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

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,824
Out-of-state
$38,326
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,998
Out-of-state
$22,966
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
51,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,600
Out-of-state
$6,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$9,900
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
1,664
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
38,920
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
36,304
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
26,814
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,219
Out-of-state
$20,747
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,370
Out-of-state
$17,746
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
46,148
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$49,070
Out-of-state
$49,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$30,351
Out-of-state
$30,351
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
14,318
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,816
Out-of-state
$29,448
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,828
Out-of-state
$29,484
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
30,460
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,791
Out-of-state
$35,112
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,014
Out-of-state
$29,529
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
31,350
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education
Best Online Programs

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

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.

National Association of Nutrition Professionals
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.

American Society for Nutrition
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.

American Nutrition Association
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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