Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance Admission Requirements
Applicants to the Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance program are expected to have a GPA of 2.75 or higher on a 4.0-point scale. Applicants must also have a bachelor’s degree. The Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance program is life-science based. Courses completed in the following areas are recommended: Anatomy, Physiology, Nutrition, Health and other Wellness courses.
Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance Graduation Requirements
To qualify for graduation, degree candidate must have:
*Refer to the MSNHP Student Handbook for more information regarding Progression, Probation, & Dismissal.
Allied Health to Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance “4+1” Program
The Allied Health to Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance (MSNHP) 4+1 program is designed for students who want to earn their Bachelor of Science in Allied Health degree and Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance in five years. Upon graduation, you will have an in-depth understanding of biomechanics, functional anatomy, and movement science, with a specialized focus on the evidence-based foundations of nutrition and human performance.
Core Curriculum (18 hours)
All students in the Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance are required to complete all core curriculum courses in the appropriate sequence. Once the core curriculum and emphasis specific coursework as indicated below under the specific emphases is completed students are eligible to enroll and complete the capstone thesis or internship course.
Sport Nutrition and Performance Concentration (15 hours)
Students that have selected the Sport Nutrition and Performance Concentration must complete 12 hours of courses from concentration course list plus Internship/Thesis unless written approval is attained from the course instructor and graduate program director.
Choose 12 hours from the following concentration course list:
Required: NHPW6700 Internship or NHPW6800 Thesis – 3 s.h.
Health and Wellness Promotion Concentration (15 hours)
Students that have selected the Health and Wellness Promotion Concentration must complete 12 hours of courses from concentration course list plus Internship/Thesis unless written approval is attained from the course instructor and graduate program director.
Choose 12 hours from the following concentration course list:
Required: NHPW6700 Internship or NHPW6800 Thesis – 3 s.h.
Data Science and Health Informatics Concentration (15 hours)
Students that have selected the Data Science and Health Informatics Concentration must complete 12 hours of courses from concentration course list plus Internship/Thesis unless written approval is attained from the course instructor and graduate program director.
Complete 12 hours from the following concentration course list:
Required: NHPW6700 Internship or NHPW6800 Thesis – 3 s.h.
An introduction to the methods of data science through a combination of computational exploration, visualization, and theory. Students will learn scientific computing basics, topics in numerical linear algebra, mathematical probability, statistics, and social and political issues raised by data science. Prerequisites: Prior courses in statistics, calculus and basic programming.
Exploratory data analysis is introduced along with fundamental considerations for data analysis on real data sets. Classical models and techniques for classification are included. Methods of data visualization are introduced. Pre- or Corequisite: DSCI5300
Students will learn skills of data acquisition, methods, of data cleaning, imputing data, data storage and other important issues required to producing usable data sets. Code books, data standards, and markdown files will be introduced as well as the concept of the data lake. Pre- or Corequisite: DSCI5300.
This course will cover fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence including algorithms and tools as well their real-world applications. Topics include intelligent agents, knowledge reasoning, learning, and AI problem solving in vision, language, robotics, medicine, etc. Special emphasis is placed on how AI technologies transform businesses and our day-to-day lives by influencing society’s values. Pre- or Corequisite: DSCI5330.
Designed to explore physiological responses and adaptations to training and performance of endurance, strength, and power modes of exercise. Emphasis is on the metabolic, neurological, endocrine, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. This course is designed to apply physical activity and exercise training principles to sedentary, active, and athletic populations. Offered Fall semester.
Preparing nutritional professionals to select, design, critically analyze and interpret, and apply evidence-based nutrition research to determine evidence-based practice in their field. This course will focus on the appraisal of quality evidence, forming and investigating research questions, and applying research concepts to nutrition, wellness, or human performance peer-reviewed literature.
Examining a detailed study of human physiology and biochemistry of vitamins and minerals, their relationship with proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and how nutrition influences metabolism, and cellular function through the lifecycle. Micronutrients and macronutrients will be discussed in relation to ingestion, digestion, absorption, transportation, and metabolism. The clinical signs and symptoms of nutrition-related disorders and treatments such as adequate diets and Recommended Daily Allowances will be discussed. Offered Spring semester.
This course examines nutrient timing and metabolism during exercise to ensure optimal physical performance. It will explore some of the many factors that influence human physical performance including, but not limited to nutrient timing and regulation of macronutrients and micronutrients, essential and nonessential nutrients including human growth factors and hormones. Recommended dietary intakes and requirements for athletes and the use of supplementation including ergogenic aids will be investigated for human performance training.
