Master of Science in Nutritional Science - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions
Source: https://gero.usc.edu/admissions/academics/masters-programs/master-science-nutritional-science
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:17
Master of Science in Nutritional Science - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions
Close Search
Master of Science in Nutritional Science
MSNS Program
|
Home
>
Academics
>
Master’s Programs
>
Master of Science in Nutritional Science
Shape the future of healthy lifespans, longevity and nutrition
The Master of Science in Nutritional Science prepares graduates with advanced knowledge, skills, and intellectual maturity to become innovative leaders in healthspan and longevity. This program gives students who have completed an undergraduate degree in nutrition an opportunity to earn a master’s degree with an emphasis on aging and wellness.
Request Information
In this Section
Overview
Curriculum
Course Catalogue
Admission Requirements
Request Information
Program Information
Delivery format
100% online or on-site
Typical Program Length
Full-time: 12-18 months
Part-time: 18-36 months
Deadlines
Fall 2026: March 15, 2026
Spring 2027: October 15, 2026
Post priority deadline: Rolling basis
International Applicants
Students are eligible for a STEM Visa
Is the Master of Science in Nutritional Science (MSNS) Right for Me?
The Master of Science in Nutritional Science is ideal if you already have an undergraduate degree in nutrition (along with a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement), or are a current Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), who wants to focus on aging and wellness, and to take advantage of the additional opportunities a master’s degree affords.
The degree is designed for:
Future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) with DPD verification statement
Current RDNs who want a master’s degree
Compare Nutrition Programs
Career Opportunities for MSNS Graduates
Deliver and administer nutrition and dietetics programs in the private and public sectors
Careers in nutrition and dietetics, including:
working in hospitals
long-term care, university, and school foodservice programs
lifestyle and wellness coaching
scientific research
policy and advocacy
How Do I Earn My MSNS at USC Leonard Davis?
The Master of Science in Nutritional Science can be completed online through distance education or in-person and on a full-time or part-time basis. For full-time students, the 32 unit curriculum can be completed in as little as one year.
What Will I Study in My Classes?
The MSNS program at USC Leonard Davis has strong relationships with community health professionals and programs serving individuals across the lifespan, and recognizes that Registered Dietitian Nutritionists will be playing an increasing role in health care, aging and longevity. Thus, the goals focus on assuring that the program leverages advanced knowledge of nutritional sciences to promote healthspan and longevity. Coursework in this advanced degree prepares students to apply scientific methodology and analytical research to nutrition practice and enables graduates to assume leadership roles in the field of nutritional science with a focus on wellness and longevity.
You’ll explore these subjects through your required and elective courses:
Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Disease
Perspectives on a Changing Society an Introduction to Aging
Current Topics in Clinical Nutrition
Micronutrients, Health and Longevity
Chronic Conditions and Older Adults
View the full curriculum
What are the program requirements?
Successful completion of 32 units is required for graduation (24 units of didactic coursework and 8 units of research).
Prerequisites
Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (CDR) Registration
Application Requirements
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Complete supplemental application included as part of university application
In your university application, you must upload your resume and statement of interest
2 letters of recommendation, either uploaded in your university application or mailed separately by your recommenders
Official transcripts should be mailed directly to our office, or
submitted electronically
. Students must declare all schools on the application and submit transcripts from all institutions attended (even if it was for just one semester) after high school:
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Office of Admission and Student Services
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0191
On your university application, include your scholarship application—merit-based scholarships are available to qualified applicants. The GRE may be waived by having strong academics. If the GRE is required, you will be notified during the review process.
Statement of Interest
Your statement of interest plays an important role in helping our faculty consider your application for graduate study. The following prompt is designed to help you but is not an exhaustive list of information you should include in your statement. We recommend that your statement is within three to five double-spaced pages. The statement should be uploaded as part of the university application.
Tell us why you chose to apply to the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Tell us about your experiences in gerontology
Describe your educational and career goals
Please describe your strengths and weaknesses
Program Resources
Nutrition Programs Information Session
How to apply
Learning that Fits Your Life
Whether you live halfway across the world or have a busy career, we make this program work for you. You can earn the MSNS degree online, through our robust digital course platform.
All your classes are streamed online, allowing you to interact with your classmates and professors in real-time. Learn more about our
online education program.
