Program Overview
St. Francis Xavier University's Human Nutrition program provides a comprehensive foundation in food and nutrition science, combined with social science perspectives and practical skills. Students can specialize in dietetics, health sciences, food entrepreneurship, or food and society, and pursue careers in nutrition, public health, food industry, and more. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Focus:
To equip students with a strong scientific foundation in food and nutrition, combined with social science perspectives, communication skills, and an understanding of ways to effect individual and social change.
Objectives:
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of nutrients in health and disease.
- Develop practical skills in food preparation, analysis, and communication.
- Foster critical thinking abilities and a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Professional work experience through co-op education.
- 5th year Human Kinetics degree option for sport nutrition careers.
- 5th year Business degree option for the food industry and entrepreneurial careers.
- Preparation for graduate school and careers in education.
- Research experience with opportunities to publish findings.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Focus on foundational knowledge in food and nutrition science.
- Explore the role of nutrients in a healthy diet.
- Study the physical and chemical properties of food.
- Develop key skills in the food lab.
- Take courses in humanities and social sciences to understand the behavioural, social, political, and economic factors impacting food choices and health-related behaviours.
Concentrations:
- Dietetics: Qualifies students for the integrated dietetic training program to become a Registered Dietitian.
- Health Sciences: Prepares students for careers in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and allied health professions.
- Food Entrepreneurship: Grooms students for careers in the food industry (product development & evaluation, food safety) or starting their own food or health-related business.
- Food & Society: Examines food and health from diverse perspectives in science, social science, food & health policy, and climate & environment.
- Minor in Arts or Science (pre-Education): Allows students to pursue a Minor in an Arts or Science subject of their choice, preparing them for education and other professional careers.
Second Degree Options:
- Human Kinetics: Ideal for those pursuing careers in sport nutrition or related fields.
- Entrepreneurship: Equips students with business modelling, start-up data analysis, financial analysis, and dynamic communication skills for launching a start-up or working in a growing venture.
Assessment:
Assessment methods:
- Written exams
- Assignments
- Presentations
- Laboratory reports
- Practical assessments
Assessment criteria:
- Knowledge of theoretical concepts
- Ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication and presentation skills
- Professionalism and ethical conduct
Teaching:
Teaching methods:
- Interactive lectures
- Small group tutorials
- Laboratory sessions
- Field trips
- Guest speakers
- Case studies
- Problem-based learning
Faculty:
- Experts in their respective fields
- Committed to student success
- Active in research and scholarship
Unique approaches:
- Emphasis on hands-on learning
- Integration of theory and practice
- Focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment
Careers:
Potential career paths:
- Dietitian
- Nutritionist
- Public health worker
- Food scientist
- Food educator
- Health promoter
- (Additional career options)
Opportunities:
- Work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, schools, food industry, and research institutions.
- Pursue further education and specialization in areas such as sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, or geriatric nutrition.
- Start their own businesses or consulting practices.
Outcomes:
- Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the field of nutrition and dietetics.
- Many graduates go on to pursue further education and professional development opportunities.
- StFX graduates are highly regarded by employers for their strong academic foundation, practical skills, and commitment to professional excellence.
Other:
Antigonish Farmers Market:
Nutrition students work with farmers, food producers, and various communities to promote healthy eating in the region.
Research opportunities:
Students can participate in research projects with faculty members, gaining valuable experience in research methods and data analysis.
X-Ring:
Graduates receive the X-Ring, a symbol of StFX's commitment to social justice and community mindedness.
Alumni network:
Graduates join a strong network of alumni working in diverse fields of nutrition and health.