Family, Consumer and Nutritional Sciences (FCSN) Vision and Mission
Vision - To be an innovative department renowned for rigorous, diverse programs of study steeped in the Catholic liberal arts tradition and distinguished by exemplary graduates responsibly engaged in the world.
Mission - Founded first on Catholic liberal arts tradition and offering rigorous programs of study, the Family, Consumer and Nutritional Sciences (FCNS) department educates women to be professional, ethical leaders. Grounded in science, the students become content experts with an innovative mindset and professional voice. The curriculum empowers students to understand and reflect upon the multi-faceted issues facing individuals and families today, challenging graduates to advocate for the dear neighbor without distinction in a socially responsible manner. Strong inter-professional and community collaborations prepare women for transformational leadership, life-long learning and a commitment to sustainability in the global context.
Why St. Kate’s
No matter what you choose as your path for further study — medical school or graduate school in food science — the food and nutrition: science major gives you the foundation you need, fulfilling prerequisites for both.
A different approach to pre-med
The food and nutrition: science major focuses on the workings of the human body, of which nutrition is a key element. It is a departure from traditional pre-medicine coursework that focuses on plants, taking a big-picture, physiology-based systems approach where you will learn the inner workings of the body. The curriculum also gets down to the cellular level, providing important context if you’re considering a career in allied health professions.
Responding to changing priorities
In recent years, more emphasis has been placed on preventative health than ever before and patients are asking more about how diet and nutrition affect their health. Doctors with a background in food and nutrition will have the background to better advise patients on nutritional issues.
Faculty-student research and independent study
Food and nutrition: science majors may choose to take advantage of St. Kate’s small class sizes to work one-on-one with a faculty member to conduct research or conduct an independent study project in food science or nutrition.
Recent independent study projects include a literature review of world health and a study of the nutrition status of women with HIV and the effects on their offspring.
Strong food science background
If you're interested in food science or food engineering, this major will give you a strong footing for graduate programs in the discipline, supported by biology, chemistry and physiology.
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