Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences
Our Mission
The mission of the Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences is to improve the health and wellness of human populations through excellence in dynamic, competency-based instruction, exemplary service, innovative and applied research, evidence-based practical application in health careers, and leadership to the professional health community.
Video featuring the Department of Health & Nutrition Sciences
Fall 2009 - Here is a recent video of current students and Dr. Willis J. McAleese describing the various programs offered through the department. Special recognition goes to members of the ISU Public Health Student Association and the ISU Dietetics Club for this production.
About Us
The Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences offers baccalaureate degrees in health education and in dietetics, post-graduate dietetic internships, and graduate degrees in health education and in public health.
The School Health Emphasis of the Undergraduate Health Education Program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Students may choose from two emphases: 1) school health or 2) community/worksite health. An addiction studies option is also available.
The Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Dietetics Education of the American Dietetics Association. Students completing their B.S. degree are eligible to apply for dietetic internships.
The Dietetic Internship (DI) Program provides a supervised postgraduate practical experience preparinginterns for successful completion of the registration exam and entry-level practice.
Graduate degrees are offered through a Master of Health Education(MHE) and a Master of Public Health(MPH). To learn more about these graduate programs, please click on their respective links. Distance learning through the Idaho State University-Boise Campus makes the attainment of the MPH degree more accessible outside of Pocatello and Idaho Falls.
Department Objectives
Health is a dynamic multi-dimensional measure of the quality of life rather than simply a freedom from illness. The Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences promotes a holistic approach to health which focuses on positive health habits and lifestyle. This includes incorporating knowledge and skills, which enables the individual to assume personal responsibility for health decisions with strategies that combine educational, political, regulatory, and organizational supports for actions and conditions conducive to the health of individuals, groups, or communities. Disease prevention/health promotion coupled with the treatment of diseases and disorders enables a person to achieve a healthy happy, productive life in all respects.