Master’s in Nutrition Online

  1. Take our quiz
  2. Get Matched With Schools
  3. Pick Your Favorite School
On this page
Back to top
Carmen Norris
Written By - Carmen Norris

Check MarkEdited By Lauren Monser

Check MarkReview & Contribution By Dr. Mia Roberts

Pursue a Master’s in Nutrition online. Flexible, accredited programs for aspiring dietitians and nutritionists. Enhance your career with cutting-edge knowledge and practical expertise.


A nutritionist serves as a guide in navigating the intricate relationship between food and health. The online Master’s in Nutrition program equips professionals to delve deeper into this field, offering advanced training for practice or further academic pursuits. Emphasizing research and updated knowledge, graduates emerge adept in roles such as regulatory compliance managers, food scientists, hospital nutrition educators, dietitians, or professors. The master’s in nutrition online program cultivates expertise in nutrition and dietetics. It fosters a spirit of inquiry, preparing individuals to address complex dietary challenges and contribute meaningfully to the health and wellness landscape. Graduates with an online master’s in nutrition can anticipate diverse career opportunities, including roles as regulatory compliance managers, food scientists, hospital nutritional educators, dietitians or nutritionists, college professors, etc. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the estimated job growth for nutritionists or dietitians is projected to be 7 percent from 2022 to 2032 [1].

Master's in Nutrition Online

Table Of Contents

National University

PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs

National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.

PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.

SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.

Find the Best Master’s in Nutrition Online Programs

Best-Online-Masters-In-Nutrition

Many institutions across the U.S. provide a master’s degree in nutrition. A good education can make a huge difference in a student’s career after graduation. Therefore, when selecting a school, it is essential to scrutinize factors like accreditation, quality of professors, geographical location, courses offered, etc. Based on several critical components and our proprietary methodology, here is the list of the best master’s in nutrition online degrees:

Univ Address Tuition Grad Rate
North Carolina State University at Raleigh 2101 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695 $9,095 85%

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.

What to Expect from a Master’s in Nutrition Online Degree

The online master’s in nutrition program takes around two years to complete. It can be pursued online and offline, typically requiring 30-45 credit hours. The online format offers flexibility in class scheduling, allowing students to choose between asynchronous or synchronous formats. The coursework is designed to deepen understanding of human nutrition, dietetics, and physiology through core and elective courses. Accredited graduate nutrition programs can significantly advance careers in nutrition and related fields. With the high demand for nutritionists to provide prevention and treatment solutions for various health conditions, a master’s in nutrition offers diverse opportunities, including nutrition counseling, education, health consultation, food regulation, policy-making, etc.

Curriculum and Coursework

The nutrition master’s online program typically consists of a 30-credit-hour program to prepare nutrition professionals for advanced-level positions and Ph.D. studies. The curriculum emphasizes developing research skills, providing the latest information on food and nutrition, and fostering critical data analysis.

Generally, most master’s programs in nutrition require students to complete prerequisite coursework, which may vary in naming but impart similar knowledge. Common prerequisites include introductory courses in chemistry, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition across the life cycle, research in nutrition, community nutrition, nutritional biochemistry, and others. Most U.S. programs offering this degree do not mandate thesis submission. The curriculum primarily focuses on food and human body nutrition courses, though specific coursework varies among institutions. Standard nutrition courses across curricula include:

Global Population Health
This course explores the efforts of global health initiatives and populations to enhance health through services, research, and education. It adopts a population-based approach to grasp the complex interplay of factors influencing health outcomes in both local and global communities.

Health and Nutrition Ethics
This course is essential for understanding the intricate issues within nutrition, such as nutrient delivery via tubes and considerations of informed consent in dietary planning. Students will analyze the health, economic, societal, and environmental costs, along with their implications, concerning nutrition within the framework of global food systems. 

Human Physiology
This course explores the science behind the functioning of the human body in both disease and health and states. It explores various aspects of human physiology, including pathophysiology and cell physiology. Proficiency in understanding normal physiological processes and integrating theories and methods in human physiology is essential for students to comprehend several facets of nutrition.

