as nutrition, public health, or biomedical research.
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Financial Aid & Scholarships
Our Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships provides services to students and parents both in-person and remotely. You can visit our office on the ground floor of Chubb Hall or reach us at financial.aid@ohio.edu or 740.593.4141.
Related Programs
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Nutrition Science – Pre-Medicine
Offers a science-intensive curriculum designed for students preparing for medical school and other professional healthcare programs.
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Applied Nutrition: Dietetics Concentration
Focuses on how diet impacts health and prepares students for careers in nutrition counseling, community wellness, and food service management. This pathway, combined with a master’s in Food and Nutrition Sciences, supports becoming a registered dietitian.
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Applied Nutrition: Environmental Nutrition Concentration
Explores the connections between food systems, sustainability, and health. Students gain experience in agriculture and policy and earn a certificate in Environmental Studies, Sustainability, and Resilience.
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Applied Nutrition: Culinary Nutrition Concentration
Combines nutrition science with culinary skills to prepare students for roles in school and child nutrition, wellness programs, and food service management across healthcare and hospitality settings.