The nutritional assessment and nutritional needs for the prevention and intervention of major human diseases with a focus on potential contributors and relationships to intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Alterations in these macronutrients have been linked to pathophysiological changes related to conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type II, metabolic syndrome and even some cancers. This course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of these conditions. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5140 Fundamentals of Nutritional Science.
Utilizing the principles learned in Nutrition and Human Physical Performance and will apply these foundations for the modern athlete. This course will provide hands-on experience in supporting the composition of the human body for various sports and positions via optimizing physical performance. This course will focus on current literature and class presentations for the completion of personalized nutrition plans and recommendations based on case studies presented in this course. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5150 Nutrition and Human Physical Performance.
Exploring concepts of programming and periodization for athletic and recreational populations. Course emphases include practical application for the development of performance programs covering speed, strength, endurance, and power adaptations. Offered Summer semester.
This course is designed to introduce students to the background, basic principles, and methods of health epidemiology, with an emphasis on critical thinking, analytic skills, and application to clinical practice. Topics covered in this course include basic principles of epidemiology; measures of disease frequency; epidemiologic study designs: experimental and observational; bias; confounding; outbreak investigations; screening; causality; and ethical issues in epidemiologic research. In addition, students will develop skills to read, interpret and evaluate health information from published epidemiologic studies. Offered Summer semester.
This course is designed to introduce students to health promotion and the development of a health promotion plan that could be incorporated at an individual, group, or community level. This will be accomplished through implementing basic community health concepts of epidemiology, levels of prevention, and risk assessment within the context of health promotion activities. Topics to be covered include community organization, coalition building, curriculum development, communication theory and technology, social marketing, mass media, and ecological models. Offered Summer semester.
This course is a study of the development of the individual from conception through adulthood. The focus is on biological, social, emotional, and intellectual aspects across the lifespan, and individual application is emphasized, along with the theories and factual content underlying current thinking and research, as well as the processes and influences affecting the developing person. Topics include theories of development, genetics and development, birth and the neonate, cognitive and brain development, early experience, motor development, social and moral development, aging and death. Offered Spring semester.
This course provides the student with the knowledge and tools to properly conduct various aspects of assessment relating to nutrition and human performance. The course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological responses of the body to clinical assessment. The course then instructs the student how to apply these assessments in the development of programs and prescriptions for both a general community population and a clinical population. Offered Summer semester.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the effect of gut microbiome changes and behavior, and the effects of nutrition upon the microbiome and gut-brain axis.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the inflammatory response and dysfunction found in common disorders such as Low back pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches/migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gastrointestinal disorders with a brief review of the basic science and focused on the potential clinical nutritive applications.
This course focuses on nutrigenetics, how genetic differences affect nutrient uptake and metabolism, and nutrigenomics, the effect of diet and food components on gene expression. Students will develop an appreciation of genetic mutation and explain how mutations can influence biochemical pathways and alter an individual's metabolic processes. Possible nutrigenetic and nutrigenomic effects on health and disease will be explored. Genomic testing principles, interpretation and practical application will be provided. Nutriomics the systematic approach to the science that studies the food and nutrition domains comprehensively to improve well-being and health will be explored.
Exploration of the function of vitamins and minerals and their role in the human body with an emphasis on disease treatment and prevention. A detailed study of the physiological and pathological relationship will be examined in the presence of acute or chronic disease. Additionally, this course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of acute and chronic disease. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5200 Micronutrients: Clinical Nutrition I.
Examination of the physiological responses to various methods of recovery and regeneration techniques. An in-depth analysis of recovery literature will guide the development of recovery and regeneration program for the human body. Analyses of fatigue mechanisms, microtraumas, and modalities related to recovery will be completed. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5230 Human and Sports Performance Programming.
This course introduces core topics and current biological, environmental, social, and cultural factors which impact the health of populations across the globe. It introduces key global health concepts and underscores the critical links between health, disease, and socio-economic development. The course also examines challenges associated with global health issues and the global efforts and strategies underway to prevent and control them. Offered Fall semester.
The internship will provide students with a practical, hands-on learning experience to better understand human nutrition and human performance. Students have the opportunity to work in a variety of areas under the supervision of an approved provider or professional. Students will work with the Director of the Nutrition and Human Performance program to ensure that the supervisor holds the appropriate credentials. The Director of the Nutrition and Human Performance program, in some circumstances and occasions, may be able to help students in the placement of internship opportunities. Prerequisites: All required didactic coursework.
This course involves the completion of a research project under the direct supervision of the Thesis Research Committee at Graceland University. Members of this committee will be comprised of the Director of the Nutrition and Human Performance program along with two (2) additional faculty members within the Division of Health and Movement Science. Selection of these faculty members will be based on the area of expertise needed for the student’s research topic. Prerequisites: All required didactic coursework.
