Best Online Master’s in Nutrition Programs of 2023
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Finding A Program That's Right For You
Get equipped with the resources that will help you easily navigate your learning journey.
- Browse programs to find what you like best
- Discover schools that match your goals and aspirations
- Request more information
- Nutritionists are in the business of preventing disease and improving lives.
- A master's degree can make you a more qualified job candidate — and help you earn more money.
- It can also give you access to better jobs as advanced degrees increasingly become a requirement for licensure and credentialing.
Atkins. Paleo. "Clean" eating. Juice cleansing. Cheat days. Fasting days. Raw food days. No-fat-low-carb-sobbing-into-a-bowl-of-sad-snap-peas days.
If there's one thing Americans have an appetite for, it's fad diets and misery.
But nutritionists know better. They are fighting the good fight: battling food misinformation, preventing disease, and guiding people into healthy, balanced, and happy lives. If you're considering an online master's in nutrition degree, the world needs you. Here's how to do it:
- Explore this page to make sure this path is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online master's in nutrition programs and our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from the schools you're interested in.
Online Master's in Nutrition Programs
Is Getting a Master's in Nutrition Worth It?
If you want to boost your earning potential, yes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an advanced degree typically boosts your income by 20%.
In many cases, your professional options and career trajectory will be limited if you only have a bachelor's degree. But with an online master's in nutrition, you can go on to become a registered dietitian, nutritionist, or nutrition researcher –– and qualify for higher-paid leadership roles with more responsibility and impact.
Best Online Master's in Nutrition Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $505
Out of State | $505
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
If you want to earn a master's in nutrition that takes a practice-based approach, consider NC State University's program. This applied master's in nutrition degree allows you to personalize your degree with a human nutrition or a feed science emphasis. Plus, you'll gain hands-on experience through an internship and practicum.
To qualify for admission, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a science-related field like biology or organic chemistry. This program also requires at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $301
Out of State | $1,058
Credits to Graduate
38
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
The University of Utah designed its master of science in nutrition and integrative physiology with working students in mind. The U's flexible nutrition program allows you to move at your own pace. And it only takes two years to complete if you enroll full time.
This program requires an undergraduate degree in a topic like nutrition, dietetics, or health sciences, as well as a minimum 3.0 GPA. As part of the application, you must turn in a statement of purpose.
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $600
Out of State | $600
Credits to Graduate
36
Program Information
Program Accreditation | The Higher Learning Commission
The University of Kansas' online master's in dietetics and nutrition gives you control over what you want to study. The program allows you to take an individual study course on a niche topic that interests you, and half of the credits required are electives.
Earning KU's master's in nutrition online prepares you to offer dietician services to diverse populations. You'll learn about the current issues and trends in the field. But keep in mind: This program requires you to either be a registered dietitian or have a degree in dietetics and experience in an accredited internship.
Canisius College
Buffalo, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $860
Out of State | $860
Credits to Graduate
33
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
If you're interested in dietetic research and how to apply it to the practice, consider Canisius's applied nutrition degree. This online master's in nutrition allows you to choose between an obesity and eating disorders concentration or a fitness and sports nutrition concentration.
This program requires a bachelor's degree in any subject, but you need at least a 2.7 GPA. You also need to submit a 500-word statement of purpose about why you want to complete this degree at Canisius.
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $284
Out of State | $692
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Graduate students who want to complete their degrees quickly should take a look at TWU. This school's master of science in nutrition allows you to graduate in as few as 12 months. The online program doesn't require a thesis. You can personalize your degree through 13 credit hours of electives.
Contrary to its name, TWU has admitted students of any gender since 1972. The school doesn't require the GRE for this program. But you will need to take undergraduate prerequisites in topics like nutrition and chemistry.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $615
Out of State | $615
Credits to Graduate
44
Program Information
Program Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education
UMass Amherst's master of public health in nutrition takes an interdisciplinary approach to its curriculum. Through your studies, you'll learn about how a person's community impacts their personal health. This master's in nutrition is collaborative, so you'll get to work with classmates from all over the world.
To apply for this program, you'll need a bachelor's degree with at least a 2.75 GPA. You will also need to submit a personal statement and recommendation letters.
Northeastern University Lifelong Learning Network
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $817
Out of State | $817
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education
If you choose to study nutrition at Northeastern, you can complete your degree in about 12-18 months. Better yet, Northeastern's applied nutrition program requires just a part-time commitment. You can choose from five different concentrations such as nutrition education, integrative health, and obesity.
To qualify for admission, you must complete prerequisite coursework. You'll need to take foundational classes in subjects like chemistry and biology.
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $N/A
Out of State | $N/A
Credits to Graduate
30 credits
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
If you want to start working in the nutrition field with a graduate degree as soon as possible, consider attending UT Austin. The school's master's in nutrition program requires only 10 courses, and it takes 1-2 years to finish. Plus, you can choose between a health promotion and disease prevention or a biochemical and functional nutrition concentration.
To qualify for enrollment, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a nutrition-related field with a 3.0 GPA in your upper-division courses.
Russell Sage College
Troy, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $725
Out of State | $725
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Russell Sage College's applied nutrition master's program is a good option for the curious learner. This program emphasizes research methods and even dedicates three courses on the topic as part of the thesis requirement. The courses cover topics like weight management, pediatric nutrition, and sports nutrition.
