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 well-nourished and live longer. Many people also seek a nutritional professional to manage health issues like:
- obesity
- diabetes
- celiac disease
- nut and dairy allergies
Nutrition experts such as dietitians, nutritionists, sports nutritionists, and health coaches, are in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dieticians and nutritionists have a median pay of $61,650/year. Depending on your location and level of education, a nutritionist or dietitian can anticipate making anything from $35,000 to $80,000 annually. Non-salaried positions often start at about $27.00 an hour. The job outlook for these roles is favorable, with a growth rate of 7% through 2031.
Featured Programs
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 an online masters nutrition degree.
Online nutrition masters 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
- the prestige of the institution in terms of earning potential
Also taken into consideration was the variety of online graduate nutrition 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; with an emphasis on nutrition that will continue to grow as more and more food sensitivities are discovered.
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20. Northeast College of Health Sciences – Seneca Falls, New York
Online MASTER of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,696/year
Northeast College of Health Sciences offers a masters in nutrition online program focused on applied clinical nutrition. The 36-credit hour curriculum covers a variety of subject areas including:
- genomics and personalized nutrition
- nutritional assessment
- sports nutrition
- behavioral nutrition
This particular online applied nutrition program focuses on how nutrition affects the human body on a cellular level. Students will study how nutrition can facilitate disease prevention. This top online nutrition masters program uses a science-based, whole-food approach to improve and maintain health. The program is easily accessible from anywhere with its flexible online format.
Students can complete their nutrition degree in just 16 to 24 months. Graduates are prepared to assess nutritional imbalances and design appropriate treatment plans that may include:
- nutritional supplement recommendations
- detoxification
- exercise
19. Arizona State University – Tempe, Arizona
Online Master of Science in Nutritional Science-Dietetics
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,014/year in-state and $24,498/year out-of-state
The Online Master of Science in Nutritional Science-Dietetics is one of the most customizable online masters nutrition programs in our ranking. The program is designed for registered dieticians or those who have completed an accredited didactic program in dietetics. The curriculum is comprised of 10 courses and each course is 7.5 weeks. Students can tailor the program to meet their professionals through elective courses in areas like:
- pediatric nutrition
- obesity prevention
- sports nutrition
Graduates have gone on to successful careers working in roles like:
- Clinical Manager
- Dietician
- Food Service Director
18. Saint Elizabeth University – Morristown, New Jersey
Master of Science in Nutrition
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,018/year
Saint Elizabeth in New Jersey offers one of the top online masters programs in nutrition. Their online master’s in nutrition is flexible and utilizes a competency-based curriculum. It allows students with varying degrees of experience to register for the program best suited to their educational needs.
Students also have the opportunity to choose a concentration in either Entrepreneurial Nutrition Practice or Community Nutrition and Wellness. 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 master’s 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, portfolio, or research project. Graduates of this top nutrition master’s program work in jobs such as:
- clinical and corporate research
- fitness facilities
- community organizations
- hospitals
- nutrition education
- public health agencies
17. Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics
Master’s in Nutrition and DieteticsAverage Graduate Tuition Rate: $16,880/year
Central Michigan University offers a cost-effective, online Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics program. This program requires one of three options:
- coursework
- a thesis
- 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 their nutrition degree in two years, taking just one or two courses at a time is possible. Most graduates can expect employment in a non-clinical setting.
Graduates of this online master’s in nutrition and dietetics are suited for jobs such as food service management or administration in a non-clinical setting.
16. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, Illinois
Food Science Master of Science Online
Food Science Master of Science OnlineAverage Graduate Student Tuition: $14,891/year in-state and $29,176/year out-of-state
The College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a non-thesis online master’s degree in food science. The program is designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals. Courses are offered through the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning and include:
- Advanced Food Microbiology
- Food Product Design Theory
- Introduction to Personalized Nutrition
Graduates are prepared for a variety of exciting career options including:
- Food Safety Specialist
- Product Innovation Scientist
- Quality Assurance Specialist or Quality Enabler
15. Tufts University – Boston, Massachusetts
Online Master of Nutrition Science and Policy
Online Master of Nutrition Science and PolicyAverage Graduate Student Tuition: $54,196/year
Tufts 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 is the only US-based hybrid program. Students are engaged in interactive online learning throughout the semester and come to campus for one week of face-to-face time.
