Central Michigan University (CMU) offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics degree with thesis, internship, and coursework options. This program requires 31-37 credits, with classes offered in six condensed eight-week terms per year. Students in all tracks learn about macronutrients, micronutrients, advanced nutritional assessment, research methods and biostatistics,
Best Online Master's in Nutrition Programs
An online master's in nutrition provides in-depth knowledge about the science of food, especially how diet can enhance both individual and societal health and wellness. The following list ranks 25 accredited schools based on their 10-year return on investment for a master's in nutrition. Earning the degree can open up access to higher-paying positions as well as the ability to specialize. Furthermore, dietitians and nutritionists are in demand, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting faster-than-average job growth of 11% for dietitians and nutritionists through 2030.
2021 Best Online Colleges Offering Master's in Nutrition Degrees

The 25 schools below offer top online master’s degrees in nutrition based on return on investment (ROI). Sixteen of these schools have ROIs that exceed the national average of $440,700. We calculated ROI amounts by estimating accumulated earnings 10 years after graduation and factoring in student loans. Our ROI rankings consider both income and debt so students can assess how profitable a degree may be in the future. From this list, Central Michigan University takes the top spot with an ROI of $583,200 and has an annual tuition of $10,192.
ROI amounts are based on data reported by the U.S. Department of Education. Tuitions are manually researched in order to determine tuition amounts specific to online degrees. Read our methodology for more details.
Rank | School | Annual Tuition | Median Starting Salary | Median Debt | 10-year ROI |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Central Michigan University | $10,192 | $59,124 | $20,500 | $583,200 | |
Arizona State University | $10,845 | $56,641 | $22,783 | $554,700 | |
Immaculata University | $10,650 | $56,776 | $43,180 | $530,700 | |
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | $8,900 | $52,107 | $25,124 | $505,200 | |
The Sage Colleges | $14,100 | $52,107 | $30,571 | $498,400 | |
Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus | $16,011 | $51,750 | $33,872 | $490,600 | |
Texas Woman's University | $20,691 | $50,515 | $25,570 | $488,200 | |
Utah State University | $10,496 | $48,432 | $16,776 | $477,700 | |
SUNY Oneonta | $20,340 | $48,600 | $21,711 | $473,300 | |
American University | $32,616 | $52,107 | $51,250 | $472,600 | |
University of Bridgeport | $15,525 | $50,231 | $36,317 | $471,900 | |
University of North Florida | $14,391 | $48,667 | $27,625 | $466,600 | |
Ball State University | $12,234 | $46,833 | $20,500 | $456,600 | |
Benedictine University | $10,500 | $48,823 | $41,835 | $450,500 | |
University of Kansas | $10,440 | $46,589 | $25,000 | $448,500 | |
Texas Tech University | $13,518 | $48,901 | $23,312 | $441,400 | |
Appalachian State University | $17,910 | $46,869 | $37,009 | $436,400 | |
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | $35,387 | $51,273 | $87,691 | $418,600 | |
University of Western States | $15,720 | $45,696 | $45,558 | $413,700 | |
University of Nebraska-Lincoln | $10,620 | $41,342 | $14,596 | $407,400 | |
Logan University | $8,100 | $44,971 | $51,000 | $399,500 | |
Northeastern University | $17,365 | $40,647 | $34,995 | $374,900 | |
Eastern Michigan University | $13,590 | $40,040 | $41,000 | $361,200 | |
New York Chiropractic College | $13,212 | $33,281 | $26,562 | $309,500 | |
Maryland University of Integrative Health | $15,876 | $35,060 | $54,666 | $292,900 |
Best Master's Degrees in Nutrition Rankings Details
#1
Central Michigan University
- 10-Year ROI: $583,200
- Median Salary: $59,124
- Annual Tuition: $10,192
- Median Debt: $20,500
#2
Arizona State University
- 10-Year ROI: $554,700
- Median Salary: $56,641
- Annual Tuition: $10,845
- Median Debt: $22,783
Arizona State University (ASU) offers two options for graduate students in nutrition: Master of Science in Nutritional Science (Dietetics) and a Master of Science in Medical Nutrition. Both online programs require 30 credit hours for completion and are focused on practical application for those already working in the medical field. Students can expect to take classes such as Statistics
#3
Immaculata University
- 10-Year ROI: $530,700
- Median Salary: $56,776
- Annual Tuition: $10,650
- Median Debt: $43,180
Immaculata University (IU) offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition Education and Counseling degree that can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis. This 30-credit program instructs students in human development, interpersonal relations, nutrition in the life cycle, health counseling, principles of nutrition education, and more. The program culminates in a capstone
#4
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
- 10-Year ROI: $505,200
- Median Salary: $52,107
- Annual Tuition: $8,900
- Median Debt: $25,124