Request Information
Interested in learning more about a program? Contact an advisor using this form below.
Contact Information
Stories and Spotlights
Educating leaders in nutrition and dietetics
Read more stories
Shauna Davis, MSNHL
Shauna Davis, who is focused on obtaining her Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity (MSNHL), says the program has revealed a whole new world of possibilities.
Kayee Liu, MSNHL
Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity (MSNHL) student Kayee Liu enjoys sitting down with patients and helping them develop healthy eating plans.
Alicia Miller, MSNHL
Shifting careers especially in the midst of the pandemic can be an incredible challenge, but for Master’s student Alicia Miller, nothing is more important to her than working on innovative ways to promote healthy aging.
Learn more and apply
Our community of ambitious students, eminent faculty and renowned alumni is waiting for you to join us. Our advisory team is ready to answer all your questions. Let’s continue the conversation.
Contact us
Learn how to apply
Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089
(213) 740-5156
|
ldsgero@usc.edu
Quick Links
Why USC Leonard Davis
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
Request Information
Contact Us
Privacy Notice
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Digital Accessibility
© 2026 USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions.
twitter
facebook
linkedin
youtube
instagram
Close Menu
Admission
Why USC Leonard Davis
About the School
Overview
What is Gerontology?
Gerontology Careers
Faculty
Research
News
The USC Leonard Davis Student Experience
Student Life
Student & Alumni Stories
Student Organizations
Study Abroad
Internships
USC Student Affairs
Academics
Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Master’s Programs
Specialized Master’s Programs
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
PhD Programs
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences
Online Education
Professional Education
Curricula and Resources
Undergraduate Curriculum
Graduate Curriculum
Dual Degree Curriculum
Graduate Certificate Curriculum
PhD Curriculum
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences Curriculum
Course Catalogue
Program Objectives
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply
Overview
International Applicants
Request Information
Information Sessions
Office Hours
Newly Admitted
Next Steps
Overview
Undergraduate New Admits
Graduate New Admits
Academic Resources
Course Catalogue
Schedule of Classes
Academic Calendar
Academic Conduct
Gerontology Resources
Gerontology Library Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Tuition and Aid
Events
Event Calendar
Request Information
Contact Us
Back to main site
twitter
facebook
linkedin
youtube
instagram
Close Search
Master of Science in Nutritional Science
MSNS Program
|
Home
>
Academics
>
Master’s Programs
>
Master of Science in Nutritional Science
Shape the future of healthy lifespans, longevity and nutrition
The Master of Science in Nutritional Science prepares graduates with advanced knowledge, skills, and intellectual maturity to become innovative leaders in healthspan and longevity. This program gives students who have completed an undergraduate degree in nutrition an opportunity to earn a master’s degree with an emphasis on aging and wellness.
Request Information
In this Section
Overview
Curriculum
Course Catalogue
Admission Requirements
Request Information
Program Information
Delivery format
100% online or on-site
Typical Program Length
Full-time: 12-18 months
Part-time: 18-36 months
Deadlines
Fall 2026: March 15, 2026
Spring 2027: October 15, 2026
Post priority deadline: Rolling basis
International Applicants
Students are eligible for a STEM Visa
Is the Master of Science in Nutritional Science (MSNS) Right for Me?
The Master of Science in Nutritional Science is ideal if you already have an undergraduate degree in nutrition (along with a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement), or are a current Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), who wants to focus on aging and wellness, and to take advantage of the additional opportunities a master’s degree affords.
The degree is designed for:
Future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) with DPD verification statement
Current RDNs who want a master’s degree
Compare Nutrition Programs
Career Opportunities for MSNS Graduates
Deliver and administer nutrition and dietetics programs in the private and public sectors
Careers in nutrition and dietetics, including:
working in hospitals
long-term care, university, and school foodservice programs
lifestyle and wellness coaching
scientific research
policy and advocacy
How Do I Earn My MSNS at USC Leonard Davis?
The Master of Science in Nutritional Science can be completed online through distance education or in-person and on a full-time or part-time basis. For full-time students, the 32 unit curriculum can be completed in as little as one year.
What Will I Study in My Classes?
