Prerequisites
Can I apply to the program while I'm taking the prerequisite courses?
Yes, you may be conditionally accepted into the program. Prerequisite courses must be completed and proof submitted prior to beginning program coursework.
Are the prerequisites available online at USU?
Most prerequisite courses are available online, although some courses are face-to-face only. You can find additional information about which prerequisites are available online on the prerequisites page.
Do I have to complete my prerequisite coursework through USU?
No, coursework completed at a different academic institution can be transferred to USU.
How do I know if the courses I took at a different university will transfer?
You can use the USU transfer guide to verify the courses will transfer to USU. If your course isn’t in the transfer guide, you can refer to the USU catalog to compare course descriptions. If a course does not transfer to USU but you feel the course is comparable, please email the course description and syllabus to maryann.schneider@usu.edu for additional review.
How long do the prerequisites take to complete?
The time required to complete prerequisite courses depends on how many courses will need to be completed. If you need to complete all chemistry prerequisites, it will take a minimum of 3 semesters.
I can’t find an online option for Food Literacy / Culinary Basics at a university near me. Is there another way to complete this prerequisite?
Yes. Courses from non-academic sources or technical colleges can be completed to fulfill this requirement. See the prerequisites page to find examples of courses that will meet the requirements.
Program Coursework
I work full time and won’t be able to take a full course load - can I take longer than 1 year to complete the program?
Yes. You can take up to 3 years to complete the program coursework.
Can I begin the program in the spring semester?
You can, however, the only course offered in the spring that is not part of a series is NDFS 3070, so that is the only course you'll be able to take in the spring semester without having completed the fall courses.
Program Costs
What is the cost of the program?
The tuition and fee schedule for USU online programs is available here.