Metabolism
This course delves into the life-sustaining chemical reactions found in various organisms, particularly humans. Students study the chemical processes within the body’s cells responsible for converting food into energy. This exploration facilitates understanding the specific proteins within the body that regulate various metabolic chemical reactions. 

Nutrition Theory
Numerous theories of nutrition aid students in comprehending the logic behind selecting or avoiding certain food items. Within this course, students explore a range of theoretical frameworks utilized in nutrition education interventions. These include health belief models, the theory of reasoned action, and others.

Some additional courses that students can find familiar across several curricula include:

  • Food Science
  • Nutrition and Human Performance
  • Public Health Nutrition Programs
  • Research Methods
  • Nutritional Biochemistry
  • Nutrition and Food Safety
  • Advanced Vitamin and Mineral Metabolism
  • Metabolism of Energy Nutrients
  • Biostatistics
  • Maternal and Infant Nutrition

To understand more about coursework in graduate degrees, refer to the guide to master’s programs.

Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained

This program helps strengthen students’ understanding of human nutrition and provides an edge. It enables students to acquire in-depth knowledge of the various pathways of significant nutrients and their role in maintaining health. Through the coursework learned here, students can utilize nutrition tools and research to make informed recommendations to their clients.

The master’s program in nutrition provides the strategic skills necessary for executing health promotion, strategic planning, nutritional counseling, and nutritional education. This degree offers students the opportunity to develop numerous skills, including the ability to:

  • advocate for the different provisions of nutrition and food services in the development of public policy
  • implement, evaluate, and plan nutritional education programs that cater to specific audiences;
  • analyze the impact of various economic and cultural issues on dietetic practices and client needs;
  • plan, design, and implement individualized and appropriate nutritional therapy for the client;
  • assess nutrition and plan diets, prepare foods, and promote the consumption of foods to meet the nutritional demands of healthy people throughout individuals life cycle;
  • evaluate the nutritional status of an individual by using proper clinical assessment methods and strategies and interpret the information on food science that is appropriate to the needs of customers;
  • explain the role of nutrients and food in preventing disease and optimizing human health

Types of Master’s Degrees Nutrition Students Can Obtain

By completing online master’s in nutrition programs, students can open doors to a wide range of career options as they gain the necessary work experiences for career advancement in the industry. Most nutrition programs prepare students for further studies like Ph.D. or job roles such as medical nutrition therapist, community nutritionist, clinical nutritionist, and more. In the U.S., there are many degrees in nutrition; however, at the graduate level, the online MS in nutrition is typically the most common. Others include a Master of Arts in Nutrition and a Business Administration in Nutrition.

Master of Science or MS in Nutrition

The Master of Science in Nutrition (MS) is designed to prepare graduates aspiring to excel in the field of human or animal nutrition. Upon program completion, graduates cultivate the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate diverse scientific information and thrive in non-profit and industry sectors.

Master of Arts of MA in Nutrition

The Master of Arts (MA) in Nutrition educates students about food and nutrition across various developmental stages. It encompasses aspects such as cultivation, distribution, production, and their implications for public health. While it enhances nutritional knowledge through advanced training, education, and research, it does not qualify students to become registered dietitian nutritionists.

Master of Business Administration of MBA in Nutrition

An MBA in nutrition is a rare degree that combines expertise in human nutrition with executive business skills, essential for advanced leadership roles in the field. Despite its high demand, only a few colleges offer this specialized program.