An introduction to the methods of data science through a combination of computational exploration, visualization, and theory. Students will learn scientific computing basics, topics in numerical linear algebra, mathematical probability, statistics, and social and political issues raised by data science. Prerequisites: Prior courses in statistics, calculus and basic programming.
Exploratory data analysis is introduced along with fundamental considerations for data analysis on real data sets. Classical models and techniques for classification are included. Methods of data visualization are introduced. Pre- or Corequisite: DSCI5300
Students will learn skills of data acquisition, methods, of data cleaning, imputing data, data storage and other important issues required to producing usable data sets. Code books, data standards, and markdown files will be introduced as well as the concept of the data lake. Pre- or Corequisite: DSCI5300.
This course will cover fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence including algorithms and tools as well their real-world applications. Topics include intelligent agents, knowledge reasoning, learning, and AI problem solving in vision, language, robotics, medicine, etc. Special emphasis is placed on how AI technologies transform businesses and our day-to-day lives by influencing society’s values. Pre- or Corequisite: DSCI5330.
Designed to explore physiological responses and adaptations to training and performance of endurance, strength, and power modes of exercise. Emphasis is on the metabolic, neurological, endocrine, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. This course is designed to apply physical activity and exercise training principles to sedentary, active, and athletic populations. Offered Fall semester.
Preparing nutritional professionals to select, design, critically analyze and interpret, and apply evidence-based nutrition research to determine evidence-based practice in their field. This course will focus on the appraisal of quality evidence, forming and investigating research questions, and applying research concepts to nutrition, wellness, or human performance peer-reviewed literature.
Examining a detailed study of human physiology and biochemistry of vitamins and minerals, their relationship with proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and how nutrition influences metabolism, and cellular function through the lifecycle. Micronutrients and macronutrients will be discussed in relation to ingestion, digestion, absorption, transportation, and metabolism. The clinical signs and symptoms of nutrition-related disorders and treatments such as adequate diets and Recommended Daily Allowances will be discussed. Offered Spring semester.
This course examines nutrient timing and metabolism during exercise to ensure optimal physical performance. It will explore some of the many factors that influence human physical performance including, but not limited to nutrient timing and regulation of macronutrients and micronutrients, essential and nonessential nutrients including human growth factors and hormones. Recommended dietary intakes and requirements for athletes and the use of supplementation including ergogenic aids will be investigated for human performance training.
The nutritional assessment and nutritional needs for the prevention and intervention of major human diseases with a focus on potential contributors and relationships to intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Alterations in these macronutrients have been linked to pathophysiological changes related to conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type II, metabolic syndrome and even some cancers. This course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of these conditions. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5140 Fundamentals of Nutritional Science.
Utilizing the principles learned in Nutrition and Human Physical Performance and will apply these foundations for the modern athlete. This course will provide hands-on experience in supporting the composition of the human body for various sports and positions via optimizing physical performance. This course will focus on current literature and class presentations for the completion of personalized nutrition plans and recommendations based on case studies presented in this course. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5150 Nutrition and Human Physical Performance.
Exploring concepts of programming and periodization for athletic and recreational populations. Course emphases include practical application for the development of performance programs covering speed, strength, endurance, and power adaptations. Offered Summer semester.
This course is designed to introduce students to the background, basic principles, and methods of health epidemiology, with an emphasis on critical thinking, analytic skills, and application to clinical practice. Topics covered in this course include basic principles of epidemiology; measures of disease frequency; epidemiologic study designs: experimental and observational; bias; confounding; outbreak investigations; screening; causality; and ethical issues in epidemiologic research. In addition, students will develop skills to read, interpret and evaluate health information from published epidemiologic studies. Offered Summer semester.
This course is designed to introduce students to health promotion and the development of a health promotion plan that could be incorporated at an individual, group, or community level. This will be accomplished through implementing basic community health concepts of epidemiology, levels of prevention, and risk assessment within the context of health promotion activities. Topics to be covered include community organization, coalition building, curriculum development, communication theory and technology, social marketing, mass media, and ecological models. Offered Summer semester.
This course is a study of the development of the individual from conception through adulthood. The focus is on biological, social, emotional, and intellectual aspects across the lifespan, and individual application is emphasized, along with the theories and factual content underlying current thinking and research, as well as the processes and influences affecting the developing person. Topics include theories of development, genetics and development, birth and the neonate, cognitive and brain development, early experience, motor development, social and moral development, aging and death. Offered Spring semester.
