In a world where food, food allergies and nutrition are constantly debated, many people are turning to nutritionists to help them find the right foods to help them feel better. Be will nourish and live longer. So many food issues such as obesity, diabetes, celiac disease, nut and dairy allergies, as well as a great deal of concern over GMOs; make decisions over food harder than ever. Nutrition experts such as dietitians, nutritionists, sports nutritionists, and health coaches, are in demand and that demand is ever growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics by 2024 employment for dietitians and nutritionist will increase by 16%.
Depending on your location and level of education, a nutritionist or dietitian can anticipate making anything from $35,000 to $80,000 annually, with $53,000 being the national average. Non-salaried positions often start at about $27.00 an hour.As recently as five years ago, degree programs for nutritionists were difficult to find in many states. That is changing rapidly. Below you will find our top picks for Masters degree programs in nutrition in the country.
Nutrition graduate programs are evaluated on several criteria; cost effectiveness, the professor to student ratio for better access and learning, schedule flexibility with online learning, program length, and to a certain extent, the prestige of the institution as far as it will enable greater earning potential. Also taken into consideration was the variety of programs offered specifically for the field of Nutrition Studies. Some schools on the list have a vast array of career paths to pursue, while others had strong programs but career options were limited. Still, others fit more of a niche career path in natural foods; an emphasis on nutrition that will continue to grow as more and more food sensitivities are discovered.
20. New York Chiropractic College
New York Chiropractic College offers a Masters program in Nutrition. It is called the Masters of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition and is an online course that costs about $713/credit. It has a 36 credit requirement and usually takes two full years to complete. This particular program focuses on how nutrition affects the human body on a cellular level. Students will study the ways in which nutrition can facilitate disease prevention. This top online nutrition masters program focuses on a holistic approach to healthcare, and has the convenience of being accessible from anywhere and prepares students for testing on a national level.
You can learn more about the program here.
19. University of Washington
The University of Washington, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology offers an MPH in Public Health Nutrition.
A Registered Dietician must complete the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics–accredited Graduate Coordinated Program in Dietetics.This degree program utilizes University of Washington Medical Center and the Warren G. Magnuson Health Sciences Center for research and teaching. Opportunities to study in the School of Public Health, the Clinical Research Center are provided to students who wish to take part in public health programs such as community education projects, nutritional research, and counseling. Program participants are trained in the nutritional sciences and dietetic practice through a variety of experiences, including clinical, classroom and community programs.
The Global Ranking of Academic Subject ranked University of Washington School of Public Health #5 in the world in 2019.
You can learn more about the program here.
18. The College of Saint Elizabeth
The College of Saint Elizabeth in New Jersey offers a Masters in Nutrition program that is flexible, and has slightly fewer requirements than other programs. It allows students with varying degrees of experience to register for the program best suited to their educational needs. Because the online program is open to Registered Dieticians/Nutritionists, it allows professionals already in their field an opportunity to continue their education in a way that fits the schedule of a busy, working adult.
This online masters in nutritional science program has a requirement of 30 credits, with several being core courses. Also required is a capstone project which can be completed as a written thesis, a portfolio or even a research project. Graduates of this top nutrition masters program work in jobs such as:
- clinical and corporate research
- fitness facilities
- community organizations
- hospitals
- nutrition education
- public health agencies
You can learn more about the program here.
17. Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University offers a cost effective, online Masters of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics program. This program requires one of three options: coursework, a thesis or an internship. While it is not required that students be registered dietitians; that is the one requirement for the internship program. While most students can complete the program in a two-year period, it is possible to take just one or two courses at a time. Most graduates can expect employment in a non-clinical setting.
Graduates of this online masters in nutrition and dietetics are suited for jobs such as food service management or administration in a non-clinical setting.
You can learn more about the program here.
16. The University of Illinois
The Division of Nutritional Sciences at Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a prestigious facility established in 1968. It’s best graduate programs allow a student to develop an interdisciplinary approach to nutrition, based on their particular interests. With twelve departments and six colleges working in conjunction, the program trains 21st Century nutritionists to understand and evaluate complex nutritional needs. Research emphasis includes molecular and biochemical nutrition, toxicology, nutrition education, community nutrition, consumer acceptance, and food safety.
