Two Nutrition Programs Added at UB

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Two new programs in nutrition have been approved at the University at Buffalo beginning this academic year.

Both programs, a five-year bachelor's/master's degree in exercise nutrition and a dietetic internship, are being offered through the Physical Therapy, Exercise and Nutrition Sciences (PTENS) Department in the UB School of Health Related Professions.

The exercise nutrition option combines an undergraduate degree in exercise science with a master's degree in nutrition. Frank J. Cerny, Ph.D., chair of the department, predicted that the combined degree will be a popular option.

"The study of the role of nutrition in exercise science has become increasingly important as we learn more about how nutritional components affect cell function," Cerny said. "The interaction between nutrition and exercise in wellness and disease promises many research and job opportunities for our students."

Peter Horvath, Ph.D., UB associate professor of nutrition and physiology, will direct the program, which begins officially in the 2001 spring semester. The department expects to accept between five and 10 applicants a year.

The dietetic internship program provides students from across the nation who already have a bachelor's degree in nutrition placement in settings where they can complete the required 928 hours of supervised practice needed to qualify for the registered dietician's exam. In addition, students can earn an advanced certificate, which involves an additional 15 credit hours of graduate courses through UB's nutrition program.

The internship program begins in August. Mary Platek, clinical instructor in the department, will be the director.