Nutrition is always high on the list of governments and social institutions. A central aspect of successful family life healthy living and good nutrition. Nutritionists are always in demand. And, 2021 is seeing new and exciting trends in the field, which make now a great time to earn an online Master’s degree in Nutrition. According to US News &World Report, prebiotics and allergen-free nutrition sources are on the rise. Nutra predicts that nutritionists will need to become much more aware of food’s provenance and be able to apply technology and technical data to nutrition plans.
If you would like to help improve the overall healthcare of others, earning an online Master of Nutrition degree is the way to go. Your expertise and knowledge will be used to help others understand the principles of a healthy diet and lifestyle. As an expert in nutrition, you will have a wide variety of employment and collaborative opportunities such as nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, cafeterias, and governmental entities. Pay is excellent with an average annual salary of just over $60,000. Jobs are increasing in the field as well. An 11% growth is predicted between 2018 and 2028.
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- Top 13 Online Schools for Master’s of Nutrition Degree Programs
- NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
- NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY
- NEW YORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
- CANISIUS COLLEGE
- AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
- BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY
- TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY
- ADELPHI UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST
- THE SAGE COLLEGES
- NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
- CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
- Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to begin? Start with our choices of the 8 Best Online Schools for Bachelor of Nutrition Degrees
Top 13 Online Schools for Master’s of Nutrition Degree Programs
METHODOLOGY: The editors of OnlineSchoolsCenter.com collect the most important and relevant data about colleges, universities, and campus facilities from various highly respected sources and offer them in a simple format that is easy to understand. This ranking was researched and written according to the following components:
- Promotes innovative ideas and techniques used in today’s field of Nutrition and Dietetics, designed to build on existing skills,
- Provides a comprehensive look at health promotion, metabolism, disease prevention and nutrition,
- Offers several concentration options in the field of Nutrition, where applicable,
- Perfect for working professionals who need to expand their skills and career options in Nutrition,
- Student’s satisfaction according to retention rates no lower than 50%,
- Reviews listed on accredited resources listing college and university statistics,
- Prestige and notability as an online school according to reputable academic and journalistic resources,
- Ease of Transfer Course Credits into a Doctorate degree program,
- Financial Aid options through Grants, Scholarships and Military Discounts,
- Provides Online Learning Management Support Systems,
- 100% online availability, offering flexibility and convenience,
- Displays proper Accreditation, provides Course and Program options, as well as, positive Degree outcomes.
In compiling this list, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com chose not to list the schools in any particular order, but instead highlighted thirteen of the very best online Master’s of Nutrition degree programs, all of which have their own uniqueness and strengths.
For more information, see our Methodology page.
NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Online Master’s in Applied Nutrition Degree Program
Program Standouts:
Northeastern University offers an online program that is specifically designed for students with an undergraduate background in the health sciences. The program builds on the existing knowledge that different students bring to the virtual classroom, and through one of the four concentration areas, students massively expand their career options.
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition and Fees:
- $615 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Institutional and alternative scholarship opportunities; federal and supplemental loans; federal and state grants; employer reimbursement; various payment plans; Military and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 27.4%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, official undergraduate degree documentation, statement of purpose, professional resume, two letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- Obesity and Eating Disorders
- Nutrition Education
- Nutrition and Fitness
- Business and Entrepreneurship in Nutrition
Degree Outcomes:
Among many new and refined skills graduate students gain in this impressive distance education program, alumni will show strong capabilities in scientific research and “exploring the application of nutrition principles to the treatment and prevention of diseases.”
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER’S IN APPLIED NUTRITION DEGREE PROGRAM
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY
Master of Nutrition Online Degree
Program Standouts:
The curriculum of North Carolina State University’s online Master of Nutrition program is designed to give graduate students the preparation necessary to qualify for the Professional Science Masters designation. The concentration options give students a unique lens into the field of nutrition science.
Campus Location: Raleigh, NC
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $385 per credit hour—in-state tuition
- $870 per credit hour—out-of-state tuition
Types of Aid: Institutional and alternative scholarships, federal and state grants; departmental awards; tuition reimbursement; various payment plans; Veterans benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 51.4%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts of all post-secondary coursework, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores.
Program Options:
- Human Nutrition, Food, and Bioprocessing
- Food Science
Degree Outcomes:
NCSU students will have a plethora of new career paths and employment opportunities through which to apply their refined knowledge of nutrition. Particularly because of the distinctive specialization areas and the qualifications of NC State students, alumni go on to achieve fulfilling professions.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER OF NUTRITION DEGREE
NEW YORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Master of Clinical Nutrition Distance Learning Degree Program
Program Standouts:
The New York Institute of Technology School of Health Professions offers students an online Master of Clinical Nutrition “that integrates biomedical and nutrition sciences to develop an understanding of medical nutrition therapy,” according to the department’s mission statement. The program is clinically focused but is designed to host a variety of coursework.