This course provides the student with the knowledge and tools to properly conduct various aspects of assessment relating to nutrition and human performance. The course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological responses of the body to clinical assessment. The course then instructs the student how to apply these assessments in the development of programs and prescriptions for both a general community population and a clinical population. Offered Summer semester.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the effect of gut microbiome changes and behavior, and the effects of nutrition upon the microbiome and gut-brain axis.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the inflammatory response and dysfunction found in common disorders such as Low back pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches/migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gastrointestinal disorders with a brief review of the basic science and focused on the potential clinical nutritive applications.
This course focuses on nutrigenetics, how genetic differences affect nutrient uptake and metabolism, and nutrigenomics, the effect of diet and food components on gene expression. Students will develop an appreciation of genetic mutation and explain how mutations can influence biochemical pathways and alter an individual's metabolic processes. Possible nutrigenetic and nutrigenomic effects on health and disease will be explored. Genomic testing principles, interpretation and practical application will be provided. Nutriomics the systematic approach to the science that studies the food and nutrition domains comprehensively to improve well-being and health will be explored.
Exploration of the function of vitamins and minerals and their role in the human body with an emphasis on disease treatment and prevention. A detailed study of the physiological and pathological relationship will be examined in the presence of acute or chronic disease. Additionally, this course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of acute and chronic disease. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5200 Micronutrients: Clinical Nutrition I.
Examination of the physiological responses to various methods of recovery and regeneration techniques. An in-depth analysis of recovery literature will guide the development of recovery and regeneration program for the human body. Analyses of fatigue mechanisms, microtraumas, and modalities related to recovery will be completed. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5230 Human and Sports Performance Programming.
This course introduces core topics and current biological, environmental, social, and cultural factors which impact the health of populations across the globe. It introduces key global health concepts and underscores the critical links between health, disease, and socio-economic development. The course also examines challenges associated with global health issues and the global efforts and strategies underway to prevent and control them. Offered Fall semester.
The internship will provide students with a practical, hands-on learning experience to better understand human nutrition and human performance. Students have the opportunity to work in a variety of areas under the supervision of an approved provider or professional. Students will work with the Director of the Nutrition and Human Performance program to ensure that the supervisor holds the appropriate credentials. The Director of the Nutrition and Human Performance program, in some circumstances and occasions, may be able to help students in the placement of internship opportunities. Prerequisites: All required didactic coursework.
This course involves the completion of a research project under the direct supervision of the Thesis Research Committee at Graceland University. Members of this committee will be comprised of the Director of the Nutrition and Human Performance program along with two (2) additional faculty members within the Division of Health and Movement Science. Selection of these faculty members will be based on the area of expertise needed for the student’s research topic. Prerequisites: All required didactic coursework.
Three successfully passed courses (grade B or better) warrant completion of Graduate Certificate in Nutrition Human Performance: Emphasis Area (see below). Students may also petition for certificate completion if they drop out of the MS program according to the number of courses they have passed.
Certificate Emphasis Areas:
Examining a detailed study of human physiology and biochemistry of vitamins and minerals, their relationship with proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and how nutrition influences metabolism, and cellular function through the lifecycle. Micronutrients and macronutrients will be discussed in relation to ingestion, digestion, absorption, transportation, and metabolism. The clinical signs and symptoms of nutrition-related disorders and treatments such as adequate diets and Recommended Daily Allowances will be discussed. Offered Spring semester.
This course examines nutrient timing and metabolism during exercise to ensure optimal physical performance. It will explore some of the many factors that influence human physical performance including, but not limited to nutrient timing and regulation of macronutrients and micronutrients, essential and nonessential nutrients including human growth factors and hormones. Recommended dietary intakes and requirements for athletes and the use of supplementation including ergogenic aids will be investigated for human performance training.
The nutritional assessment and nutritional needs for the prevention and intervention of major human diseases with a focus on potential contributors and relationships to intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Alterations in these macronutrients have been linked to pathophysiological changes related to conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type II, metabolic syndrome and even some cancers. This course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of these conditions. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5140 Fundamentals of Nutritional Science.
Utilizing the principles learned in Nutrition and Human Physical Performance and will apply these foundations for the modern athlete. This course will provide hands-on experience in supporting the composition of the human body for various sports and positions via optimizing physical performance. This course will focus on current literature and class presentations for the completion of personalized nutrition plans and recommendations based on case studies presented in this course. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5150 Nutrition and Human Physical Performance.
Exploring concepts of programming and periodization for athletic and recreational populations. Course emphases include practical application for the development of performance programs covering speed, strength, endurance, and power adaptations. Offered Summer semester.
This course provides the student with the knowledge and tools to properly conduct various aspects of assessment relating to nutrition and human performance. The course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological responses of the body to clinical assessment. The course then instructs the student how to apply these assessments in the development of programs and prescriptions for both a general community population and a clinical population. Offered Summer semester.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the effect of gut microbiome changes and behavior, and the effects of nutrition upon the microbiome and gut-brain axis.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the inflammatory response and dysfunction found in common disorders such as Low back pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches/migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gastrointestinal disorders with a brief review of the basic science and focused on the potential clinical nutritive applications.