Courses are taught by industry experts including registered dieticians and nutrition scientists. Tufts offered a variety of unique electives that include:
- Obesity and Energy Regulation
- Nutrition and Aging
- Nutrition, Brain, and Behavior
All students complete a master’s thesis to finish their degree. Students can complete this 30-credit hour program in just one to two years.
14. Bastyr University – Kenmore, Washington
Online Master’s in Integrative Nutrition
Online Master’s in Integrative NutritionAverage Graduate Student Tuition: $31,773/year
Bastyr University offers a 100%, asynchronous online masters in integrative nutrition. The program is delivered in an accelerated format that is perfect for working professionals. Students complete one course at a time, completing their degree in just 18 to 24 months.
This university has a holistic focus on nutrition which is reflected in its course offerings. The curriculum includes:
- Nutrition Analysis, Assessment, and Meal Planning
- Integrative Nutrition in Wellness Care
- Nutritional Biochemistry
All students complete an applied capstone project, showcasing their knowledge and skills acquired from their time in the program.
13. Logan University – Chesterfield, Missouri
Online Master’s in Nutrition and Human Performance
Online Master’s in Nutrition and Human PerformanceAverage Graduate Student Tuition: $9,450/year
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. Students can take courses year-round, allowing them to complete 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
- nutrition wellness
- health education and promotion
- integrative nutrition and practice track
12. The University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia
Master of Science in Community Nutrition Online
Master of Science in Community Nutrition OnlineAverage Graduate Student Tuition: $8,878/year in-state and $25,186/year out-of-state
The University of Georgia is located in Athens, Georgia. The College of Family and Consumer Sciences offers an online non-thesis program in Community Nutrition for those who want to go into fields like:
- school nutrition
- community outreach
- the food industry
All courses are taught 100% online, meeting the needs of working professionals. Experienced instructors give students valuable insights into the field, sharing their industry knowledge. This best online nutrition program can be completed by full-time students in as little as one year.
11. Bowling Green State University – Bowling Green, Ohio
Master of Food and Nutrition Program
Master of Food and Nutrition ProgramAverage Graduate Student Tuition: $8,418/year in-state and $14,410/year out-of-state
Bowling Green State University in NW Ohio offers a highly customizable program for students with a bachelor’s degree in an area like food or nutrition. Students will learn not only individual nutrition but also nutrition counseling for communities. Required courses include:
- Community and Public Health Nutrition
- Micronutrients Through the Life Span
- Macronutrients for Human Nutrition
Graduates interested in becoming a Registered Dietician Nutritionist (RDN) can use a verification statement toward the RDN internship.
10. Andrews University – Berrien Springs, Michigan
MS in Nutrition and Wellness
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $26,580/year
Andrews University is a Seventh-Day Adventist institution in Michigan. Andrews offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition and Wellness through The Department of Public Health, Nutrition & Wellness. The program is a great choice for students planning to become a Registered Dietician or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. It’s also a great choice for professionals with their RN or RDN who want to complete their master’s degree. The program has a vegetarian emphasis. Courses include:
- Vegetarian Nutrition and Disease Prevention
- Current Issues in Nutrition and Wellness
- Health Research Methods
Andrews offers one of the most affordable masters in nutrition online programs in the country. Online students benefit from a 50% tuition discount, resulting in significant savings. Andrews also offers an accredited Master of Public Health (MPH) in nutrition and wellness. Their MPH in nutrition was the first in the country to be offered online.
9. The University of Kansas – Kansas City, Kansas
Online Master’s in Dietetics and Nutrition
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,989/year in-state and $23,951/year out-of-state
The University of Kansas offers a Master of Science in Dietetics through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance. Because this program is offered by GPIDEA, courses are delivered online from any of the eight participating universities. The program is available only to Registered Dieticians or registry-eligible students who have met all the requirements set by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. This distance learning program looks to promote career opportunities to those already working in the field.
Students can choose to complete either a thesis or non-thesis program path depending on their professional goals. 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.
