Biology + Nutrition and Health Promotion (4+1)

Studying biology alongside nutrition helps you see how food really works in the body. You’ll learn how nutrients are absorbed and turned into energy, which impacts everything from fitness to long-term health. 

Simmons University’s combined Bachelor of Science in Biology and Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion (4+1) gives you the scientific tools to help people live healthier lives. You’ll be ready for careers in public health, hospitals, schools, community organizations, private practice, and the food industry.

In this accelerated program, you can earn both your BS in biology and MS in nutrition in just five years. You will:

• Gain a strong foundation in the basic principles of biology, including the structure, biochemistry, function, and metabolism of cells
• Learn in a community committed to advancing women and gender equity
• Receive guidance from dedicated faculty and connect to Boston-area internships

As an undergraduate, you’ll partner with your academic advisor to map out your coursework. By finishing prerequisites in your first three years and taking two graduate courses during your senior year, you’ll save both time and tuition.

BS in Biology

Life sciences are crucial to advancing the fields of health and wellness. A BS in biology will provide you with a strong foundation in biological principles and methodology within a student-centered classroom, laboratory, and research experience. 

In our program, you will:

• explore diverse topics, including organismal diversity in the environment, cell biology, conservation biology, and genetics
• Receive one-on-one mentorship and support from expert faculty
• Gain hands-on experience in Boston’s world-class hospitals and research centers

MS in Nutrition and Health Promotion

In our master’s degree program, you’ll examine the science of nutrition and its impact on health promotion. You’ll study both theory and practice — learning how to critically evaluate research and apply it in real-world settings. The program offers options for both on-campus and fully-online study.

You can customize your degree by choosing one of two tracks:

• Applied Nutrition Science: Build skills to interpret nutrition research and apply it in clinical, community, and practice environments.
• Entrepreneurship: Gain the tools to design innovative ventures in nonprofit, for-profit, or government sectors. This track includes coursework in the Simmons School of Management and culminates with a business plan.

Graduates pursue careers in public health, hospitals, schools, community organizations, private practice, and the food industry.