Education
Advancing the Science and Practice of Human Nutrition
The Institute of Human Nutrition (IHN) delivers exceptional academic and professional education in human nutrition, with a mission to deepen understanding of how nutrition influences health, disease prevention, and therapeutic care. Our programs prepare graduates to become leaders across clinical, research, public health, academic, and industry settings.
Graduate Programs That Shape Future Leaders
IHN's MS in Human Nutrition and PhD in Metabolism and Nutrient Biology attract talented students from across the country and around the world. Coming from leading universities and diverse academic backgrounds, our students join a rigorous, interdisciplinary learning environment that blends foundational science with real-world application.
World-Class Faculty and Mentorship
Our faculty and thesis mentors include more than 100 members from 25 departments and schools across Columbia University Irving Medical Center. This collaborative network brings together experts in medicine, epidemiology, biochemistry, public health, behavioral science, genetics, pediatrics, and more. All core IHN faculty hold PhD or MD degrees and are recognized leaders in their fields. They provide students with exceptional training, mentorship, and opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research.
Interdisciplinary Learning at Its Core
IHN’s curriculum is designed to reflect the dynamic nature of the nutrition field. Students learn from:
- Clinician-scientists conducting cutting-edge research
- Public health leaders addressing nutrition-related disparities
- Bench scientists uncovering molecular drivers of disease
- Industry and community partners advancing applied nutrition practice
Guest lecturers from academic institutions, hospitals, government agencies, and professional organizations enrich the classroom experience with diverse perspectives.
A Collaborative Community
Students at IHN join a supportive academic community grounded in scientific excellence and shared purpose. Whether in the classroom, the clinic, or the lab, our students and faculty work together to explore how nutrition influences health across the lifespan—and how evidence-based nutrition science can transform clinical practice and public health.