This course focuses on nutrigenetics, how genetic differences affect nutrient uptake and metabolism, and nutrigenomics, the effect of diet and food components on gene expression. Students will develop an appreciation of genetic mutation and explain how mutations can influence biochemical pathways and alter an individual's metabolic processes. Possible nutrigenetic and nutrigenomic effects on health and disease will be explored. Genomic testing principles, interpretation and practical application will be provided. Nutriomics the systematic approach to the science that studies the food and nutrition domains comprehensively to improve well-being and health will be explored.
Exploration of the function of vitamins and minerals and their role in the human body with an emphasis on disease treatment and prevention. A detailed study of the physiological and pathological relationship will be examined in the presence of acute or chronic disease. Additionally, this course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of acute and chronic disease. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5200 Micronutrients: Clinical Nutrition I.
Examining a detailed study of human physiology and biochemistry of vitamins and minerals, their relationship with proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and how nutrition influences metabolism, and cellular function through the lifecycle. Micronutrients and macronutrients will be discussed in relation to ingestion, digestion, absorption, transportation, and metabolism. The clinical signs and symptoms of nutrition-related disorders and treatments such as adequate diets and Recommended Daily Allowances will be discussed. Offered Spring semester.
This course examines nutrient timing and metabolism during exercise to ensure optimal physical performance. It will explore some of the many factors that influence human physical performance including, but not limited to nutrient timing and regulation of macronutrients and micronutrients, essential and nonessential nutrients including human growth factors and hormones. Recommended dietary intakes and requirements for athletes and the use of supplementation including ergogenic aids will be investigated for human performance training.
The nutritional assessment and nutritional needs for the prevention and intervention of major human diseases with a focus on potential contributors and relationships to intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Alterations in these macronutrients have been linked to pathophysiological changes related to conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type II, metabolic syndrome and even some cancers. This course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of these conditions. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5140 Fundamentals of Nutritional Science.
Utilizing the principles learned in Nutrition and Human Physical Performance and will apply these foundations for the modern athlete. This course will provide hands-on experience in supporting the composition of the human body for various sports and positions via optimizing physical performance. This course will focus on current literature and class presentations for the completion of personalized nutrition plans and recommendations based on case studies presented in this course. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5150 Nutrition and Human Physical Performance.
Exploring concepts of programming and periodization for athletic and recreational populations. Course emphases include practical application for the development of performance programs covering speed, strength, endurance, and power adaptations. Offered Summer semester.
This course provides the student with the knowledge and tools to properly conduct various aspects of assessment relating to nutrition and human performance. The course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological responses of the body to clinical assessment. The course then instructs the student how to apply these assessments in the development of programs and prescriptions for both a general community population and a clinical population. Offered Summer semester.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the effect of gut microbiome changes and behavior, and the effects of nutrition upon the microbiome and gut-brain axis.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the inflammatory response and dysfunction found in common disorders such as Low back pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches/migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gastrointestinal disorders with a brief review of the basic science and focused on the potential clinical nutritive applications.
This course focuses on nutrigenetics, how genetic differences affect nutrient uptake and metabolism, and nutrigenomics, the effect of diet and food components on gene expression. Students will develop an appreciation of genetic mutation and explain how mutations can influence biochemical pathways and alter an individual's metabolic processes. Possible nutrigenetic and nutrigenomic effects on health and disease will be explored. Genomic testing principles, interpretation and practical application will be provided. Nutriomics the systematic approach to the science that studies the food and nutrition domains comprehensively to improve well-being and health will be explored.
Exploration of the function of vitamins and minerals and their role in the human body with an emphasis on disease treatment and prevention. A detailed study of the physiological and pathological relationship will be examined in the presence of acute or chronic disease. Additionally, this course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of acute and chronic disease. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5200 Micronutrients: Clinical Nutrition I.
This program provides Doctor of Physical Therapy students the ability to earn a Master of Science degree in Nutrition and Human Performance from Graceland University in one additional year.
Core Curriculum (19 hours)
All students in the 2+1 Dual degree DPT/MSNHP are required to complete all core curriculum courses in the appropriate sequence.
Each student selects one of the following two concentrations to supplement the core requirements for the degree.