To apply to this online applied nutrition program, you must submit your official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions you've attended. The application also requires two recommendation letters, a career goals essay, and an updated resume.
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $450
Out of State | $450
Credits to Graduate
33
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Auburn's master's in nutrition program gives you the opportunity to study what you want. You can choose between four concentrations. For example, if you want to work with athletes, you can choose the sports nutrition concentration. And if you want to take a more generalized approach, you can choose the nutrition science option.
You'll also need to complete certain undergraduate prerequisite courses to qualify for Auburn's nutrition program. Some of these courses include organic chemistry, general biology, and basic nutrition.
Why Should You Get a Master's in Nutrition Degree?
There are five major benefits to getting a master's degree in nutrition:
- You can make more money: According to Payscale, folks with a master of science in nutrition make around $10,000 more a year than the average nutritionist salary.
- You can access better job opportunities: Increasingly, healthcare jobs require advanced degrees for licensure and certification. A master's degree can make you more competitive for the jobs you really want.
- You can become a registered dietitian: As of 2024, a master's degree will be the minimum degree requirement to become a registered dietician.
- You can develop your skills: An online master's in nutrition program will teach you how to prevent and manage disease. You will learn how to offer highly-tailored treatment plans based on the concept of bio-individuality. That is, you'll be prepared to actually help unique individuals with unique nutritional needs.
- You can specialize: Depending on your program, you may be able to choose from several concentrations, including:
- Clinical Dietitian: This concentration prepares you to take the national examination to become a registered dietitian nutritionist.
- Food Science: This track teaches you the science and technology behind food production.
- Community Nutrition: This specialization emphasizes working in communities and with vulnerable populations to promote nutritional wellness and prevent disease.
- Education: This track focuses on the educational strategies that can help change behavior in individuals, communities, and specific populations.
3 Reasons for Getting Your Master's in Nutrition Online
- It's flexible. You can pursue a degree on your own schedule while also managing your career, relationships, and personal goals. Get it finished quickly by enrolling in an accelerated program, or prioritize a school-life balance by attending part time. It's all up to you.
- It can save you money. You'll minimize your opportunity costs because you'll finish your classes and keep working. And many online programs either cost less than traditional programs or require fewer in-person fees.
- It's legit. We have entered a higher education era where there are tons of truly excellent online programs available, and employers understand that an online degree is just as valuable as one earned on campus.
Read More: How to Become a Nutritionist
What Jobs Can You Get With a Master's in Nutrition Degree?
Graduates with an online master's in nutrition often pursue careers with community service organizations, public health departments, schools, and food companies. But you can also work as a self-employed nutritional counselor.
Plus, many go on to positions as nutritionists and dietitians working in hospitals and nursing care facilities.
Keep in mind: Effective Jan. 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration will require students to hold a graduate degree to take the credentialing exam to become registered dietitian nutritionists. As a result, a master's degree will become much more important for success in this field.
| Role | Annual salary range (2022) |
|---|---|
| Registered Dietician | $46,000-$70,000 |
| Health Coach | $41,000-$69,000 |
| Clinical Nutrition Manager | $57,000-$94,000 |
| Director Food and Nutrition Services | $53,000-$108,000 |
| Program Director, Healthcare | $60,000-$132,000 |
Read More: 10 Nutrition Jobs to Consider
How Much Money Will You Make With a Master's in Nutrition?
How Much Does an Online Master's in Nutrition Cost?
Average Annual Cost of a Master's Degree:
Public Institution | 2019-2020
$12,394
Private Institution | 2019-2020
$26,621
A master's degree isn't cheap. But there are ways to lower your costs:
- Choose an in-state, public school.
- Apply for scholarships and financial aid.
- Select an institution with affordable tuition and good student outcomes.
Read More: How Much Does Online College Cost?
How Long Does an Online Master's in Nutrition Take?
Most online master's in nutrition programs require students to complete 30-36 credits, which takes about two years. However, some online accelerated programs can lead to a degree in one year.
Required Course Credits*
30-40 credits
Field Study Requirements
Yes
*Varies depending on your school/program
Still Looking for the Right Fit in Healthcare? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
Everything Else You Need to Know About a Master's in Nutrition Degree
What courses will I take in a master's in nutrition program?
The core curriculum will typically include some version of the following courses:
- Research in Nutrition
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Nutritional Program Design
- Behavior Change in Health
- Nutrition and Disease Prevention
What can I do with a master's in nutrition?
A lot! With a master's in nutrition, you can become a registered dietitian. Registered dietitians find gainful employment across several industries, including:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care
- Skilled nursing care
- Special food services
- Local and federal government
- Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
- Scientific research and development
You can also opt to be your own boss and provide individualized nutritional counseling to personal clients. Or you can go on to get your Ph.D. and pursue teaching and research opportunities.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in nutrition?
Of all the master's in nutrition jobs, clinical practice and leadership roles in healthcare tend to pay the most.
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing is the highest-paying industry for those with an advanced degree in nutrition. According to the BLS, the annual mean wage in this industry was $93,920 in 2021.
