Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

Learn about the best master's in dietetics programs for 2024, including salary and career expectations.
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Updated on May 1, 2024
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Margaret Weinhold is an associate editor for BestColleges, where she focuses on core content. She is passionate about increasing visibility and accessibility around higher education. Margaret holds a BA in English from the University of Virginia....
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Katherine Tom MS, RD, LD, CDCES
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Katherine Tom is a private practice registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist. She has over 15 years of experience in outpatient and telenutrition counseling, clinical research, diabetes self-management education, and ...
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Best Online Master's Degree Programs in Dietetics

Earning a master's in dietetics puts you at the forefront of health and nutrition, enabling you to work with clients, conduct research, develop training plans, and influence policy.

These programs typically take 1-2 years to complete, depending on the required coursework and whether you plan to study full time or part time.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for nutritionists and dietitians to grow by 7% between 2022 and 2023, faster than the average for all occupations.

Related Online Master's Programs You May Be Interested In

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Master's in Dietetics Programs of 2024

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center

  • Oklahoma City, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $647
Out-of-State | $647

Credits to Graduate: 34 credits

Choose from an online or on-campus format to earn your master’s in nutritional sciences at the University of Oklahoma. The program covers advanced nutritional and food science knowledge. You can choose a thesis or non-thesis option. 

If you want to become a registered dietitian, UO Health Sciences Center also offers a master’s in dietetics program. This program incorporates 1,200 internship hours to gain hands-on experience. Neither program requires GRE scores, and Oklahoma residents receive a significant tuition discount.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,220
Out-of-state
$21,985
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,119
Out-of-state
$19,778
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,235
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

University of Nebraska Medical Center

  • Omaha, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Total Cost for Tuition:
In-State | $16,260
Out-of-State | $26,600

Credits to Graduate: 45 credits

The Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center offers a master’s in professional studies in dietetics. During the 16-month program, you complete didactic and supervised experiential requirements. The program prepares graduates for the registered dietitian nutritionist credential. 

Explore topics such as community nutrition and medical nutrition therapy during the program. You complete some coursework through distance education while meeting clinical requirements in the Lincoln area. Apply with a minimum 3.0 GPA, three recommendation letters, and a resume.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,340
Out-of-state
$30,510
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,207
Out-of-state
$26,379
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,750
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $456
Out-of-State | $1,002

Credits to Graduate: 37 credits

Miami’s Florida International University offers a master’s in dietetics and nutrition with a thesis and non-thesis option. You take core courses in nutrition, public health, and research. On the master’s thesis track, you analyze data to address a challenge in dietetics. The non-thesis option covers applied program planning or evaluation. 

You need an accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the final 60 credits. You must also provide official transcripts.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,168
Out-of-state
$18,566
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$911
Out-of-state
$2,003
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
54,906
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

Loma Linda University

  • Loma Linda, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Year:
In-State | $43,368
Out-of-State | $43,368

Credits to Graduate: 48 credits

Loma Linda University, a Christian institution specializing in healthcare science, offers a master’s in nutrition and dietetics. With tracks for registered dietitians, undergraduates, and post-baccalaureate applicants, you can find an option that fits your circumstances.

For example, registered dietitians can earn their master’s in one year, while the accelerated BS/MS program takes three years.

You need a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. The program also conducts interviews during the admission process. The program also requires GRE scores. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,736
Out-of-state
$32,736
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,382
Out-of-state
$27,382
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,390
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

University of Missouri-Columbia

  • Columbia, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Semester:
In-State | $4,500
Out-of-State | $11,250

Credits to Graduate: 30 credits

The University of Missouri-Columbia offers an accelerated path to a master’s degree in its dietetics program. The master’s in dietetics admits undergrads who finish their bachelor’s and master’s in the program. You can also apply after finishing a bachelor’s degree. If you meet the prerequisites, you can complete the master’s in two years.

The program includes graduate-level courses in endocrinology, health informatics ethics, and medical nutrition therapy. You also complete a 10-credit dietetics supervised practice experience. Missouri residents receive a significant tuition discount.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,074
Out-of-state
$30,441
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,447
Out-of-state
$28,605
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
31,344
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

South Dakota State University

  • Brookings, SD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $340
Out-of-State | $654

Credits to Graduate: 39 credits

In the accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s program at South Dakota State University, you can earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in seven semesters. The program admits undergrads with at least 58 credits, and you graduate with a master’s in nutrition and dietetics. You can also apply to the program after earning a bachelor’s degree.