Sport Nutrition and Performance Concentration (14 hours)
Required Courses:
Students must complete THREE selected courses from this list:
Health and Wellness Promotion Concentration (14 hours)
Required Courses:
Students must complete THREE selected courses from this list:
This course introduces preventive health, wellness, and fitness concepts as they relate to injury prevention, nutritional influences, social determinants of health, fitness testing, and exercise prescription in a healthy population. Students develop injury prevention and exercise programs based on examination results and deliver these to the client using proper procedures and patient-centered communication. Through live or virtual cases, students will learn to modify programs to meet the needs of those with various health literacy and health center access. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 1 courses
This course introduces the foundation of general research and evidence-based principles by exploring research methodologies and outcome measures used in health care. Introduces foundational concepts of scientific inquiry for clinicians by creating clinical questions, searching appropriate literature sources, and assessing the evidence quality. Development and use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 1 courses
This course expands elements of applied research design and statistics that foster students to become intelligent consumers of scientific literature. Items related to measurement, research design, statistical analysis, critical inquiry, and strength of evidence are presented. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 2 courses
This course provides an overview of managing people with neuromusculoskeletal chronic pain syndromes and the associated psychosocial factors using emerging and contemporary concepts of pain assessment, treatment, and outcomes. Use of case simulations builds on previous pain management knowledge and core competencies while advancing motivational interviewing and therapeutic alliance skills. This course emphasizes the core knowledge necessary for offering best care of patients and provides integrated interprofessional perspectives on comprehensive pain management designed to improve patient outcomes. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 3 courses
This course advances management strategy prioritization for medically complex patients and integrates culturally competent and mindful patient management concepts throughout. Clinical cases present patients across the lifespan with primary movement system impairments due to diseases, conditions, and comorbidities of the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, integumentary, lymphatic, pulmonary, metabolic /endocrine, reproductive/urologic, and immune systems to strengthen clinical reasoning. Students will incorporate community health informatics and risk mitigation strategies in the design of individual and community-based interventions for effective screening and optimal disease management. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 4 courses.
This course explores the physical therapist’s role as an interdependent practitioner working within a collaborative medical model. By integrating the evidence for medical screening methods, clinical diagnosis, and imaging modalities with clinical cases, students will develop efficient and effective processes for collecting, evaluating, and communicating examination data while advancing differential diagnostic reasoning. Building on prior coursework, clinical scenarios will advance data driven decision-making, applications for wearable and emerging technology, and effective management of patients across all spectrums in the continuum of care. Students will apply wellness, screening, and patient/client education skillsets to improve the health of the GU and/or their local community. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 3 courses.
This course expands on the students’ critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and management of patients with movement system dysfunctions. This course is a progression of techniques related to spinal stabilization, movement impairments, and soft tissue dysfunction. Interventions include a progression of exercise therapy, manual therapy techniques, dry needling, manipulation, mobilization, muscle energy, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, and proprioceptive/vestibular treatments. Students are provided with expanded knowledge and skills from foundational content previously taught. Lab activities use case scenarios to challenge clinical reasoning for the development and progression of comprehensive treatment plans. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 4 courses
Examining a detailed study of human physiology and biochemistry of vitamins and minerals, their relationship with proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and how nutrition influences metabolism, and cellular function through the lifecycle. Micronutrients and macronutrients will be discussed in relation to ingestion, digestion, absorption, transportation, and metabolism. The clinical signs and symptoms of nutrition-related disorders and treatments such as adequate diets and Recommended Daily Allowances will be discussed. Offered Spring semester.
This course examines nutrient timing and metabolism during exercise to ensure optimal physical performance. It will explore some of the many factors that influence human physical performance including, but not limited to nutrient timing and regulation of macronutrients and micronutrients, essential and nonessential nutrients including human growth factors and hormones. Recommended dietary intakes and requirements for athletes and the use of supplementation including ergogenic aids will be investigated for human performance training.
The nutritional assessment and nutritional needs for the prevention and intervention of major human diseases with a focus on potential contributors and relationships to intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Alterations in these macronutrients have been linked to pathophysiological changes related to conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type II, metabolic syndrome and even some cancers. This course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of these conditions. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5140 Fundamentals of Nutritional Science.
Utilizing the principles learned in Nutrition and Human Physical Performance and will apply these foundations for the modern athlete. This course will provide hands-on experience in supporting the composition of the human body for various sports and positions via optimizing physical performance. This course will focus on current literature and class presentations for the completion of personalized nutrition plans and recommendations based on case studies presented in this course. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5150 Nutrition and Human Physical Performance.
This course is designed to introduce students to the background, basic principles, and methods of health epidemiology, with an emphasis on critical thinking, analytic skills, and application to clinical practice. Topics covered in this course include basic principles of epidemiology; measures of disease frequency; epidemiologic study designs: experimental and observational; bias; confounding; outbreak investigations; screening; causality; and ethical issues in epidemiologic research. In addition, students will develop skills to read, interpret and evaluate health information from published epidemiologic studies. Offered Summer semester.
