Masters In Nutrition Online

Nutrition, as a profession, is much more than making sure someone has a healthy diet. The field encompasses a host of areas including biomedical research, community education, and clinical practice. Earning a master’s in nutrition can open the door to advanced careers in clinical settings (think hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities), food safety (from farm to table oversight), research, and education. To help you decide if earning this degree is right for you, we’ve outlined some of the most common questions about this degree program.

There is a huge demand for qualified professionals with master’s degrees in nutrition. Whether you hope to specialize in clinical nutrition or work in food safety, a graduate degree from an accredited school will be required for most entry-level positions. This guide will help you:


Masters in Nutrition online

Online Masters Degree In Nutrition

Being a nutritionist and a dietitian is a rewarding career. These professionals help others address and manage their eating habits in order to achieve their health and wellness goals. A degree in this field, either at the bachelor’s or master’s level, can prepare you for this exciting job.

The bachelor’s degree meets entry-level requirements for dieticians, but a master’s degree often lays the groundwork for advanced skills and knowledge, which often lead to increased opportunities and earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the highest-earning professionals in these positions earn more than $87,000 a year.

15 Best Masters in Nutrition Online Programs of 2022

1. North Carolina State University

NC State University, located in Raleigh, offers an online master’s degree in nutrition. This non thesis, applied program requires 36 credits, six of which must be spent on a directed practicum, internship, or an approved and related individual project.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$462 per credit (in-state); $1,311 per credit (out-of-state)

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

36 credits

Students can concentrate on human nutrition or animal nutrition. Students can earn a professional science master’s degree by completing a professional skills component.

Depending on the student’s area of emphasis, coursework focuses on nutrition and other related sciences. Because of the broad nature of both human and animal nutrition, the program includes classes from a variety of university departments.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, through the Commission on Colleges at NC State, accredits the university regionally.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE required

Program: Master of Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 81%
Location: Raleigh, NC

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2. University of Georgia

UGA, which is based in Athens, offers an online master of science in foods and nutrition. Participants in the program take classes such as nutrition and obesity across the lifespan, community nutrition, and childhood and adolescent nutrition.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$629 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

1 year

Points
Credits

30 credits

In addition, students take a research methods course and 8-9 credits of electives.

The program is used by the majority of students to prepare them for careers in community nutrition. Many graduates are qualified to work as school nutrition directors in Georgia or as extension and outreach coordinators. Graduates may also work in other nutritional roles in the public sector or for private companies that offer comparable positions.

The University of Georgia is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE requirement currently waived due to COVID-19

Program: Master of Science in Foods and Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 86%
Location: Athens, GA

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3. Auburn University

Auburn University, located in Alabama, offers an online master’s degree in nutrition. Students can interact with faculty and peers through discussion boards, and the school provides proctored tests regardless of where they live.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$533/credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

33 credits

The 33-credit program includes five credits of non-thesis research and a variety of electives in the student’s area of concentration. Community nutrition, nutrition science, sports nutrition, and clinical nutrition are all options for specialization. Students train for a variety of careers and may work in the public or private sectors; some graduates even start their own businesses.

Auburn University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Admission Requirements

GPA:  3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 78%
Location: Auburn, AL

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4. Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University in New York offers an online master’s degree in nutrition. The program provides advanced nutrition training to students, preparing them for careers in disease prevention and health optimization.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

 $629 per credit (in-state); $1,121 per credit (out-of-state)

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4-6 semesters

Points
Credits

36 credits

Students can either follow a general sequence or specialize in either advanced nutrition therapy and critical care or integrative nutrition therapy.

Students take core nutrition courses such as macronutrients and functional nutrition, advanced communication and counseling, and nutrition research methods. This program, however, does not provide licensed dietician certification.

The Stony Brook University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Admission Requirements

GPA:  3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: Not required

Program: Master of Science in Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 74%
Instruction Style: Synchronous and Asynchronous
Location: Stony Brook, NY

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5. American University

AU, which is based in Washington

, D.C., offers an online master’s degree in nutrition education. The program focuses not only on nutrition, but also on education that promotes positive change.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$1,708 per credit (summer courses); $1,759 per credit (fall and spring

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

20 months

Points
Credits

30 credits

Participants will learn education strategies that will benefit individuals, their communities, and the population as a whole.

Lifecycle nutrition, health communication, sports nutrition, and nutrition program design are among the courses available. Students can participate in a mentorship program, watch student webinars on topics such as health literacy and food access, and attend networking events.

The Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools has regionally accredited American University.

Admission Requirements

GPA:  3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: Not required

Program: Master of Science in Nutrition Education
School Status: Private
Graduation Rate: 80%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Washington, DC

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6. Arizona State University

Scottsdale-based ASU offers an online master of science in nutritional science and an online master of science in medical nutrition.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$842 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

30 credits

The medical nutrition option focuses on the intersection between nutrition and healthcare. This program includes information on the use of big data, research, and new nutrition discoveries and techniques.

Alternatively, the nutritional science program provides registered dietitians with the opportunity to acquire an advanced dietetics degree with a focus on the scientific foundation of nutrition. Electives include topics like evidence-based nutrition, sports nutrition, and pediatric nutrition.

ASU is a regionally accredited institution through the Higher Learning Commission.

Admission Requirements

GPA:  3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: Not required

Program: Master of Science in Nutritional Science; Master of Science in Medical Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 14%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location
: Scottsdale, AZ

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7. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University

Located in Lubbock, TTU offers an online master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics. Students can choose one of three concentrations: nutrition and healthy weight, nutrition and sports, or nutrition in the life cycle.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$559 per credit (in-state); $968 per credit (out-of-state)

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

33 credits

It doesn’t matter what concentration students choose, they have to complete classes such as biostatistics in nutrition, vitamins and minerals, and nutrition research. Elective course options cover topics such as maternal and child nutrition, food security, diabetes and nutrition management. For this program, there is no thesis requirement.

The TTU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: GRE requirement waived through 2021

Program: Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 59%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Lubbock, TX

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8. East Carolina University

ECU in Greenville, North Carolina, offers an online nutrition master’s degree. The program teaches advanced information students need to succeed in the competitive field of nutrition and diet.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$249 per credit (in-state); $894 per credit (out-of-state)

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

33 credits

Additionally to the graduate program, the university offers one of the largest and most comprehensive dietetic internship programs accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

There are options of both the thesis and non-thesis type in the program. ECU’s graduates may pursue careers as dietitians, nutritionists, and dietetic technicians. 

ECU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Admission Requirements

GPA: No minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 65%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Greenville, NC

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9. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

UNL offers an online master’s degree in dietetics. To be eligible for this program, applicants must be registered dietitians (RDs) or be qualified to sit for the national RD credentialing exam.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$590 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

36 credits

The program requires nine credits for a core, 21-24 for electives, and a dietetics independent study project before completion. Core requirements include statistics and research methods, while elective topics include food culture, international nutrition and world hunger, and public health nutrition.

This dietetics program is available through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the University of Nebraska.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Dietetics
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 69%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Lincoln, NE

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10. Samford University

In Birmingham, Alabama, Samford University offers an online master’s in nutrition. Students gain research and analytical skills. This program also stresses the importance of oral and written communication skills, thus preparing students for leadership and managerial roles.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$888 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

3 semesters

Points
Credits

34 credits

The program’s core courses examine advanced nutrition and the metabolic process, and students may choose from two different concentrations: clinical nutrition or general nutrition. There is no thesis requirement, but a capstone project is required. This degree can be combined with a registered dietician certification, ensuring students have the skills to succeed in their chosen field.

Samford is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE, MCAT, or DAT requirement waived for the 2021 application cycle

Program: Master of Science in Nutrition
School Status: Private
Graduation Rate: 76%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Birmingham, AL

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11. Colorado State University

Based in Fort Collins, Colorado State University offers an online master’s degree in food science and nutrition. Students are taught how to design and implement effective, scientifically-based food and nutrition programs. Research skills are developed through coursework, and up-to-date knowledge on food and nutrition is provided.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$580 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

37 credits

This curriculum benefits registered dietitians who have completed a standard dietetics program or who wish to earn a master’s degree or to acquire new knowledge and understanding. The program emphasizes oral and written communication skills, as well as independent research abilities.

CSU is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: Not required

Program: Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 69%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Fort Collins, CO

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12. Kansas State University

Located in Manhattan, K-State offers a master of science in dietetics online. The program benefits registered dietitians looking to advance their careers or enhance their knowledge and practice.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$516 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

36 credits

Participants in the program learn how to apply new research and theories in public policy and healthcare delivery systems. Research in health sciences, statistical methods for the sciences, environmental scanning, and analysis of current issues in dietetics are among the core courses. Students also take 21 credits of electives and can choose between a thesis and a non thesis option.

