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    Saybrook University
   
 
  Nov 28, 2024
 
2023-2024 Saybrook Academic Catalog Summer Addendum 
    
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2023-2024 Saybrook Academic Catalog Summer Addendum [Archived Catalog]

Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certificate


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Overview of Certificate


The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certificate provides an alternative for individuals who wish to obtain an introduction to integrative and functional approaches to nutrition. The certificate is a 12-credit program which includes four 3-credit hours academic courses. 

Program Learning Outcomes


  1. Apply evidence-based integrative and functional nutrition approaches to comprehensively assess and promote the health and wellness of diverse individuals and communities.   
  2. Critically evaluate and utilize evidence-based resources to inform professional practice.   
  3. Explain the science of integrative and functional nutrition in health promotion and disease prevention and management to lay audiences and health professionals.  
  4. Apply knowledge of biochemical, physiological, and psychosocial sciences to assess nutritional status and design integrative interventions.
  5. Identify and articulate the ethical, humanistic, and legal guidelines for professional nutrition practitioners. 

Career Opportunities


​​The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certificate is not designed to fulfill the current academic requirements for the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) exam, the Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN) credential, or the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN®) credential. 
 
Depending upon each state's specific credentialing and practice requirement, those who complete the Certificate program may consider careers in: 

  • Independent consulting and private practice 
  • Medical centers, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other clinical care settings 
  • Higher education 
  • Health promotion and wellness education programs 
  • Yoga and wellness retreats, sports care facilities 
  • Culinary institutes, agricultural programs, schools, prisons, restaurants and corporate food service establishments 
  • Public health care, community organizations, legislature and policy settings 
  • Natural products and dietary supplement industries 
  • Research and development 
  • Nutrition, science, food, medical writing/journalism (non-technical, technical).​ 

Certificate Requirements


Admissions Requirements


​​Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited university with GPA of 3.0 or above (on a scale of 4.0). 
 
Applicants for the certificate in Integrative and Functional Nutrition must submit: 

  • Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate universities;  
  • 250-500-word personal statement explaining their professional interest in pursuing the certificate in Integrative and Functional Nutrition; 
  • Current resume or CV.​ 

University Learning Experience


Virtual Learning Experience (VLE) - Optional, Community Learning Experience (CLE) - Optional

All new students begin their studies with Welcome Week activities that are held online during the week ahead of the start of the semesters. Participation is strongly encouraged.
No face-to-face residential learning experiences are required for this Certificate.  However, students are invited to attend any of Saybrook’s face-to-face residential learning experiences or virtual learning experiences where they will meet other Saybrook students, faculty, and staff. The integrative and functional nutrition department faculty will offer programming and participate in these learning experiences.

Credits/Hours


​​The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certificate provides an alternative for the individual who wishes to obtain an introduction to integrative and functional approaches to nutrition. The certificate is a 12-credit program, including four academic courses.​ 

Mode of Delivery


Utilizing Canvas as the Learning Management System (LMS), IFN courses are delivered in a mostly asynchronous manner with weekly or biweekly due dates for assignments. IFN courses are supplemented with live Zoom videoconferences. Most IFN courses require attendance at 2-3 live videoconferences.

Length of Certificate


The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certificate provides an alternative for the individual who wishes to obtain a comprehensive introduction to integrative and functional approaches to nutrition. The certificate is a 12-credit program, including four academic courses. Full time students (6 credit hours per semester) will take 2 semesters (about 8 months) to complete the Certificate. Part time students (3 credit hours per semester) will take 4 semesters (about 16 months) to complete the Certificate). 

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