You can learn more about these top nutrition masters program here.
15. Tufts University
Tuft’s University in Boston offers a truly unique educational experience when pursuing a graduate degree in nutrition. Based in the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, this program offers seven different graduate degrees. Food and the Environment, Nutrition Communication, Humanitarian Assistance specialties are unique in that research occurs not only in the United States, but all across the globe. There is also another masters program that allows professionals to combine work and school with an online program in conjunction with short residencies.
You can learn more about the program here.
14. Bastyr University
Bastyr University, located in California and Washington states in accredited by the National Dietetic Association. This university has a holistic focus of nutrition and this reflect in the coursework. Graduate programs offer multidisciplinary curriculum in science-based natural medicine. Concentrations or coursework are available in nutrition for wellness, exercise science, nutrition, and dietetics. Tuition for a graduate degree requiring 44 credits.
You can learn more about this top masters in nutrition and exercise science program here.
13. Logan University
Logan University in Chesterfield, Missouri offers a very affordable, online Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance. This coursework is completed in three, 15 week sessions year round, allowing for completion of the program in 2.5 years. The main focus of the program is to teach students how to combine nutrition with the performance of the human body.
Logan offers nutrition masters degree concentrations including:
- sports & fitness nutrition
- nutritional wellness
- health education and promotion
- registered dietitian
You can learn more about this award winning (including most affordable and top masters in nutrition) program here.
12. The University of Georgia
The University of Georgia is located in Athens. Through the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, students are able to obtain any level of degree in Nutrition, from Bachelors, Master, and Doctoral. Graduate students can define a degree program that enables them to study abroad in places like London, China and Australia, learn about grant writing, research, academia, and teaching.
The College of Family and Consumer Sciences offers an online MS non-thesis in Community Nutrition for those who want to go into school nutrition, community outreach or the food industry. This best online nutrition program can be completed in as little as one year.
You can learn more about this top masters in nutrition program here.
11. Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green State University in NW Ohio offers both Masters and Certificate programs. While being one of the most cost-effective programs in the country. This program boasts the main campus as well as online accessibility. Students will learn not only individual nutrition but also nutrition counseling for communities. Required courses include:
- Family and Community Nutrition
- Micronutrients Through the Life Span
- Macronutrients for Human Nutrition
BGSU also offers a certificate program which only requires four courses in Advanced Nutrition studies. No GRE is required for this masters in nutrition if certain criteria has been met.
You can learn more about this masters in food and nutrition program here.
10. Andrews University
Andrews University is a Seventh Day Adventist institution in Michigan. It can offer degree programs through The Department of Public Health, Nutrition & Wellness. The focus of these degree programs is Nutrition and the effect it has on the human body regarding life span, health, wellness and quality of life. Courses include studies in the life cycle, organic chemistry, biology, and metabolic processes. A core curriculum including elective courses is also required. Their accredited masters of public health (MPH) in nutrition and wellness is the first in the country to be offered online.
You can learn more about this top online masters in nutrition and wellness program here.
9. The University of Kansas
The University of Kansas offers a Master of Science in Dietetics. This program boasts a high graduation rate of 60% as well as being one of the lower cost options in getting a Masters degree. Primarily for Registered Dieticians, this distance learning program looks to promote career opportunities to those already working in the field. Because this program is offered by Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance, a variety of universities offer classes. The thesis option has a requirement of six credit hours committed to writing a formal thesis on a research project. The non-thesis degree stipulates two additional elective classes and finally, oral and written examinations. The length of time needed to complete this program is approximately three years.
You can learn more about this top masters in dietetics program here.
8. Auburn University
Auburn University has a very accessible Masters degree program. When you combine affordability with an excellent graduation rate at over 70% and the fact that it is an online program with requirements that are less vigorous (a 2.75 undergrad GPA), this degree program is a great option for those who are passionate about nutrition and health and want to further their career. The Master of Nutrition program is a non-thesis program with a requirement of 33 credit hours, based on a semester platform.
This MS in Nutrition from AU offers 4 degree emphasis including:
- Community Nutrition
- Nutrition Science
- Sports Nutrition
- Clinical Nutrition
You can learn more about this distance education program in nutrition from Auburn here.
