MSDI Track: Curriculum
The curriculum in the MSDI uniquely integrates nutrition, metabolism, and research.
Our nutrition courses combine didactic and supervised experiential learning components that go beyond the basics, strengthening applied nutrition skills. Food system management (NTR 629 & NTR 692P) examines the production, distribution, accessibility, and sustainability of food. Community nutrition (NTR 628 & NTR 628P) highlight how culture, policy, and access shape health. At the core, our clinical nutrition courses (NTR 625 & NTR 625P, NTR 626 & NTR 626P, and NTR 627 & NTR 627P) provide the hands-on training that brings it all together.
Students build a strong foundation in metabolism (NTR 630 & NTR 631), developing an understanding of how nutrients affect physiological processes and interact with genetic and environmental factors to support health. Our research courses (NTR 689–692) train students to evaluate and apply scientific findings, equipping them to become proficient, critical consumers of nutrition research and evidence-based practice.
Students also take the Interprofessional Patient-Centered Teams course (IPE 502), collaborating online with Rush students from other healthcare disciplines to develop teamwork, communication, and a deeper understanding of patient-centered care.
View the current course catalog
Refer to the course catalog for our most up-to-date curriculum information.
Graduation Requirements
The following is required to graduate:
- Complete all didactic coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater
- Fulfill all required supervised experiential learning experiences
- Participate in a minimum of 16 contact hours of approved professional or community service
- Pass the Rush University Interprofessional course (IPE 502)
You must complete all program requirements within 31.5 months from the time the program is started.