Bowling Green State University (BGSU) offers an online Master’s of Food and Nutrition degree. This degree program requires 39-40 credits and can be completed in two years on a full-time basis, or up to six years on a part-time basis. Courses cover clinical nutrition, micronutrients, macronutrients, weight management, public health, psychology, microbiology, and more. Aspects of
#5
The Sage Colleges
- 10-Year ROI: $498,400
- Median Salary: $52,107
- Annual Tuition: $14,100
- Median Debt: $30,571
The Sage Colleges offer an online Master of Science in Applied Nutrition degree and a combined Master of Science in Applied Nutrition/Dietetic Internship program. The M.S. emphasizes how to evaluate nutrition research, assess program effectiveness, and implement critical thinking and analytical skills. Students can choose to study on a full-time or part-time basis. The program is
#6
Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus
- 10-Year ROI: $490,600
- Median Salary: $51,750
- Annual Tuition: $16,011
- Median Debt: $33,872
Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) offers an online Master of Science in Food and Nutrition degree, with options including a general degree or a concentration in administration or education. All program tracks can be completed in a total of 16 months, and all give students the option to write a thesis. The core curriculum covers research methods, macronutrients, micronutrients,
#7
Texas Woman's University
- 10-Year ROI: $488,200
- Median Salary: $50,515
- Annual Tuition: $20,691
- Median Debt: $25,570
Texas Woman's University (TWU) offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition program that requires 30 credits and can be completed in less than a year. Students are provided with instruction in areas including human nutrition in disease, metabolism, eating behaviors and disorders, functional foods, advanced nutritional care, medical nutrition therapy in pediatrics, food safety,
#8
Utah State University
- 10-Year ROI: $477,700
- Median Salary: $48,432
- Annual Tuition: $10,496
- Median Debt: $16,776
Utah State University (USU) offers an online Master of Dietetics Administration degree that instructs students in nutrition program administration, advanced management in dietetics, current issues in dietetics, leadership, nutrition science, and more. Students typically take this 18-credit program typically on a part-time basis over three semesters. For consideration, applicants
#9
SUNY Oneonta
- 10-Year ROI: $473,300
- Median Salary: $48,600
- Annual Tuition: $20,340
- Median Debt: $21,711
SUNY Oneonta offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics degree. This full-time, three-semester program instructs students in applied health statistics, nutrition-focused physical assessment, advanced nutrition therapy, current issues in dietetics, nutrition in the community, and more. Throughout the course of the program, students complete 1,220 hours of supervised
#10
American University
- 10-Year ROI: $472,600
- Median Salary: $52,107
- Annual Tuition: $32,616
- Median Debt: $51,250
American University offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition Education degree that pairs nutrition science with behavior change theories, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to be effective teachers. The can be completed in 20 months and requires 24 credits of core courses, with six credits of electives. Coursework covers nutrition epidemiology and research
#11
University of Bridgeport
- 10-Year ROI: $471,900
- Median Salary: $50,231
- Annual Tuition: $15,525
- Median Debt: $36,317
The University of Bridgeport offers students an online Master of Science in Nutrition degree. This full-time degree program requires six terms of study, with two courses taken each term. Most students complete the program in 28 months. Students must take a unique capstone course, entitled The Virtual Clinic, which provides 255 hours of supervised experience credit that can be used
#12
University of North Florida
- 10-Year ROI: $466,600
- Median Salary: $48,667
- Annual Tuition: $14,391
- Median Debt: $27,625
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics online program at the University of North Florida (UNF) offers a choice of four concentrations: dietetics professional studies, global health, health care informatics, and nutritional sciences. The program seeks to create professionals who can apply advanced nutrition practices in clinical or community-based settings. At least 35
#13
Ball State University
- 10-Year ROI: $456,600
- Median Salary: $46,833
- Annual Tuition: $12,234
- Median Debt: $20,500
Ball State University’s online Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is a 36-credit program with both thesis and non-thesis options. Students in the program learn about epidemiology, statistical methods, vitamins and minerals, macronutrients, nutrition for exercise and sport, food policy, renal nutrition, pediatric and geriatric nutrition, and more. Students can choose full-
#14
Benedictine University
- 10-Year ROI: $450,500
- Median Salary: $48,823
- Annual Tuition: $10,500
- Median Debt: $41,835
Benedectine University offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition and Wellness (thesis or non-thesis track) and Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (internship and professional practice experience). Students can complete the nutrition and wellness degree in two and a half years (taking one class at a time), and nutrition and dietetics students can finish in two years
