Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs of 2024

Help people improve their health by earning an online nutrition degree. Here, we list the best online nutrition programs.
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Updated February 7, 2024

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

Nutritionists are experts in healthy food, healthy eating habits, and using nutrition to help people lead healthy lives. They help clients and patients maximize their health by eating an appropriate diet and avoiding obesity and related health conditions.

Learn how to earn a nutritional science degree online and what you can do with it after graduation.

Popular Online Healthcare Programs

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

Online Nutrition Degree Programs Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ
$10,710 $12,984 70%
#2 Parker University
Dallas, TX
$23,760 $23,760 Not provided
#3 University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
$10,990 $33,739 87%
#4 Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
$9,489 $25,560 96%
#5 Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
West Lafayette, IN
$10,080 $13,356 Not provided
#6 The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
$10,780 $30,250 79%

Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs

#1 Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs of 2024

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

  • Scottsdale, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $714

Out-of-State | $714

Credits to Graduate: 120

Arizona State University's bachelor's degree in nutrition trains future entrepreneurs to find solutions to issues confronting the food industry, such as plastic waste. Students can customize their education through one of three tracks, including community nutrition, food service operations, or pre-dietetics.

The program comprises 40 courses that span 7.5-15 weeks. Courses include applied food principles, nutrition communication, essentials of marketing, and nutrition in the life cycle. Graduates are prepared to take the ServeSafe certified exam. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$12,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,774
Out-of-state
$9,774
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
57,848
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs of 2024

Parker University

  • Dallas, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $710

Out-of-State | $710

Credits to Graduate: 120

Enrolling in Parker University's bachelor's in nutrition degree online offers a focus on disease prevention and health and wellness. Major coursework includes 74 credits in subjects, such as nutrition, food science and systems, nutrition counseling, food and culture, and the psychology of eating behavior. It takes 10-15 terms to complete this degree and the required capstone project.

All prospect students must complete an interview and submit an online application with official transcripts. Undergraduate candidates must hold a high school diploma, GED certificate, or 24 college credits. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,760
Out-of-state
$23,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,954
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs of 2024

University of Arizona

  • Tucson, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $525

Out-of-State | $525

Credits to Graduate: 120

Pursuing the University of Arizona's nutrition degree online lets students choose from two emphases in nutrition or dietetics. The dietetics concentration prepares learners for UArizona's Professional Science Master's in Applied Nutrition program and to kick off a career as a registered dietician. The dietician emphasis requires additional coursework in topics, such as nutritional biology and foundations in medical nutrition therapy. Nutrition majors take courses in sports nutrition and nutrigenomics.

Applicants without an associate degree must submit proof of a high school diploma or GED certificate. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,739
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,106
Out-of-state
$32,290
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
48,274
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs of 2024

Kansas State University

  • Manhattan, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $468

Out-of-State | $468

Credits to Graduate: 120

Enrollees in Kansas State's bachelor's degree in nutrition can earn master's-level credits simultaneously. Concurrent degree options offer the opportunity to earn a master's and bachelor's degree in less than six years, while specializing in either public health or dietetics, nutrition, and sensory sciences. The program comprises 33 professional studies credits in topics like basic nutrition, life span nutrition, public health nutrition, and nutritional assessments. 

K-State also offers bachelor's degrees in dietetics or food science. Incoming freshmen with a 3.25 high school GPA or transfer students with a 2.0 GPA can apply. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,489
Out-of-state
$25,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,294
Out-of-state
$23,018
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
20,229
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs of 2024

Purdue University Global-Indianapolis

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: National Association of Nutrition Professionals

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $371

Out-of-State | $371

Credits to Graduate: 120

Purdue Global's nutritional science degree provides the opportunity to specialize in holistic nutrition and acquire practical skills through an optional internship. The program spans four years and includes 33 courses that integrate healthcare and nutritional science. The courses cover food safety, foodservice management, and nutritional counseling. Earning a nutrition science degree also requires a capstone. Free tutoring, seminars, and discussion boards offer mentoring from faculty. 