7. American University
American University offers an online MS in Nutrition Education. While the desire to live a healthy lifestyle is becoming very relevant in the U.S., there is also a lot of misinformation about nutrition. This top masters in nutrition and dietetics degree program will give graduates the education needed to make a difference in the health of their community.
American University has an experienced and qualified faculty which is committed to helping students reach their career goals. 95% of graduates are working in the field within 6 months of completing the degree.
Princeton Review ranks American University as the 6th best school in the country. With a top school, supportive alumni network and expert faculty, American University is an excellent pick for an online masters in nutrition education. Find out more about this best program here.
6.Virginia Tech
The online Masters of Agriculture and Life Sciences with a concentration in Applied Nutrition and Physical Activity from Virgina Tech provides practical, evidence-based knowledge needed for today’s growing healthcare needs. This top online masters in nutrition and exercise science program prepares graduates in careers such as:
- Athletics and Fitness
- Allied Health Professionals
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Corporate Wellness/ Corporate Fitness
You can learn more about this fully online and accredited masters in nutrition program here.
5. Canisius College
Canisius College’s School of Education & Human Services in Buffalo, New York offers an online Masters program in Applied Nutrition. This top-ranked affordable degree program has specializations in either Obesity and Eating Disorders or Fitness and Sports Nutrition. This accelerated masters is geared toward working professionals and is able to be completed in as little as one year. The program is planned in 8-week terms and totals 33 credit hours. All courses are completed through an online portal where students and professors can discuss, turn in required coursework and comprehensive exams. Each course is tailored by the professor, so they are limited to only 12 students, allowing each student the opportunity to work closely with the professor and fellow students.
You can learn about this masters in applied nutrition here.
4. Colorado State
Colorado State offers three programs that will deliver a Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition. The three program options are as follows:
- Nutritional Science
- Community Nutrition
- Food Science
This dietetics masters in part of the Great Plains Interactive Education Alliance (IDEA), offering fully online, quality degree in leading professions. With the increased demands for dietitians based on an aging population as well as an obesity epidemic, this masters in nutrition is well worth it.
You can learn more about this MS in Food Science and Nutrition from CU here.
3. Purdue University
Purdue University Global offers an online masters in health education and wellness. With today’s focus of illness prevention and promotion of healthier lifestyles, a masters in health education and wellness will give students the skills they need to pursue a job in a field that will help the public.
Top jobs with this masters in wellness and health education include:
- fitness and wellness coordinator
- health educator
- health specialties teachers
With 100% coursework online, Purdue offers a flexible masters taught by experienced professionals in health-related fields. Purdue has a respected reputation, and was ranked in the top 10 best public universities by The Wall Street Journal/ Times Higher Education.
You can learn more about this best masters in health education and wellness program here.
2. North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University offers some attributes that put it in the top 10 on this list. As a highly affordable option, NCSUR also offers a very high graduation rate at almost 75%. The Masters of Nutrition requires a total of 36 credit hours but is a non-thesis program. Instead, six credit hours are needed in a direct practicum or internship. Emphasis options include the following:
- Master of Nutrition (non-thesis)
- Professional Science Master of Nutrition-Human Nutrition
- Professional Science Master of Nutrition-Feed Science
You can learn more about this masters of nutrition program here.
1. Texas Woman’s University
Our top of the list is Texas Woman’s University. While a controversial choice, as it is a gender specific school, research shows that most graduate degree applicants in the field of nutrition are women. Because most salaries in this field are in the $50,000 a year range, we felt that an affordable education that could be tailored to the student’s current career and lifestyle would be most beneficial. Tuition for a graduate degree at Texas Women’s University is extremely affordable and is the lowest tuition on our list. Their online option is geared toward professionals who wish to obtain a Master of Science in Nutrition.
This degree has a high requirement load, but it can be completed in as little as one year. However, it allows up to six years for completion. Students will gain knowledge in macro and micro food composition and how nutrition impacts health. There is an examination requirement, as well as a capstone seminar.
TWO offers a year long dietetic internship focusing on medical nutrition therapy for students in the masters in nutrition and masters in exercise and sports nutrition programs.
You can learn more about this best masters in nutrition program here.