Campus Location: New York, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
Tuition and Fees:
- $1,155 per credit hour—tuition
- $50 one time—application fee
Types of Aid: Institutional tuition assistance; aid for part-time study; Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation; federal grants and loans; private loans; and institutional and private scholarships.
Acceptance Rate: 76.9%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution/s representing a GPA of 2.85 or above, and GRE scores. Applicants will be required to complete an introductory course in Clinical Nutrition Practice, and some students may be required to complete an interview.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Critical Nutrition Assessment
- Nutrition Pharmacology
- Critical Issues in the Food Supply
Degree Outcomes:
Upon graduating from New York Tech, graduates will possess a vast understanding of the field and will be able to produce beneficial research to the health industry. Among many skills, alumni are able to review, evaluate, and critique professional nutrition research and resources; and formulate plans for maximizing wellness and prevention of chronic disease.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NEW YORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY’S ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CLINICAL NUTRITION DEGREE PROGRAM
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
MS in Nutritional Science E-Learning Degree Program
Program Standouts:
Arizona State University’s School of Nutrition and Health Promotion has an online Master of Nutrition (Dietetics) that is focused on “advancing student-specific practitioner skillsets to promote individual career goals.” As the field continues to expand, so does the ASU online masters program.
Campus Location: Tempe, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of College and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $492 per credit hour—tuition
- $70 one time ($90 for international students)—application fee
Types of Aid: Institutional and private scholarships; federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities; Military and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 84.1%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and some students may be also required to submit GRE or GMAT scores and letters of recommendation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Mindful Eating
- Human Nutrition
- Food Service Purchasing
Degree Outcomes:
Employment opportunities vary for ASU Nutrition alumni who all exhibit creative, knowledgeable, and forward-thinking registered dietitians. Graduate students are taught refined skills in project management, interpretation of research literature, critical inquiry, and problem-solving.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE (M.S.) IN NUTRITION
CANISIUS COLLEGE
Online Master of Applied Nutrition Degree
Program Standouts:
Canisius College offers a Master of Applied Nutrition with two unique specialty tracks for students and professionals seeking to expand their understanding of the health sciences field. Whether students concentrate in Obesity and Eating Disorders, or Fitness and Sports Nutrition, they will also receive a solid foundation of courses in current practices.
Campus Location: Buffalo, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Association Commission on Higher Education
Tuition and Fees:
- $780 per credit hour—tuition
- $132 per semester (9+ credit hours); $11 per credit (1-8 credit hours)—college fee
- $90 per semester (9+ credit hours); $7.50 per credit (1-8 credit hours)—technology fee
Types of Aid: Institutional, federal, and state grants; federal and private loans; student employment opportunities; institutional scholarships; alternative financing.
Acceptance Rate: 78.2%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a GPA of 2.7 or higher, two letters of recommendation, preferred current licensure as a Registered Dietitian or applicable academic experience, and a current resume. Applicants must complete a phone interview.
Program Options:
- Obesity and Eating Disorders
- Fitness and Sports Nutrition
Degree Outcomes:
Through one of these two specializations, graduates produce pivotal research and provide support in areas that are both personally fulfilling and crucial roles within the discipline. Census graduates are part of a diverse online cohort through which they expand upon their professional knowledge.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CANISIUS COLLEGE’S ONLINE MASTER’S IN APPLIED NUTRITION
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
Master’s in Nutrition Education Distance Learning Program
Program Standouts:
American University offers a highly-reviewed program in Nutrition Education, which gives students the technique and understanding to educate their communities and beyond on proper diet and healthier life! This distinct program stands out among many, giving students unique skills and broadly expanding on current knowledge.
Campus Location: Washington, DC
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $1,526 per credit hour—tuition
- $120 (9+ credit hours); $40 (1-8 credit hours)—technology fee
Types of Aid: Departmental and institutional scholarships; federal and alternative credit-based loans; Veterans’ benefits; student work opportunities; payment plans.
Acceptance Rate: 29.4%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the application fee, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a current resume or CV, and a statement of purpose.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Health Communication
- Multicultural Health
- Vitamins and Minerals
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from American University will display strong capabilities in many areas and will be able to use communication strategies such as social marketing and consumer-friendly health writing to communicate to the public and advocate for nutritional health, having gained an understanding of how nutritional health intersects with many other health topics such as physical activity, child development, aging, quality of life, disease prevention, and health policy.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER’S IN NUTRITION EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAM
BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY
Online Master’s in Nutrition and Wellness
Program Standouts:
Benedictine University offers an online Masters in Nutrition and Wellness. The curriculum provides students with a “multi-dimensional study of health” that will vastly expand upon current’ professionals’ understanding of the field. Students gain strong skills in the researching component of the degree.