#15
University of Kansas
- 10-Year ROI: $448,500
- Median Salary: $46,589
- Annual Tuition: $10,440
- Median Debt: $25,000
The University of Kansas (UK) offers an online Master of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition degree with both a thesis and non-thesis option. The program is offered by Great Plains IDEA, a consortium of eight universities that offer joint online programs. This 36-credit program can be completed in two years, but the pacing is flexible. The curriculum includes courses in principles
#16
Texas Tech University
- 10-Year ROI: $441,400
- Median Salary: $48,901
- Annual Tuition: $13,518
- Median Debt: $23,312
The online Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Texas Tech University offers concentrations in nutrition and healthy weight, nutrition and sports, and nutrition in the life cycle. The 33-credit hour online program combines major-specific coursework with electives and has no thesis requirement. The program is structured specifically for registered dietitians or nutritionists
#17
Appalachian State University
- 10-Year ROI: $436,400
- Median Salary: $46,869
- Annual Tuition: $17,910
- Median Debt: $37,009
Appalachian State University (ASU) offers students an online Master of Science in Nutrition degree with an optional public health nutrition concentration. This 39-credit program is offered on both a full- and part-time basis. Full-time students can expect to complete the program in two years. Students take courses in the role of nutrition in overall health, how nutrition and public
#18
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- 10-Year ROI: $418,600
- Median Salary: $51,273
- Annual Tuition: $35,387
- Median Debt: $87,691
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) offers an online Master of Public Health in Nutrition and Master of Public Health/Registered Dietician degrees. These programs can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Students must complete 42 credits to graduate, including 15 credits of M.P.H. core classes covering data analysis and public health solutions. The nutrition
#19
University of Western States
- 10-Year ROI: $413,700
- Median Salary: $45,696
- Annual Tuition: $15,720
- Median Debt: $45,558
The University of Western States (UWS) offers an online Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine degree, which includes coursework in the principles of functional medicine, evidence-based nutrition, nutritional biochemistry, gastrointestinal imbalances, and sports nutrition. UWS offers flexible pacing, and the program can be completed in six to nine quarters.
#20
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- 10-Year ROI: $407,400
- Median Salary: $41,342
- Annual Tuition: $10,620
- Median Debt: $14,596
The University of Nebraska - Lincoln offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Sciences - Dietetics degree. This 36-credit program instructs students in areas including life-stage nutrition, clinical nutrition, principles of human nutrition, nutrition and wellness, micronutrients, nutritional aspects of oncology, and physical activity assessment. Students are required
#21
Logan University
- 10-Year ROI: $399,500
- Median Salary: $44,971
- Annual Tuition: $8,100
- Median Debt: $51,000
Logan University offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance degree, with concentration options including sports and fitness nutrition, integrative nutrition and practice, health education and promotion, registered dietitian, and nutritional wellness. Students are instructed in areas including lifestyle guidance, food allergies, evidence-based nutrition,
#22
Northeastern University
- 10-Year ROI: $374,900
- Median Salary: $40,647
- Annual Tuition: $17,365
- Median Debt: $34,995
Northeastern University offers an online Master of Science in Applied Nutrition with four possible concentrations: business and entrepreneurship in nutrition, nutrition and fitness, nutrition education, and obesity and nutritional health. This part-time program takes students 12-18 months to complete. Coursework covers the adoption of healthy behaviors, using nutrition to prevent
#23
Eastern Michigan University
- 10-Year ROI: $361,200
- Median Salary: $40,040
- Annual Tuition: $13,590
- Median Debt: $41,000
Eastern Michigan University (EMU) offers several online master’s degree options for students interested in nutrition: a Master of Science in Dietetics with choice of three culminating experiences or a Master of Science in Human Nutrition with the same choice of capstone options. Both programs feature courses on nutrition therapy, food and culture, and vitamins and minerals, but
#24
New York Chiropractic College
- 10-Year ROI: $309,500
- Median Salary: $33,281
- Annual Tuition: $13,212
- Median Debt: $26,562
New York Chiropractic College offers an online Master of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition degree. Students take core classes on science-based approaches to nutrition, whole foods, and nutrition counseling, and they choose from electives in sports nutrition, behavior change, or other specialized areas. This program has two tracks that take either 16 or 24 months to complete
