Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
Updated October 10, 2023
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Find your MS in Nutrition
Online nutrition master's programs prepare students for leadership positions in the health and wellness industry.
Dieticians and nutritionists promote healthy foods and eating habits, and in the United States, there is a growing demand for their expertise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that these positions will grow approximately 8% between 2019 and 2029.
A career in nutrition also pays well. According to the BLS, dieticians and nutritionists earn a median annual salary of $61,270. Top earners work in outpatient care centers, hospitals, government, and residential care facilities.
While a combination of undergraduate education and supervised training is sufficient to pursue licensure and entry-level employment, many professionals in this field hold advanced degrees. If you're interested in pursuing a master's degree in the field, our list of the top 15 online nutrition master's programs is a great place to begin your research. Here, you can learn more about the curriculum and career prospects students will encounter at top schools in the field.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Master's in Nutrition Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill hosts a top-rated online MPH in nutrition. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing enrollees for decision-making responsibilities. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of nutritional sciences. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends a background in nutritional sciences before applying.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 23%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: MPH in nutrition
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278
#2 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Austin offers an online master's in nutritional science. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing learners for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree helps graduates advance in their current field or pursue a new career.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program recommends a background in nutritional sciences or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
The University of Texas at Austin at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 32%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master's in nutritional science
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,998
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,966
#3 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
Logan University
Chesterfield, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online nutrition degree can enroll in the master of science in nutrition and human performance at Logan University, located in Chesterfield, Missouri. Students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in nutrition. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants who majored in nutrition or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through local internships. These and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Logan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of science in nutrition and human performance
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,900
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,900
#4 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
University of Georgia
Athens, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of science in foods and nutrition at University of Georgia, located in Athens, offers a flexible online format. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree also helps graduates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in nutrition. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The program builds on bachelor's-level nutrition experience.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of science in foods and nutrition
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,878
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,186
#5 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
North Carolina State University at Raleigh offers an online master of nutrition. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the nutritional sciences field and related industries. A master's degree can also lead graduates to new career paths.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in nutritional sciences. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a nutritional sciences background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees complete internships at approved sites in their own community. These and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of nutrition
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,095
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,421
#6 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Stony Brook, New York, Stony Brook University hosts a top-rated online master of science in nutrition. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing degree candidates for leadership positions. Master's graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with a background in nutrition typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internships at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Stony Brook University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 44%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of science in nutrition
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,100
#7 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
University of Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Texas-based University of Houston offers an online master of science in nutrition. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing learners for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to nutrition. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants with a background in nutrition typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees participate in internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of Houston at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of science in nutrition
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,370
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,746
#8 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
American University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Washington, District of Columbia, American University offers an online master of science in nutrition education. Enrollees train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. A master's degree can help graduates move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants without a nutritional sciences background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
American University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of science in nutrition education
Graduate Tuition In State: $30,351
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,351
#9 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Alabama-based Auburn University offers a flexible online master of science in nutrition. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing learners for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps graduates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to nutritional sciences. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in nutritional sciences or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Auburn University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: Master of science in nutrition
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,828
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,484
#10 Best Online Master’s in Nutrition
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Massachusetts-Amherst enrolls master's students in its online master of public health in nutrition program. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing students for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Master's graduates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to nutritional sciences. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused careers. Applicants without a background in nutritional sciences may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of public health in nutrition
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,014
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,529
Online Master's in Nutrition Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What Is an Online Master's in Nutrition Degree?
Completing a nutrition master's online helps students develop advanced skills in applied research, nutrition consulting, and dietetics. Nutrition programs frequently offer concentration and elective options designed to fit specific career goals, including tracks in clinical nutrition, sports nutrition, or eating disorders. Students may also receive opportunities to develop professional skills like grant writing and healthcare administration.
Nutrition master's programs attract students interested in several fields, including community health, food science, and sports nutrition. Learners are often entry-level or midcareer professionals looking to advance to leadership positions.
These programs strive to prepare students to meet the country's growing demand for nutrition professionals. Graduates can pursue employment in clinical, educational, research, and community health settings.
Choosing an Online Program
Online programs offer flexibility to students with full-time jobs, families, and other obligations. To determine which online program best fits your unique needs and goals, consider factors like school size, cost, curriculum, and availability of resources for online students. Read on for more college selection tips.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master's in Nutrition Program?