Campus Location: Lisle, IL
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $650 per credit hour—tuition
- $40 one time—application fee
Types of Aid: Institutional scholarships and awards; tuition reimbursement; corporate partnerships; federal loans; Military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 62.2%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the application fee, official transcripts, a goals statement, letter of reference, and GMAT/GRE scores.
Program Options:
- Health Education
- Nutrition Entrepreneurship
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from Benedictine University will have bright opportunities to expand their current careers, climbing higher in their current field; or create a new career, each with more opportunities and a higher salary. Benedictine alumni have achieved employment positions as clinical/community registered dietician, clinical dietitian manager, corporate wellness program director, and more.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER’S IN NUTRITION WELLNESS DEGREE PROGRAM
TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY
Online MS in Nutrition Degree Program
Program Standouts:
The Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences at Texas Woman’s University offers an online Master in Nutrition with a hugely diverse curriculum, allowing students to follow a certain interest. The degree is delivered through a broader view of wellness, community, and the environment, giving students skills to communicate with their local communities.
Campus Location: Denton, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $243.32 per credit hour—in-state tuition
- $633.32 per credit hour—out-of-state tuition
- $22.50 per credit hour—technology fee
- $11 per credit hour—instructional enhancement fee
- $25 per credit hour (courses beginning with 5)—program fee
- $31.25 per credit hour—student services fee
Types of Aid: Institutional, private, and alternative scholarships; out-of-state waivers; federal, state, and private grants; student employment opportunities; federal loans; Military aid.
Acceptance Rate: 85.7%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, official transcripts that represent show a GPA of 3.25 or higher for the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework, GRE scores, and a current resume representing relevant work experience.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Eating Disorders and Eating Behaviors
- Nutrition and Gerontology
- Nutritional Aspects of Vegetarianism
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from Texas Woman’s University have gone on to achieve many different employment/ academic opportunities, including but not limited to: esteemed Ph.D. programs, interaction, marketing, consultation, complementary healthcare, writer/publisher, and more!
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MS IN NUTRITION
ADELPHI UNIVERSITY
MS in Nutrition E-Learning Degree Program
Program Standouts:
As trends and techniques in the industry continue to emerge, Adelphi University provides its students with an online Master of Nutrition that offers the most relevant practices. This degree program opens up huge opportunities on many students’ horizons—the curriculum involves coursework in general nutrition and healthcare, but also gives students pathways to pursue new and exciting areas of the discipline.
Campus Location: Garden City, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $900 per credit hour—tuition
- $370 per 1-6 credit hours; $425 per 7-11 credit hours; $635 per 12+ credit hours—university and technology fees
Types of Aid: Federal loans; federal and state grants; institutional and alternative scholarships and awards; payment plans; Military and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 73.1%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a GPA of 2.75 or higher, completion of prerequisite courses, a statement of goals, and two letters of recommendation. Applicants must complete a personal interview.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Nutrition and Physical Activity
- Community Nutrition
- Recent Advances in Macronutrients
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from Adelphi University’s online Master of Nutrition program will exhibit strong capabilities in many key areas, such as successful communication of proper eating habits, planning and executing programs or research initiatives, and provide leadership in creating these programs. Alumni have found positions in industries such as clinical, community and public health, education and research, business and industry, wellness, and media.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ADELPHI UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NUTRITION DEGREE PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST
Online Master of Public Health in Nutrition Degree
Program Standouts:
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers an online Master of Public Health in Nutrition, “the only fully accredited and fully online program of its kind.” The diverse online cohort brings many different schools of thought to the virtual classroom, giving students an immensely broad education and preparation for future career opportunities.
Campus Location: Amherst, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; Council on Education in Public Health
Tuition and Fees:
- $605 per credit hour—tuition
- $45 per semester—registration fee
- $357 one time—graduate school entrance fee
- $75 one time—application fee
Types of Aid: Federal loans and grants; state grants, scholarships, and tuition waivers; institutional and alternative scholarships and awards; agency/corporate billing; various payment plans; students’ employment opportunities; Military and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 57.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the application fee, official transcripts representing a GPA of 2.75 or higher, a current resume representing at least two years of relevant experience, two undergraduate courses in Nutrition and one course in Human Physiology, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Nutritional Epidemiology
- Nutritional Problems in the U.S.
- Environmental Health Practices
Degree Outcomes:
UMass Amherst’s unique online program is designed to expand the public health knowledge of public health, health care, and nutritionist professionals into broader areas. This degree program will give students access to otherwise closed-off areas of their profession, allowing them to maneuver more deeply within the public healthcare system.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS-AMHERST’S ONLINE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND HEALTH SCIENCES
THE SAGE COLLEGES
MS in Applied Nutrition Online
Program Standouts:
According to the Program Philosophy, “The applied Nutrition graduate program is based on a solid scientific foundation with a strong focus on research, nutritional epidemiology, public health perspectives, and nutrition communications.” Students are immersed in a curriculum that broadens their knowledge of the field in unique areas.