#25
Maryland University of Integrative Health
- 10-Year ROI: $292,900
- Median Salary: $35,060
- Annual Tuition: $15,876
- Median Debt: $54,666
The Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) offers an online Master of Arts in Integrative Health Studies and a Master of Science in Nutrition of Integrative Health with an optional concentration in community nutritional education, herbal medicine, or human clinical nutrition. The M.A. takes five trimesters to complete at six credits per term, and the M.S. requires 50-58
Online Master's in Nutrition Program Overview
An online master's in nutrition equips students with a holistic understanding of how food affects well-being, including through different biological, social, and economic processes. Students learn how to develop healthy food systems and how factors — such as age, gender, and income — influence nutritional health. They take coursework in areas such as physiology, biochemistry, and food production while developing hands-on experience through a practicum, which involves spending 150-240 hours observing and working with a licensed nutritionist. Students pursuing a master's in the field of nutrition can specialize in specific niches of food science, including public health, foodservice administration, and environmental nutrition.
Students take coursework in areas such as physiology, biochemistry, and food production while developing hands-on experience through a practicum, which involves spending 150-240 hours observing and working with a licensed nutritionist.
An online master's in nutrition generally requires 30-36 credit hours and takes two years of full-time study to complete. Many schools offer accelerated and/or part-time programs, where students can finish in just one year or work at a slower pace, taking a couple of courses per semester. While distance programs in this discipline are typically offered asynchronously — allowing students to learn entirely at their own pace — some online nutrition degrees are based on a hybrid format, requiring on-campus attendance for part of the school year.
Online Master's in Nutrition Admission Requirements
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and typically must meet a minimum GPA requirement to enroll in a nutrition master's program. Many of these programs also have specific coursework prerequisites, with students often having to demonstrate a B grade or better in undergraduate chemistry, biology, and human physiology. Additionally, while some programs no longer require students to take the GRE, some still call for scores in at least the 50th percentile.
Interested in learning about similar degrees? Learn more about online master's degrees in nursing, public health, and healthcare administration.
Common Master's in Nutrition Courses
Pursuing a master's in nutrition online involves gaining valuable research skills while studying various aspects of the food system. Coursework is heavily focused on concepts in the biological sciences, including metabolic processes, micro and macronutrients, and epidemiology. Other courses focus on the societal aspects of nutrition, teaching students about food production, how consumables are marketed, and how people make dietary choices based on the information they receive. The following are common courses in a nutrition master's program.
How Much Does an Online Masters in Nutrition Cost?
In general, online degrees are more affordable than attending in-person programs because students don't have to pay for transport, on-campus housing, or relocation. Some schools even charge distance learners in-state tuition rates, which are generally lower. However, the annual tuition of an online master's in nutrition can range significantly. The cheapest nutrition degree on our list costs $8,100, while the most expensive program has annual fees of $35,387. Online students can pursue financial aid opportunities to help reduce their tuition costs.
The cheapest nutrition degree on our list costs $8,100, while the most expensive program has annual fees of $35,387.
Is an Online Master's in Nutrition Worth It?
The worth of any degree varies based on an individual's career goals, personal circumstances, and financial position. In general, however, investing in a post-baccalaureate education credential may lead to increased future earnings. A master's in nutrition may also result in a rewarding career for those interested in improving individual or communal health through food science. The following is a list of the possible pros and cons of earning a master's degree in nutrition.
Potential Advantages
If you are interested in becoming a dietician, you will benefit in the long run. Beginning in 2024, a graduate degree will be required to become a Registered Dietician, according to the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
Given the increasing importance of nutritional health, this versatile degree can prepare you for careers in multiple sectors, including government, business, education, and non-profit.
Pursuing a master's in nutrition online offers you the chance to gain an affordable graduate degree at your own pace. If you're unable to relocate or you have an otherwise busy schedule, this flexible learning format may help you meet your educational goals.