This course is a study of the development of the individual from conception through adulthood. The focus is on biological, social, emotional, and intellectual aspects across the lifespan, and individual application is emphasized, along with the theories and factual content underlying current thinking and research, as well as the processes and influences affecting the developing person. Topics include theories of development, genetics and development, birth and the neonate, cognitive and brain development, early experience, motor development, social and moral development, aging and death. Offered Spring semester.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the effect of gut microbiome changes and behavior, and the effects of nutrition upon the microbiome and gut-brain axis.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the inflammatory response and dysfunction found in common disorders such as Low back pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches/migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gastrointestinal disorders with a brief review of the basic science and focused on the potential clinical nutritive applications.
This course focuses on nutrigenetics, how genetic differences affect nutrient uptake and metabolism, and nutrigenomics, the effect of diet and food components on gene expression. Students will develop an appreciation of genetic mutation and explain how mutations can influence biochemical pathways and alter an individual's metabolic processes. Possible nutrigenetic and nutrigenomic effects on health and disease will be explored. Genomic testing principles, interpretation and practical application will be provided. Nutriomics the systematic approach to the science that studies the food and nutrition domains comprehensively to improve well-being and health will be explored.
Exploration of the function of vitamins and minerals and their role in the human body with an emphasis on disease treatment and prevention. A detailed study of the physiological and pathological relationship will be examined in the presence of acute or chronic disease. Additionally, this course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of acute and chronic disease. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5200 Micronutrients: Clinical Nutrition I.
Examination of the physiological responses to various methods of recovery and regeneration techniques. An in-depth analysis of recovery literature will guide the development of recovery and regeneration program for the human body. Analyses of fatigue mechanisms, microtraumas, and modalities related to recovery will be completed. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5230 Human and Sports Performance Programming.
This course introduces core topics and current biological, environmental, social, and cultural factors which impact the health of populations across the globe. It introduces key global health concepts and underscores the critical links between health, disease, and socio-economic development. The course also examines challenges associated with global health issues and the global efforts and strategies underway to prevent and control them. Offered Fall semester.
This course introduces preventive health, wellness, and fitness concepts as they relate to injury prevention, nutritional influences, social determinants of health, fitness testing, and exercise prescription in a healthy population. Students develop injury prevention and exercise programs based on examination results and deliver these to the client using proper procedures and patient-centered communication. Through live or virtual cases, students will learn to modify programs to meet the needs of those with various health literacy and health center access. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 1 courses
This course introduces the foundation of general research and evidence-based principles by exploring research methodologies and outcome measures used in health care. Introduces foundational concepts of scientific inquiry for clinicians by creating clinical questions, searching appropriate literature sources, and assessing the evidence quality. Development and use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 1 courses
This course expands elements of applied research design and statistics that foster students to become intelligent consumers of scientific literature. Items related to measurement, research design, statistical analysis, critical inquiry, and strength of evidence are presented. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 2 courses
This course provides an overview of managing people with neuromusculoskeletal chronic pain syndromes and the associated psychosocial factors using emerging and contemporary concepts of pain assessment, treatment, and outcomes. Use of case simulations builds on previous pain management knowledge and core competencies while advancing motivational interviewing and therapeutic alliance skills. This course emphasizes the core knowledge necessary for offering best care of patients and provides integrated interprofessional perspectives on comprehensive pain management designed to improve patient outcomes. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 3 courses
This course advances management strategy prioritization for medically complex patients and integrates culturally competent and mindful patient management concepts throughout. Clinical cases present patients across the lifespan with primary movement system impairments due to diseases, conditions, and comorbidities of the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, integumentary, lymphatic, pulmonary, metabolic /endocrine, reproductive/urologic, and immune systems to strengthen clinical reasoning. Students will incorporate community health informatics and risk mitigation strategies in the design of individual and community-based interventions for effective screening and optimal disease management. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 4 courses.
This course explores the physical therapist’s role as an interdependent practitioner working within a collaborative medical model. By integrating the evidence for medical screening methods, clinical diagnosis, and imaging modalities with clinical cases, students will develop efficient and effective processes for collecting, evaluating, and communicating examination data while advancing differential diagnostic reasoning. Building on prior coursework, clinical scenarios will advance data driven decision-making, applications for wearable and emerging technology, and effective management of patients across all spectrums in the continuum of care. Students will apply wellness, screening, and patient/client education skillsets to improve the health of the GU and/or their local community. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 3 courses.
