Nutrition, minor

Nutrition, minor

Program Overview

How can we use nutrition to optimize athletic performance? How do dietary patterns differ across cultures? How does socioeconomic status impact food availability and dietary patterns? How do government policies impact consumer food options and choices? How can I create a food related business that is profitable and serves my community? If these types of questions intrigue you, or you are interested in developing a healthy, balanced lifestyle and helping others do the same, consider adding a nutrition minor.

The minor program in nutrition from PLNU features a comprehensive study of the fundamental principles of food, nutritional requirements, physiology, business, and community. Students choose from 1 of 3 emphases including: Sports Nutrition, Community Nutrition, or Food Services. You'll also benefit from taking courses that aim to strategically combine theory with practical application centered around professional preparedness.

Pathways in Nutrition

The Healing Power of Food: Alumni Using Food to Better the Health of Others
Is Adding a Minor to Your Degree Worth It?

Purpose in Practice

"Craving for Learning"
"Compassionate Approach"
"Health Inspired"
Articles (3)
Quotes (3)
The Healing Power of Food: Alumni Using Food to Better the Health of Others Discover
Is Adding a Minor to Your Degree Worth It? Learn more about college minors, how to add a minor to your degree, and how future employers see value in adding a college minor to your degree. Discover
A Balanced Diet[itian] As Cindy Swann, associate professor and director of PLNU’s Didactic Program in Dietetics, recaps her academic and professional journey, she recognizes the unorthodox nature of it all. Discover
Craving for Learning
"My major and minor at PLNU, coupled with going to culinary school has helped me get the jobs I have had in the food service industry. It’s also helped me learn to keep my eyes open and have a constant crave for learning"
Matt Arnold Nutrition B.S.
Compassionate Approach
"Being at Point Loma really pushed me in all areas of my life. My nutrition professors presented so many options within our field and taught us to be open-minded about the ways we can be present. Many of my experiences working as a Resident Assistant prepared me for my career and taught me how to approach confrontation with a fine balance between direct boundaries and compassion. I am who I am today because of the time, energy, and resources that PLNU poured into me during my time there."
Sammi Montag Dietetics B.S.
Health Inspired
"What keeps me inspired is helping promote better health for others and seeing their lives improved and hopefully extended. God tells us that we are spiritual bodies and that He lives within us. I think as Christians, we should take care of our bodies as best we can, so we can be witnesses for Him."
Jennifer Nemeth Dietetics B.S.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Nutrition, minor program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Career Opportunities

With an increasing global awareness of how decisions around food directly affect health and well-being, there is a greater demand for professionals with in-depth knowledge about nutrition. Department of Kinesiology graduates are sought out because of their deeply rooted passion for serving people and promoting healthy lifestyle choices.

A minor in nutrition can be a useful complement to a variety of careers, including:

  • Hospital Dietitian
  • Food Preparation Facility Manager
  • Nutritionist
  • Nutrition Consultant
  • Food Science Researcher

Department Faculty

Get Involved

PLNU students in cap and gown celebrate receiving their diplomas during commencement

Phi Upsilon Omicron

Phi Upsilon Omicron is the national honors society in family and consumer sciences for PLNU students in child development, dietetics, and nutrition and food.

PLNU professor, Cindy Swann, helps a student prepare in meal in a food and nutrition class

Student Dietetics Association

The Student Dietetics Association is the perfect opportunity to connect and network with students who share your passion for nutrition.

Athletes march in the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics at the PLNU track and field in San Diego

Special Olympics

Participate in the transformative power of sports as you cheer athletes onto victory at the San Diego County Regional Special Olympics Track Meet.