To later pursue a master's degree from the School of Health Sciences, learners can take five graduate-level courses as a bachelor's student. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,730
Out-of-state
$9,700
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
43,458
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Nutrition Degree Programs of 2024

The University of Alabama

  • Tuscaloosa, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $385

Out-of-State | $385

Credits to Graduate: 120

The 1831-founded University of Alabama's bachelor's degree in nutrition lets students earn up to 15 credits toward an accelerated master's in human nutrition. Graduation requirements include 59 major courses in food science, community nutrition, nutritional biochemistry, and medical nutrition therapy. To earn the degree, students must complete a professional independent study under the direction of a faculty member.

Transfer in with at least 24 credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA or apply as a freshman applicant by submitting ACT or SAT scores and official transcripts.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
38,316
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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Why You Should Get a Nutritionist Degree Online

Online Nutrition Degree Application Requirements

  • Online application
  • Official high school transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Resume or CV
  • SAT or ACT scores, if required
  • Application fee

Coursework for an Online Nutrition Degree

In an online bachelor's degree in nutrition program, you can expect to take a combination of general education courses, core nutrition courses, and electives.

You'll gain an in-depth understanding of topics like digestion, absorption, and metabolism.

You'll also study the pharmacology of nutrition and lifestyle choices. In addition, you'll build ethical, administrative, and professional skills for diverse positions in healthcare or public health.

Accredited bachelor’s programs prepare you for further education in nutrition, which is required for industry certification. Some online nutrition programs are 100% online, whereas others may have in-person requirements.

Here are some examples of classes you may take for your online nutrition degree:

Nutritionist Salary and Career Outlook

Nutritionists and dietitians earn a median annual salary of $66,450, according to the BLS.

What you'll earn will depend on factors like your title and location.

Common Job Titles for Nutrition Degree-Holders and their Annual Average Salaries
Careers Annual Average Salary
Registered Dietitian (RD) $58,880
Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) $56,000
Dietetics Technician $45,470
Health Education Specialists $ 66,710
Food Safety Auditor $63,480
Food Scientists and Technologists $85,730
Source: Payscale, BLS

Nutritionists can earn advanced degrees and optional certifications to increase their salary potential. According to a 2021 survey by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) earned a median annual salary of $70,000. RDNs employed full-time for more than a year earned a median salary of $72,000.

Meanwhile, nutrition and dietetics technicians earned a median salary of $48,300 per year.

Your location can also affect your earning potential as a nutritionist. Explore below to see the median nutritionist salary by state.

Nutritionist Certification and Licensure

Many states require nutritionists to hold a license. Check with your state for more information on licensure requirements for nutritionists.

State licensure requirements usually include a minimum of a bachelor's degree in food, nutrition, or a related area. You'll also likely need to complete a supervised practice and pass an exam.

Aside from state licensure, nutritionists can pursue optional certifications in specialized areas. Earning an additional certification can open new career prospects and increase your salary potential and scope of practice.

Common nutritionist certifications include:

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nutrition Degrees

What degree is best for a nutritionist?

You need at least a master's degree in nutrition to enter the field of nutrition and dietetics. The highest-level certification from the American Nutrition Association, Certified Nutrition Specialist, requires a master's in dietetics, healthcare, or related areas. Becoming a registered dietitian also requires a master's degree in dietetics or a related area.

Is a nutrition degree hard?

Nutrition is a science-based degree, so you'll need to be comfortable with coursework heavy in math and science. Even if you find math and science difficult, you can successfully earn a bachelor's degree in nutrition with persistence and support from your professors and university.

What's the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian?

A dietitian is a nutritionist with extra qualifications that allow them to work with patients in clinical settings. A dietitian is a more highly regulated credential than a nutritionist. If you become a dietitian, you'll be able to work with clients to treat clinical conditions like eating disorders.

Is it worth doing a nutrition degree?

The return on investment of a nutrition degree, such as a bachelor's degree in nutrition, depends on your goals and interests. If you are looking for a career with above-average job growth and salary, options of working in a variety of settings, and the opportunity to make a difference in peoples' health and lives, a nutrition degree online or on-campus program could well be worth the effort.

Is a nutritionist certification worth it?

A nutritionist certification demonstrates your educational background and commitment to professional development as a nutritionist, so it can be worth it if it makes you stand out as a candidate. To see the benefit you might get from certification as a Certified Nutrition Specialist, look at job listings for positions you want. The more often certifications are required or listed as desirable, the more valuable it will likely be for you.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by TheBestSchools. Page last reviewed January 4, 2024.

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