Potential Drawbacks
While an important step in becoming a professional dietician, a master's in nutrition alone may not qualify you to work in this field. With many states requiring practicing nutritionists to be certified, you may have to invest additional time and resources in the licensure process — especially if you hope to become a Registered Dietician. If you are pursuing the degree to become a professional dietician, the additional requirements needed for certification may make the degree less desirable.
An online degree requires self-discipline and motivation to finish, so it may not be ideal if you require structured learning. A remote learning format may also limit your ability to network with professors and peers.
Careers for Master's in Nutrition Graduates
A master's in nutrition fosters transferable skills and valuable knowledge, which means graduates have several career options, such as those listed below. While a master's in nutrition and dietetics is not required for these roles, it can help expand your career opportunities in the field. It is important to note that, unlike nutritionists, most professional dieticians need state licensure. For example, this is the case for Registered Dieticians or Certified Nutrition Specialists.
Which Accreditation is Best for Nutrition Degrees?
Accreditation is a process where schools and individual degree programs are evaluated for educational quality. Organizations operating at the national and regional levels assess higher education institutions based on a variety of factors, such as faculty and curricula, while professional bodies determine whether specific degree programs meet academic standards in a particular field. The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics is an industry-recognized agency that accredits master's in nutrition programs Programmatic accreditation helps provide educational excellence in this discipline, and it is also a requirement to sit for the exam to become a registered dietician nutritionist after graduation.
Programmatic accreditation helps provide educational excellence in this discipline, and it is also a requirement to sit for the exam to become a registered dietician nutritionist after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's in Nutrition Degrees
EXPERT INSIGHT
Meet Professional Nutritionist Kathleen Putnam

Kathleen Putnam has been a professional nutritionist for 20 years, and she has extensive experience in many facets of the nutrition field. She earned a Bachelor of Science in nutrition and dietetics from Oregon State University and a Master of Science in nutrition from Bastyr University. For the past 10 years, she has been at a private practice, NutritionWorks Seattle, where she counsels individuals and groups. When she is not meeting with her clients, she teaches nutrition courses at Shoreline Community College.
Why did you decide to become a nutritionist?
I was first attracted to this field because I have always been interested in my own personal nutrition. I was also drawn to the teaching aspect of nutrition as well as the constant learning. This is a dynamic subject, and the data is constantly changing. I knew I would enjoy learning and growing along with the field.
Are there common misconceptions about your profession?
Yes, people commonly think that nutritionists will be judgmental and condescending and that we will dictate what they can and cannot eat. But we don't force changes on people. We are here to help people understand why changing their habits is so difficult. Nutritionists are knowledgeable about human behavior and development, and we don't want to set people up for failure. An eating plan is only successful if it works for the individual person. We help people to make healthy choices in our modern culture while considering people's budgets, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Nutritionists are facilitators.
What is a typical day like for you?
Most days, I meet with four or five clients at my practice, Seattle NutritionWorks. Some days I also conduct a one-hour group session. When I am not meeting with clients, I update charts, communicate with therapists and physicians about clients, blog, and answer questions on my website. I make time each week to communicate and network with other professionals in the nutrition field. I also teach nutrition courses at local colleges. I currently teach two five-credit classes, although most quarters I only teach one class at a time.
What advice, or words of caution, would you give to a student who is considering studying to become a nutritionist?
If you are considering studying to become a nutritionist, you should first be aware of the time and education commitment. Often, students don't realize that a bachelor's degree in nutrition is not enough. Most nutritionist jobs will require you to be a registered dietitian. In order to become a registered dietitian, you will need to complete a yearlong internship after college, and then you will need to pass the national licensing exam. In all, it is a minimum commitment of five years, and you should understand the requirements ahead of time.
In addition to recognizing the level of commitment, I would also recommend that you research the profession and educate yourself about the salary range as well as the salary range of related fields.
Above all else, don't be discouraged by things that you hear or read; if it is your passion, you can have success. You will have plenty of opportunities, especially internationally, and your opportunities will probably increase as time goes on. If you love what you do and you have a passion for nutrition, you can make money in the field. You might have to supplement your income through teaching or writing, and you might have to be creative to get your foot in the door and gain experience. But if you want to work as a nutritionist, you will find success. There is room for you!
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By the OnlineU team | 2/8/2022