Skip to main content
5 answers
6
Updated 1100 views

Is there a career that combines both political science and nutrition?

Hi! Im a college student that is interested in both nutrition science and politicla science. I don't want to work in a lab, and wanted to see if theres any career opportunities that combine both of these!
#science #political-science #nutrition

Thank you comment icon Tufts University in the Boston area used to be into this kind of combined program, at least to some extent. This was man years ago, so not sure about the current status. Best of luck to you. Mark J. Hovee, Psy.D. Mark Hovee

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

6

5 answers


0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Macy,

Exploring Career Paths at the Intersection of Political Science and Nutrition

As a college student with a keen interest in both nutrition science and political science, you might be wondering about potential career paths that merge these two disciplines. Although there might not be a specific job title that perfectly encapsulates both areas, there are numerous roles that allow you to engage with both fields.

1. Role of a Public Health Policy Analyst

Public health policy analysts are instrumental in creating and executing policies and programs aimed at enhancing public health and well-being. Their focus areas might include nutrition, food security, and obesity prevention. By integrating political science and nutrition, you can advocate for policies and regulations that foster healthier food environments and tackle nutrition-related challenges.

2. Food and Nutrition Policy Specialist: A Key Role

Food and nutrition policy specialists collaborate with government bodies, non-profit organizations, and private firms to design and implement policies concerning food and nutrition. This could involve initiatives related to food safety, food security, and nutrition education. In this capacity, your understanding of political science can help you navigate the intricate policy landscape and further nutrition-related objectives.

3. Public Health Dietitian or Nutritionist: A Unique Blend

Dietitians and nutritionists have the opportunity to work in diverse public health environments, including local and state health departments, hospitals, and community-based organizations. By integrating political science into your nutrition work, you can champion policies and programs that enhance access to healthy foods and bolster the overall health of communities.

Key Reference Titles:

“Public Health Policy Analyst: Merging Political Science and Nutrition”

This piece delves into the role of public health policy analysts and how they can leverage their political science knowledge to advocate for policies addressing nutrition-related issues.
“Food and Nutrition Policy Specialist: Linking Political Science and Nutrition”

This resource delves into the career of food and nutrition policy specialists and how they can utilize political science to further nutrition-related objectives.
“Public Health Dietitian or Nutritionist: A Fusion of Political Science and Nutrition Expertise”

This article underscores the role of dietitians and nutritionists in public health and how incorporating political science can support their advocacy for policies that improve access to healthy foods and boost community health.

Remember to take a look at my autobiography in the About James section. It details the foods that should be consumed more frequently to maximize the nutrients that impact academic behavior and physical performance. Thank you.

May God Bless You Abundantly!
James.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Anya’s Answer

Hi Macy! A good option would be a position within health policy, such as research, advocacy, or reform. A neat focus may be how to may be how to make nutritious/healthier foods accessible to more communities (think: food deserts). Another option could be developing nutrition plans/protocol for schools or other organizations on national policy level. I'd imagine most research opportunities would not be centralized in a lab, but out working with the community. But if you're totally opposed to research, policy creation and reform are good options!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jeremy’s Answer

Yes, there are career opportunities that have both nutrition science and political science involved. I would try to google "nutrition policy jobs" to find your dream job. The following site looks promising: https://unjobs.org/themes/nutrition-policy. You may also find some jobs from https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/public-health-nutrition-jobs/. I hope this helps! :D
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Vern’s Answer

Definition of political is "relating to the government or the public affairs of a country" and definition of science is "systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment." Note this is not about democrats, republicans, greens, or libertarians. Put a little differently. political science is about how a society makes decisions based on objective research and "rational" thought.

Political science as skill is useful in every large organization and particularly useful in large government agencies such as United States Department of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, state and local public health organizations, and some international organizations.

With regard to education suggest you work toward a BS in Political Science while picking up some classes in nutrition, international studies, and public policy. Also, try for internships at the above types of organizations.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Peregrin’s Answer

As someone with a political science degree and living in the greater Washington DC area, I would say you have lots of options, and more than a few may even offer internships for you to try while in college.

As noted in some other response, political science, as a discipline, can spill over into many different careers having nothing to do with politics. That said, assuming you want to pursue something political that ties to nutrition, you can work for nutrition companies in the public policy group, which basically works with lobbyists (or lobbies themselves) to promote legislation that is in the perceived interest of the company. This can be at a national or a state level.

Alternatively, there are probably several associations (thinks American Medical Association, American Bar Association, etc...) who also have policy groups and do lobbying. They typically focus on the industry as a whole, but can promote their interests at Federal and State levels. In that type of organization, you might develop policy, lobby, or coordinate in campaigns.

You could join a lobbying firm (often a consulting firm that specializes in a particular area). These are the firms hired by the companies or associations who they may engage to draft policy or lobby for their particular desired outcome.

These are the traditional political science with some additional interest route. You could also go on to do law or journalism focused in the area of interest.

Best of luck to you!

Peregrin recommends the following next steps:

Do some research on associations that are focused on nutrition and where they work (Fed or State)
Reach out to your State or Congressional representative to ask which groups they hear from on issue of Nutrition, both locally and in DC
See if any of those organizations offer internships or support volunteering.
0