The coursework emphasizes medical nutrition therapy, nutrigenomics, and community health education. You also complete an internship to gain hands-on experience in the summer. You need a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a minimum 2.5 GPA in science courses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,773
Out-of-state
$11,283
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,164
Out-of-state
$15,697
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
11,548
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

  • Blacksburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $846
Out-of-State | $1,706

Credits to Graduate: 51 credits

Virginia Tech offers a master’s in nutrition and dietetics that blends competency-based coursework with supervised experiential learning opportunities. For example, the program places graduate students at Carilion Clinic to gain clinical skills. 

You can choose from a 17-month track if you already possess a bachelor’s degree or a 22-month accelerated BS/MS pathway if you're a current Virginia Tech student. Both tracks emphasize nutrition counseling, hands-on experience, and clinical practice. The program does not require GRE scores for admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,751
Out-of-state
$30,829
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,521
Out-of-state
$29,267
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
38,365
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $320
Out-of-State | $728

Credits to Graduate: 36 credits

You can complete your registered dietitian nutritionist requirements at Sam Houston State University in as little as 17 months. The public institution offers a master’s in dietetics with a concentration in community research and wellness. 

The program includes 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience and culminates in a master’s exam. Apply to the program with official transcripts, a graduate application, and official GRE scores. The program waives the GRE requirement if you have a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,648
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,108
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
21,612
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

Florida State University

  • Tallahassee, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics 

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $479
Out-of-State | $1,111

Credits to Graduate: 32 credits

At Florida State University, you can earn a master’s in nutrition and food science. The program offers tracks in food science and nutrition science, with the option to complete a dietetic internship while in the program. The internship prepares graduates for the registered dietitian nutritionist credential.

You need a minimum 3.0 GPA and an accredited bachelor’s degree. Currently, the program does not require GRE scores. However, you can choose to submit GRE scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,616
Out-of-state
$18,746
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,662
Out-of-state
$26,657
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Students Enrolled
44,134
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Master’s in Dietetics Programs

San Jose State University

  • San Jose, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics 

Cost per Semester:
In-State | $3,804
Out-of-State | $3,804 plus $420 per credit

Credits to Graduate: 30 credits

Prepare for leadership roles with a master of nutritional science from San Jose State University. With an MS in nutritional science, you can work in nutritional education, geriatric nutrition, and other roles. You can also meet the academic requirements to become a registered dietitian. 

You can apply to the internal dietetic internship to gain hands-on experience. You submit an online application, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and a resume. You also need to submit GRE scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
35,823
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

What Can You Expect From a Master's in Dietetics Program?

Master's in dietetics programs include coursework in advanced topics, including metabolic systems, food composition and behavior, and research methods.

Most also include a capstone project, although students interested in research may decide to follow a thesis track and submit long-form original research.

These programs exist both online and in-person, creating flexibility for working professionals.

Program Snapshot
Average Graduate Degree Tuition Cost (2021-2022) $20,513
Length 2 years
Credits 30
Program Tracks Master of science (MS), master of arts (MA), master of public health
Example Concentrations
  • Food science
  • Culinary entrepreneurship
  • Professional practice
  • Medical nutrition
  • Pediatric nutrition
Example Courses
  • Biostatistics
  • Vitamin functions
  • Metabolism
  • Food systems

3 Benefits of a Dietetics Degree

  • Personal Fulfillment: Being a dietitian means helping people improve their lives through nutrition and education, making this a potentially rewarding career.
  • Above-Average Pay: Dietitians earned an annual median salary of $69,680 in 2023, over $20,000 more than the median salary for all occupations. The top 10% of dietitians earned more than $98,830 annually.
  • Flexibility: Earning this degree gives you flexibility to work for a company or start your practice. You can make the decision that best fits your lifestyle and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About a Master's in Dietetics Program

Is a master's in dietetics worth it?

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Yes, a master's in dietetics is worth it if you want to work closely with patients and have a passion for food science. A master's degree is the entry-level education required to sit for the registered dietitian's exam — the only pathway to working with patients in a clinical setting.

A master's in dietetics provides advanced training that qualifies you for roles in private and public settings. You can also decide to work for yourself or an organization.

What can you do with a master's in dietetics degree?

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If you're looking for flexibility, master's in dietetics degrees provide this and more. Some graduates may work for government agencies, while others work for food companies to improve nutrition outcomes.

How much money can you make as a dietitian?

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Dietitians and nutritionists earned a median salary of nearly $70,000 in 2023. Those working in outpatient treatment centers earned over $77,000, while those in hospitals earned around $73,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.


Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed March 28, 2024.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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