WASHINGTON—One of the first college-level courses on vegetarian nutrition to be given online will begin a new session on Aug. 21. The course is taught by Brie Turner-McGrievy, M.S., R.D., a staff dietitian with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) and an adjunct faculty member of the University of Alabama. Ms. Turner-McGrievy was recently featured in People magazine for her work with PCRM.

"Vegetarian Nutrition" is geared toward nutrition and medical students and health professionals, but will appeal to anyone with an interest in health and nutrition issues. Although it is sponsored by the University of Alabama, it is open to interested parties anywhere in the world via the Internet. Here are the details:

What: College-level online nutrition course taught through the College of Human Environmental Sciences at the University of Alabama

When: Course begins Aug. 21, 2002 and ends Dec. 13, 2002

College credits: Three credits

Course content:

• Facts on how vegetarian nutrition helps prevent and treat heart disease, cancer, and other serious illnesses.
• Information on how vegetarian diets aid weight loss and provide the base for optimal health.
• Skill development in menu-planning, diet evaluation, and counseling clients.

Tuition: $410 ($130 per semester hour, plus $20 registration fee)

How to enroll: www.VegetarianCourse.org

Founded in 1985, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is a nonprofit health organization that promotes preventive medicine, conducts clinical research,and encourages higher standards for ethics and effectiveness in research.