University of Washington launches Bachelor of Science in Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health in autumn 2026 

New degree option expands opportunities for students interested in health professions, nutrition, food systems, public health, and research, while building on the success of the existing FSNH major. 

Beginning in autumn 2026, the University of Washington will offer a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health (FSNH), giving students a new degree option within one of the university’s fastest-growing undergraduate programs. The BS option joins the existing Bachelor of Arts (BA) in FSNH, allowing students to choose the degree that best aligns with their academic interests and career goals.  

Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health examines the relationships among food, nutrition, public health, sustainability, policy, equity, and the environment. The new BS shares the same interdisciplinary FSNH core curriculum as the BA, while providing additional coursework in biology, chemistry, physiology, analytical methods, and related sciences. The degree is designed for students seeking stronger preparation for health professions, dietetics, research careers, and graduate study.  

The launch of the BS reflects the continued growth and evolution of the FSNH major. Since graduating its first cohort in 2020, the program has experienced substantial enrollment growth and increasing student interest in science-focused paths related to food systems, nutrition, and health. The addition of the BS expands those opportunities while maintaining the broad, systems-oriented approach that has become a hallmark of FSNH.  

“Students come to FSNH with a wide range of interests and career goals,” said Jennifer Otten, professor and FSNH undergraduate program coordinator. “By offering both a BA and a BS, we’re expanding opportunities while maintaining the interdisciplinary foundation that makes our program distinctive. Students can now choose the pathway that best supports their interests, whether they are drawn to health professions, research, public health, sustainability, policy, or systems change.”

Students entering UW in autumn 2026 and eligible current students will be able to pursue either the BA or BS in Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health. Together, the two degrees provide flexible options for students preparing to address some of today’s most pressing food, nutrition, health, and sustainability challenges.  

Learn more about the new BS degree option in the Food Systems major.

September 16, 2026