Dr. Kirsten Blatchford

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences

My doctoral studies in Health Sciences allowed me to research public health and nutrition, with a focus on chronic disease prevention and health behavior change. My dissertation focused on nutrition knowledge levels and food choice factors, which has been recently published. This academic experience excelled my skills in research methodology, data analysis, and health program evaluation, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of health policy and education.

Master of Science in Health Education and Promotion

Building on my undergraduate studies, I pursued a Master of Science in Health Education and Promotion, where I focused on developing evidence-based health promotion programs aimed at improving community health outcomes. I gained expertise in behavioral health theories, program development, and public health communication. This degree laid the groundwork for my career as a health educator and promoter, and prepared me to become a Certified Health Education Specialist.

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics

My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, where I gained a foundation in the biological and clinical aspects of nutrition, along with practical training in dietetic practice. This degree provided me with an understanding of macronutrients, micronutrients, and metabolism, as well as a comprehensive education in clinical nutrition, food science, and dietary assessment. It also prepared me to become a Registered Dietetic Technician.

Professional Experience

I have over four years of experience in the healthcare field, working in roles that span undergraduate/graduate teaching, clinical nutrition, healthcare administration, research, and personal nutrition coaching.

• Adjunct Professor at Purdue Global University (current)

  • Teach undergraduate/graduate courses in Health Promotion/Education

  • Educate and mentor students in public health principles, program planning, and health behavior theories

• Dietetic Technician at VA Hospital

  • Conducted nutritional assessments and provided patient education

  • Collaborated with healthcare teams on care plans for veterans

• Healthcare Administrator at Home Health Agency

  • Managed care coordination for fragile populations

  • Ensured compliance with Medicare/Medicaid standards and conducted quality assurance audits

• Health Science Research at University of Central Arkansas & Liberty University

  • Conducted literature reviews, study design, and data analysis

  • Contributed to academic publications and presented research findings

• Personal Nutrition Coach (Freelance)

  • Provided personalized nutrition counseling and behavioral coaching

  • Created tailored nutrition plans for weight management and disease prevention

Skills and Certifications

Skills & Expertise

• Clinical Nutrition: Nutritional assessments, patient care plans, dietary education for chronic conditions, and nutrition intervention.

• Health Promotion: Designing and implementing health education programs, behavior change strategies, and wellness initiatives.

• Healthcare Administration: Care coordination, compliance with healthcare regulations, quality assurance, and patient management.

• Research: Conducting literature reviews, study design, data analysis, and contributing to academic publications in health sciences.

• Nutrition Coaching: Personalized nutrition counseling, meal planning, and behavior change support for individual health goals.

• Teaching & Mentorship: Educating undergraduate students in Health Promotion/Science, creating course materials, and fostering student engagement.

• Public Speaking & Communication: Delivering health education workshops and presentations to diverse audiences.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Utilizing software for statistical analysis (e.g., SPSS, Excel) and presenting findings in clear, actionable formats.

Certifications

• Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
  National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC)

• Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR)
  Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)

Certifications In-Progress

• Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
  National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)

• Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC)
  National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)