All undergraduate students at Rutgers may choose to Minor in Sports Nutrition. This minor prepares students to understand and apply evidence-based nutrition strategies that optimize physical performance, recovery, and lifelong wellness. The curriculum integrates foundational nutrition science with exercise physiology and practical application to support careers and advanced study in health professions, fitness, wellness, coaching, and nutrition-related fields.
The learning goals for this minor are as follows:
- Apply foundational principles of nutrition and exercise physiology to support physical activity, athletic performance, recovery, and overall health.
- Evaluate evidence-based sports nutrition strategies related to energy needs, hydration, supplementation, and nutrient timing for diverse athletic and physically active populations.
- Interpret and communicate scientific information in sport nutrition while distinguishing credible recommendations from nutrition misinformation and unsupported claims.
- Recognize ethical, cultural, and professional considerations in sport nutrition practice, including athlete health and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Required Courses
- 11:709:235 Introduction to Sports Nutrition (3)
- 11:709:255 Nutrition & Health (3)
- 01:377:334 Physical Activity & Health (3)
- 11:709:475/01:377:475 Nutrition & Fitness (3)
Two (2) additional electives (minimum of 6 credits) selected from the following:
- 11:709:245 Food Customs and Nutrition Equity (3)
- 11:709:345 Lifespan Nutrition (3)
- 11:709:400 Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients (3)
- 11:709:401 Advanced Nutrition: Micronutrients & Energy (3)
- 11:709:493:03/494:03 Research in Nutrition: Sports Nutrition Field Work Experience (1 to 3)
- 01:377:170 Principles of Strength and Conditioning (1.5)
- 01:377:301 Psychology of Sport and Exercise (3)
- 01:377:304 Exercise and Aging (3)
- 01:377:336 Sleep, Health and Performance (3)
- 01:377:370 Exercise Physiology (3)
- 01:377:455 Exercise Psychology (3)