This course expands on the students’ critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and management of patients with movement system dysfunctions. This course is a progression of techniques related to spinal stabilization, movement impairments, and soft tissue dysfunction. Interventions include a progression of exercise therapy, manual therapy techniques, dry needling, manipulation, mobilization, muscle energy, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, and proprioceptive/vestibular treatments. Students are provided with expanded knowledge and skills from foundational content previously taught. Lab activities use case scenarios to challenge clinical reasoning for the development and progression of comprehensive treatment plans. Use of lifelong learning skills is expected. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Trimester 4 courses
Examining a detailed study of human physiology and biochemistry of vitamins and minerals, their relationship with proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, and how nutrition influences metabolism, and cellular function through the lifecycle. Micronutrients and macronutrients will be discussed in relation to ingestion, digestion, absorption, transportation, and metabolism. The clinical signs and symptoms of nutrition-related disorders and treatments such as adequate diets and Recommended Daily Allowances will be discussed. Offered Spring semester.
This course examines nutrient timing and metabolism during exercise to ensure optimal physical performance. It will explore some of the many factors that influence human physical performance including, but not limited to nutrient timing and regulation of macronutrients and micronutrients, essential and nonessential nutrients including human growth factors and hormones. Recommended dietary intakes and requirements for athletes and the use of supplementation including ergogenic aids will be investigated for human performance training.
The nutritional assessment and nutritional needs for the prevention and intervention of major human diseases with a focus on potential contributors and relationships to intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Alterations in these macronutrients have been linked to pathophysiological changes related to conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type II, metabolic syndrome and even some cancers. This course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of these conditions. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5140 Fundamentals of Nutritional Science.
Utilizing the principles learned in Nutrition and Human Physical Performance and will apply these foundations for the modern athlete. This course will provide hands-on experience in supporting the composition of the human body for various sports and positions via optimizing physical performance. This course will focus on current literature and class presentations for the completion of personalized nutrition plans and recommendations based on case studies presented in this course. Offered Summer semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5150 Nutrition and Human Physical Performance.
This course is designed to introduce students to the background, basic principles, and methods of health epidemiology, with an emphasis on critical thinking, analytic skills, and application to clinical practice. Topics covered in this course include basic principles of epidemiology; measures of disease frequency; epidemiologic study designs: experimental and observational; bias; confounding; outbreak investigations; screening; causality; and ethical issues in epidemiologic research. In addition, students will develop skills to read, interpret and evaluate health information from published epidemiologic studies. Offered Summer semester.
This course is a study of the development of the individual from conception through adulthood. The focus is on biological, social, emotional, and intellectual aspects across the lifespan, and individual application is emphasized, along with the theories and factual content underlying current thinking and research, as well as the processes and influences affecting the developing person. Topics include theories of development, genetics and development, birth and the neonate, cognitive and brain development, early experience, motor development, social and moral development, aging and death. Offered Spring semester.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the effect of gut microbiome changes and behavior, and the effects of nutrition upon the microbiome and gut-brain axis.
This course provides a study of basic and emerging scientific literature in respect to the inflammatory response and dysfunction found in common disorders such as Low back pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches/migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gastrointestinal disorders with a brief review of the basic science and focused on the potential clinical nutritive applications.
This course focuses on nutrigenetics, how genetic differences affect nutrient uptake and metabolism, and nutrigenomics, the effect of diet and food components on gene expression. Students will develop an appreciation of genetic mutation and explain how mutations can influence biochemical pathways and alter an individual's metabolic processes. Possible nutrigenetic and nutrigenomic effects on health and disease will be explored. Genomic testing principles, interpretation and practical application will be provided. Nutriomics the systematic approach to the science that studies the food and nutrition domains comprehensively to improve well-being and health will be explored.
Exploration of the function of vitamins and minerals and their role in the human body with an emphasis on disease treatment and prevention. A detailed study of the physiological and pathological relationship will be examined in the presence of acute or chronic disease. Additionally, this course will focus on the evidence-based evaluation of medical nutritional therapy and complementary and alternative nutritional therapies in the treatment of acute and chronic disease. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisites: NHPW5200 Micronutrients: Clinical Nutrition I.
Examination of the physiological responses to various methods of recovery and regeneration techniques. An in-depth analysis of recovery literature will guide the development of recovery and regeneration program for the human body. Analyses of fatigue mechanisms, microtraumas, and modalities related to recovery will be completed. Offered Fall semester. Prerequisite: NHPW5230 Human and Sports Performance Programming.
This course introduces core topics and current biological, environmental, social, and cultural factors which impact the health of populations across the globe. It introduces key global health concepts and underscores the critical links between health, disease, and socio-economic development. The course also examines challenges associated with global health issues and the global efforts and strategies underway to prevent and control them. Offered Fall semester.