8. Auburn University – Auburn, Alabama
Master of Science in Nutrition: Online Non-Thesis Option
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,386/year in-state and $31,158/year out-of-state
Auburn University has a very accessible online master’s degree program that matches the rigor of its on-campus program. When you combine affordability with an excellent graduation rate of 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 four emphasis areas including:
- Community Nutrition
- Nutrition Science
- Sports Nutrition
- Clinical Nutrition
7. American University – Washington, DC
Online Master of Science in Nutrition Education
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $38,139/year
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 master’s 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 that is committed to helping students reach their career goals. 95% of graduates are working in the field within 6 months of completing the degree.
As a top school with a supportive alumni network and expert faculty, American University is an excellent pick for an online master’s in nutrition education.
6.Virginia Tech – Blacksburg, Virginia
Online Master of Agriculture and Life Sciences-Applied Nutrition and Physical Activity
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $14,521/year in-state and $29,267/year out-of-state
The online Master of Agriculture and Life Sciences with a concentration in Applied Nutrition and Physical Activity from Virginia Tech provides practical, evidence-based knowledge needed for today’s growing healthcare needs. The curriculum emphasizes critical inquiry and problem-solving. Students will also learn successful business practices in the nutrition and physical activity industry.
This top online master in nutrition and exercise science program prepares graduates for careers such as:
- Athletics and Fitness
- Allied Health Professionals
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Corporate Wellness/ Corporate Fitness
5. Ball State University – Muncie, Indiana
Online Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,636/year in-state and $26,334/year out-of-state
Ball State University offers one of the top nutrition masters degree online programs for current RD/RDNs. The online program is available to both full and part-time students, making this a great choice for working professionals. Courses are taught by top-notch faculty and include:
- Nutrition Assessment
- Energy, Balance, Obesity, and Weight Control
- Nutrition for Exercise and Sport
Students can choose whether they’d like to complete a thesis or non-thesis program option. There’s no GRE required for admission and no on-campus residency requirements.
4. Colorado State University – Fort Collins, Colorado
Online Master of Science in Dietetics
Online Master of Science in DieteticsAverage Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,834/year in-state and $26,564/year out-of-state
Colorado State offers an online Master of Science in Dietetics. The program is available to current Registered Dieticians or those with DPD verification. Students will learn how to design and lead effective programs that incorporate principles of:
- biomedical sciences
- human behavior
- management
By earning this degree, practitioners can advance their level of practice or retool for exciting new career opportunities. The program also prepares students for doctoral study in specialized areas of dietetic practice. 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.
3. Purdue University Global – West Lafayette, Indiana
Online Master of Science Degree in Health Education and Promotion
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,472/year in-state and $10,524/year out-of-state
Purdue University Global offers an online master’s in health education and promotion. With today’s focus on illness prevention and the promotion of healthier lifestyles, a master’s in health education and promotion will give students the skills they need to pursue a job in a field that will help the public.
With 100% coursework online, Purdue offers a flexible master’s taught by experienced professionals in health-related fields. Students can gain real-world experience by completing onsite fieldwork. Course offerings include:
- Health Education Program Assessment
- Health Behavior
- Health Education Program Implementation
Courses are offered in 10-week terms and most students can complete their degree in about 18 months. Graduates are working in leadership and management promotions in government and non-profits as well as in private organizations.
2. North Carolina State University – Raleigh, North Carolina
Online Master of Nutrition
Online Master of NutritionAverage Graduate Student Tuition: $9,095/year in-state and $28,301/year out-of-state
North Carolina State University offers some attributes that put it in the top 10 on this list. As a highly affordable option, NCU also offers a very high graduation rate of almost 75%. The Master 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:
- Human Nutrition
- Feed Science
The program emphasizes practical, industry-specific knowledge that helps students achieve their goal of career advancement. Professional development opportunities allow students to connect with potential employers or grow their career with their current employment situation.
1. Texas Woman’s University – Denton, Texas
Master of Science in Nutrition Online
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,112/year in-state and $12,456/year out-of-state
Our top choice for an online nutrition master’s degree is offered by 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 yearlong dietetic internship focusing on medical nutrition therapy for students in the master’s in nutrition and master’s in exercise and sports nutrition programs.
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