The Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University was established in 1978 with the mission of bringing together biomedical, social, political, and behavioral scientists to conduct research, educational, and community-service programs to improve the nutritional health and well-being of populations throughout the world.

From its first class of 17 students, the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy has matured to a student body with over 300 students and 1800 alumni representing 34 countries since 1978. Master of Science and Doctoral degree programs are offered in the social and biological sciences. Specialized training programs are available for physicians pursuing doctoral degrees in human nutrition and graduates of bachelor degree nutrition programs who wish to become registered dietitians.