The MSNS program at USC Leonard Davis has strong relationships with community health professionals and programs serving individuals across the lifespan, and recognizes that Registered Dietitian Nutritionists will be playing an increasing role in health care, aging and longevity. Thus, the goals focus on assuring that the program leverages advanced knowledge of nutritional sciences to promote healthspan and longevity. Coursework in this advanced degree prepares students to apply scientific methodology and analytical research to nutrition practice and enables graduates to assume leadership roles in the field of nutritional science with a focus on wellness and longevity.
You’ll explore these subjects through your required and elective courses:
Nutrition, Genes, Longevity and Disease
Perspectives on a Changing Society an Introduction to Aging
Current Topics in Clinical Nutrition
Micronutrients, Health and Longevity
Chronic Conditions and Older Adults
View the full curriculum
What are the program requirements?
Successful completion of 32 units is required for graduation (24 units of didactic coursework and 8 units of research).
Prerequisites
Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (CDR) Registration
Application Requirements
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Complete supplemental application included as part of university application
In your university application, you must upload your resume and statement of interest
2 letters of recommendation, either uploaded in your university application or mailed separately by your recommenders
Official transcripts should be mailed directly to our office, or
submitted electronically
. Students must declare all schools on the application and submit transcripts from all institutions attended (even if it was for just one semester) after high school:
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Office of Admission and Student Services
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0191
On your university application, include your scholarship application—merit-based scholarships are available to qualified applicants. The GRE may be waived by having strong academics. If the GRE is required, you will be notified during the review process.
Statement of Interest
Your statement of interest plays an important role in helping our faculty consider your application for graduate study. The following prompt is designed to help you but is not an exhaustive list of information you should include in your statement. We recommend that your statement is within three to five double-spaced pages. The statement should be uploaded as part of the university application.
Tell us why you chose to apply to the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Tell us about your experiences in gerontology
Describe your educational and career goals
Please describe your strengths and weaknesses
Program Resources
Nutrition Programs Information Session
How to apply
Learning that Fits Your Life
Whether you live halfway across the world or have a busy career, we make this program work for you. You can earn the MSNS degree online, through our robust digital course platform.
All your classes are streamed online, allowing you to interact with your classmates and professors in real-time. Learn more about our
online education program.
Request Information
Interested in learning more about a program? Contact an advisor using this form below.
Contact Information
Stories and Spotlights
Educating leaders in nutrition and dietetics
Read more stories
Shauna Davis, MSNHL
Shauna Davis, who is focused on obtaining her Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity (MSNHL), says the program has revealed a whole new world of possibilities.
Kayee Liu, MSNHL
Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity (MSNHL) student Kayee Liu enjoys sitting down with patients and helping them develop healthy eating plans.
Alicia Miller, MSNHL
Shifting careers especially in the midst of the pandemic can be an incredible challenge, but for Master’s student Alicia Miller, nothing is more important to her than working on innovative ways to promote healthy aging.
Learn more and apply
Our community of ambitious students, eminent faculty and renowned alumni is waiting for you to join us. Our advisory team is ready to answer all your questions. Let’s continue the conversation.
Contact us
Learn how to apply
Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089
(213) 740-5156
|
ldsgero@usc.edu
Quick Links
Why USC Leonard Davis
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
Request Information
Contact Us
Privacy Notice
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Digital Accessibility
© 2026 USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Admissions.
youtube
Close Menu
Admission
Why USC Leonard Davis
About the School
Overview
What is Gerontology?
Gerontology Careers
Faculty
Research
News
The USC Leonard Davis Student Experience
Student Life
Student & Alumni Stories
Student Organizations
Study Abroad
Internships
USC Student Affairs
Academics
Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Master’s Programs
Specialized Master’s Programs
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
PhD Programs
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences
Online Education
Professional Education
Curricula and Resources
Undergraduate Curriculum
Graduate Curriculum
Dual Degree Curriculum
Graduate Certificate Curriculum
PhD Curriculum
Doctorate of Longevity Arts and Sciences Curriculum
Course Catalogue
Program Objectives
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply
Overview
International Applicants
Request Information
Information Sessions
Office Hours
Newly Admitted
Next Steps
Overview
Undergraduate New Admits
Graduate New Admits
Academic Resources
Course Catalogue
Schedule of Classes
Academic Calendar
Academic Conduct
Gerontology Resources
Gerontology Library Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Tuition and Aid
Events
Event Calendar
Request Information
Contact Us
Back to main site
youtube