Specific courses in a master's in nutrition online vary depending on specific program goals, including whether students are preparing for careers in clinical nutrition, nutrition education, or research. Courses often cover theory, research, and practice in specialized areas like the prevention of chronic diseases, food services management, and nutrition counseling.
Nutrition Curriculum
- Biostatistics: Students in this course learn to apply statistical methods to health sciences. Typically designed for students with a minimal mathematical background, this course covers concepts of experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and statistical inferences. Students also learn about elementary probability and simple linear regression.
- Lifecycle Nutrition: This course allows students to explore the changing nutritional needs of different age groups. Topics include the role of nutrition in growth, mental and physical development, and specific transitions such as puberty and pregnancy.
- Nutrition Policy: This course introduces students to policy approaches used to improve public health and nutrition. Topics include legislative advocacy, rationale for nutrition policies, and other current issues in the political environment. Students examine and analyze current nutrition programs at the local, state, and federal levels.
Nutrition Careers
Nutritionists
| Median Salary: $61,270 | Projected Job Growth: 8% |
|---|
Nutritionists educate patients and clients on how to promote health and manage disease through diet. Nutritionists may work in clinical settings or community settings, creating customized nutrition programs for individual patients and specific groups of people. Common tasks include assessing client health needs, counseling clients on nutrition issues, and documenting client progress.
Nutritionists typically need at least a bachelor's degree and several hundred hours of supervised training, usually in the form of an internship. States generally require licensure to practice. nutritionists may also pursue the Registered Dietician Nutritionist certificate.
Food Scientists
| Median Salary: $65,160 | Projected Job Growth: 6% |
|---|
Food scientists use chemistry and biology to analyze nutritional content, discover new food sources, and research the health and safety of processed foods. Food scientists also enforce government regulations in food processing.
Food scientists need a bachelor's degree in a field such as agricultural science, biology, or chemistry. Many professionals choose to pursue advanced degrees in applied topics like nutrition and dietetics.
Healthcare Administrators
| Median Salary: $100,980 | Projected Job Growth: 32% |
|---|
Healthcare administrators plan, direct, and coordinate services offered in medical and health facilities. They may manage an entire facility, a specific department, or a medical practice for a group of physicians. Common tasks include preparing and monitoring budgets, developing goals and objectives, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
At minimum, healthcare administrators must hold a bachelor's degree, but some employers prefer candidates with advanced degrees. Relevant experience in an administrative or clinical role is generally required.
Nutrition Professional Organizations
Like all scientific fields, nutrition is constantly evolving, requiring extensive funding, strong advocacy, and effective communication between researchers and practitioners. The professional organizations listed below serve current and aspiring nutrition professionals by providing continuing education, access to peer-reviewed journals, and career support.
College students can often join these organizations at a reduced membership rate.
The NANP is the only professional business association dedicated to the holistic nutrition industry. The NANP develops educational standards for holistic nutrition, natural chef training, and dietary supplement education programs. Membership benefits include forum access, a free online directory listing, and first access to new jobs posted by the NANP career center.
The ASN strives to create a healthier world through evidence-based nutrition information and practice. Members receive access to online discussion communities, four scholarly journals, and continuing education opportunities.
The ANA is a professional organization committed to advancing personalized nutrition through education, certification, advocacy, and connection. The ANA offers the Certified Nutrition Specialist certificate, free monthly webinars, and online directories of nutrition programs and practitioners. Members receive access to training program discounts, an online job board, and a mentorship program.
Earning your Nutrition Degree
How long does it take to complete a master's in nutrition program?
Completing a master of nutrition online typically takes 1-3 years, depending on credit requirements, individual student pacing, and internship requirements.
What can I do with a master's in nutrition?
Nutrition master's programs prepare graduates for advanced opportunities in a variety of industries including dietetics, food science, and public health.
How much do you make as a nutritionist?
According to the BLS, dieticians and nutritionists earn a median annual salary of $61,270. Individual salary potential varies by experience, employer, and geographic location.
What is a nutritionist?
Nutritionists are expert professionals who provide advice regarding food, nutrition, and human health. Nutritionists may specialize in areas like sports nutrition or public health.
What is a master's in nutrition?
A master's in nutrition focuses on addressing modern nutritional issues. This degree prepares graduates to counsel and educate others about nutrition and health.
What is the difference between a dietician and a nutritionist?
All dieticians are licensed, board-certified experts. Depending on state regulations, nutritionists may or may not need to meet specific education and licensure requirements.
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