Campus Location: Albany, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition and Fees:
- $660 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants, loans, and award programs; and tuition rewards program.
Acceptance Rate: 93%
Admission Requirements:
Applicant must submit a completed application, official transcripts representing a GPA of 3.0 or higher (some applicants may be required to take prerequisite courses), and a current resume with relevant experience.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Weight Management
- Leadership Development
- Healthcare Strategy
Degree Outcomes:
This exciting program provides several pathways through which students can obtain an esteemed degree in Nutrition, whether students have an academic/professional background in the field or not. Students may want to complete relevant internships or not—either way Sage graduates exit the program with exciting opportunities.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RUSSELL SAGE COLLEGE’S ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED NUTRITION
NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
online Master’s in Dietetics
Program Standouts:
North Dakota State University offers an online Master’s in Dietetics that is focused around the development of refined research skills, critical thinking, and learning “up-to-date knowledge in Medical Nutrition Therapy and foodservice business management.” This distinctive program will prepare students for a great number of opportunities in the food science and nutrition sectors.
Campus Location: Fargo, ND
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition and Fees:
- $530 per credit hour—tuition and fees
Types of Aid: Federal loans, grants, and work-study opportunities; various payment plans; numerous Military and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 91.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, official transcripts from an accredited institution/s in a relevant area representing a GPA of 3.0 or higher, a writing sample, and some applicants may be required to submit additional documentation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Nutrition Education in the Community
- Sports Nutrition
- Foodservice Operations and Management
Degree Outcomes:
This degree prepares students for a career in several prudent areas: food service business and nutrition. Upon graduation, students will be able to expand their employment opportunities to include much more than public health.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN DIETETICS
CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
online Master of Nutrition and Dietetics program
Program Standouts:
Central Michigan University offers its students an online Master in Nutrition and Dietetics program “to benefit both new and experienced professionals.” This program attracts students from numerous disciplines related to the field, which makes for a vibrant and diverse online cohort.
Campus Location: Mount Pleasant, MI
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition and Fees:
- $555 per credit hour—tuition
- $316 per credit hour—Military tuition
- $50 one time—application fee
Types of Aid: Federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans; numerous Military and Veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 67.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the application fee official transcripts representing a GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of coursework, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of goals. Applicants must have successfully completed the requirements for dietetic registration by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or complete at least two courses in nutrition and one course in anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, and organic chemistry.
Program Options:
- Thesis Option
- Internship Option
- Coursework Option
Degree Outcomes:
Distance education CMU students have a number of options when designing their personal plan of study. Upon graduation, they will have accomplished a diverse course load that will prepare them for current practices in exciting sectors of the field.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NUTRITION AND DIETETICS DEGREE PROGRAM
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Have you decided what you would like to do with your online Master of Nutrition degree? If not, here’s a suggestion…
So, you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree and the time has come to continue your educational journey. In this field, earning your online master’s degree in nutrition can take you through to the next step in your career. With furthering your academics, as well as, extensive clinical training, you can become a licensed registered dietitian.
Licensed registered dietitians can work in a variety of settings, such as in research departments, clinics, hospitals, schools or nursing home cafeterias, or through their own private consulting practice. They are also often hired to educate the public, through teachings at neighborhood community centers, about the need for nutritional foods and exercise. Dietitians are highly trained to advocate healthy lifestyles, help individuals control their weight, in addition to, managing health issues or related digestive diseases.
Did you know that licensing is a requirement to be a registered dietitian? Yes, it’s true…
Due to the nature of being a dietitian or nutritionist, you will be required by law to gain licensure. Although each state has its own stipulations for the preferred educational experience, most need a minimum bachelor’s degree, and some states require a master’s degree, depending on which subject you have majored in.
Also, to advance in your career, additional certifications are available through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) of the American Dietetic Association. To participate, you must have a degree, as well as, internship experience. And, yes, you will need to pass their examination to get your certification.
wOULD YOU LIKE TO explore your potential salary as a licensed registered dietitiaN?
The field of licensed registered dietitians is projected to grow by about 15 percent between 2016 and 2026, according to the BLS. This increase may be contributed to two factors. First, the growing number of individuals contracting illnesses is on the rise. Many risk factors, such as high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease, obesity, or Crohn’s disease require a special diet.
And secondly, now more than ever, many individuals are eating healthier diets, exercising, and genuinely attempting to improve and prolong their lives. In both cases, dietitians with the proper knowledge are needed.
The typical salary for a licensed registered dietitian was $60,370 per year, as of May 2018, according to the BLS. The highest ten percent were paid upwards of $84610 annually, depending on experience, education, and job location.
“Our bodies are our gardens, our wills are our gardeners.” – William Shakespeare