K-State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: Not required

Program: Master of Science in Dietetics
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 64%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Manhattan, KS

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13. West Chester University

WCU offers an online master’s degree in community nutrition. This program promotes nutritional health and disease prevention.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$526 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

33 credits

The students focus on vulnerable populations and underserved communities. Research-based classes and electives teach learners independent thinking and research skills that are applicable in a variety of careers.

If you really want to go the extra mile, there are dietetic internship programs available. These requirements include nine additional credits plus 1,200 clinic hours split between hospital inpatients and outpatient communities.

WCU is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 2.8 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GMAT or GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Community Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 75%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: West Chester, PA

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14. Bowling Green State University

BGSU, located in Ohio, offers an online master’s degree in food and nutrition. The program includes coursework that is comprehensive, research-based, and practice-based.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$4,779 per semester (in-state); $4,889 per semester (out-of-state)

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

39-40 credits

Learners can specialize in areas such as public health, microbiology, psychology, and exercise physiology.

Core courses cover topics such as human nutrition macronutrients, advanced clinical nutrition, and family and community nutrition. Students must also complete a master’s project, comprehensive exam readings, or thesis research in food and nutrition. Faculty teach online courses in seven-week sessions.

BGSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum recommended
Standardized Tests: GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Food and Nutrition
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 56%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Bowling Green, OH

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15. Central Michigan University

CMU, which is located in Mount Pleasant, offers an online master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics. The program teaches participants advanced nutrition and clinical dietetics skills and knowledge.

Accreditations
Format

Online

Tuition
Tuition

$637 per credit

Student to Faculty Ratio
Duration

4 semesters

Points
Credits

31-37 credits

Students gain the knowledge required to interpret scientific literature and conduct independent research.

Learners select one of three program options based on their career goals: thesis, internship, or all-coursework. Participants, regardless of their degree path, take classes on micronutrients and macronutrients, nutritional epidemiology, and research methods and biostatistics.

CMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Admission Requirements

GPA: 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: Not required

Program: Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 62%
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Location: Mount Pleasant, MI

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Online Master’s in Nutrition Program Overview

Choosing the best master’s in nutrition program for you is a great way to expand your education. Nutrition programs also reap other benefits, such as helping you build on your undergraduate education, providing additional professional training in a growing field, and enhancing your career prospects. Because there are many online master’s in nutrition programs available today, it’s especially important to do some research before applying.

Nutrition-focused master’s programs provide a chance to develop the specialized skills needed for career advancement. This can come in the form of greater opportunity for specific areas of study or offering assistance through advanced courses.

A master’s in nutrition can be earned through either a full-time or part-time program, and is available at the masters, specialist’s and doctorate level. To find which program of study is most suitable for your specific interests in the field of nutrition, read on to learn how these advanced degrees differ from one another.

A master’s degree in nutrition can prepare you for careers in clinical practice, nutrition education and consulting, health program evaluation and management, research and experimental design, or careers in food development and safety. You can normally expect to cover several common subjects in most nutrition programs, including the nutritional health of different populations, nutrition and human metabolism, and research methods.

A master’s degree in nutrition allows students to deepen their knowledge in a specific area of nutrition or take a more general approach and explore a range of nutritional concerns. Students who earn an advanced degree may continue to work in the field for private industry or government, pursue research careers and/or enroll in further study toward a Ph.D. For those interested in the nutritional concerns of community and public health, participation in community service and humanitarian aid is yet one more way to gain experience while advancing their education.

Common Master’s in Nutrition Degree Courses

Related Master’s in Nutrition Degree Concentrations

Online Master’s in Nutrition Admission Requirements

Online Master’s in Nutrition Career Paths

After earning an online master’s in nutrition, graduates can enter the workforce as nutrition specialists, registered dietitians, and health or nutrition educators. Graduates of online master’s in nutrition programs might also choose to become dietetic interns who act as a link between doctors and patients or open their own health or nutrition-related businesses.

The field of nutrition requires a diverse set of qualifications. Candidates for nutrition careers may need to have both knowledge about and experience with scientific or marketing methods. A graduate degree can help you become qualified for positions in which scientific research is required.

In order to become a registered dietician, professionals must satisfy education, examination, and practice requirements. Additional specialty certifications are offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

FAQs about Best Online Master’s in Nutrition