Areas of Specialization for Nutrition Students

Specializations focus on a particular area of study attached to a major; they entail specific coursework beyond the major requirements. Specialized degrees can yield better career benefits, along with higher salaries. Such concentrations help individuals better understand their needs, interests, and goals. Here are some specializations that online master’s degree in nutrition students can pursue:

Area of Specialization Description Career Options
Clinician NutritionThis concentration helps students learn how the body absorbs, processes, and metabolizes nutrients in food units. They also explore how dietary habits impact overall well-being. Additionally, it involves devising solutions to challenges encountered in clinical nutrition research.1. Clinical nutritionist
2. Management dietetics
3. Nutrition research scientist
4. Nutrition product manager
DietitianIn this specialization, individuals understand how to provide information and specialist services in diabetes, osteoporosis, pediatrics, renal diseases, etc. It encompasses knowledge of developing modified diets, participating in research, and educating clients and groups about healthy nutritional habits.1. Clinical dietitians
2. Community dietitians
3. Foodservice dietitians
4. Neonatal dietitians
Nutrition and PolicyThis concentration emphasizes formulating and implementing nutritional policies to address contemporary global health challenges such as diabetes, osteoporosis, etc. It covers various dietary patterns, chronic diseases, and emerging health issues.1. Work in local, state, and federal agencies
2. Health advocates and policymakers
3. Community groups
4. Schools and childcare facilities
Nutrition and ExerciseThis specialization explores the intricate relationship between diet and physical activity. Students explore how nutrition impacts exercise performance, recovery, and overall health. Topics include optimizing nutrient intake for athletic performance, designing tailored dietary plans, and promoting wellness through balanced nutrition and exercise regimes.1. Sports nutritionists
2. Fitness nutritionists
3. Metabolic specialists
4. Fitness trainers
Nutrition and Human PerformanceThis specialization focuses on optimizing human performance through tailored dietary strategies. Students delve into the science behind nutrition’s impact on physical and cognitive functions, exploring nutrient timing, supplementation, and personalized dietary plans to enhance athletic and cognitive performance across diverse populations.1. Worksite health promoter
2. Health promotion program coordinator
3. Disease prevention activist
4. Health and wellness specialist

Full-Time and Part-Time Nutrition Master’s Programs

As with most educational degrees, the time required to obtain a master’s in nutrition depends on the number of courses completed. A part-time degree typically takes more than two years, while full-time study averages about two years. The program can be completed in an accelerated format in less than two years. Here is a quick summary of the timeline to complete the master’s degree in nutrition online:

  • Full-time program: two years
  • Part-time program: over two years
  • Accelerated program: under two years

Accelerated Nutrition Master’s Programs

An online master’s in nutrition degree allows for completing a master’s degree in less time than required through a regular program. Applying to graduate programs in the accelerated format follows the same procedures as standard applications for traditional master’s degrees. Generally, accelerating a master’s program entails completing more courses in a shorter time frame. However, it can be overwhelming due to the heavier coursework load. Students often opt for accelerated programs to accommodate priorities like work and reduce program costs. They can expedite their programs by fast-tracking their degrees and transferring credits. Here are a few colleges that provide an accelerated online master in nutrition program:

Requirements for Getting into a Master’s in Nutrition Online Program

When applying for a graduate degree, applicants will encounter numerous requirements that need to be fulfilled, and documentation must be obtained accordingly. Most colleges typically require an undergraduate degree in nutrition or related fields. Since master’s programs entail advanced coursework, institutions aim to ascertain that applicants possess foundational knowledge in biology, physiology, etc. Therefore, prerequisites in those subjects may be necessary. Some of the standard admission requirements for master’s in nutrition online involve:

  • Application fee and completed form
  • Undergraduate degree from an accredited college
  • Admissions essay that describes your professional and educational aspiration
  • Test scores from the Graduate Record Exam or GRE (waived off by some schools)
  • Personal statement or statement of purpose
  • Graduate Resume highlighting any experience in nutrition or related fields.

No GRE Master’s in Nutrition Online Programs

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test widely used for graduate school admissions. To attract students, universities often waive GRE requirements using various approaches. Some institutions offer waivers based on academic achievements or professional experience. Others may waive it for applicants with high undergraduate GPAs or those applying to specific programs or departments. Additionally, some universities offer conditional admission or GRE-optional policies to broaden access. Here are a few universities that offer online nutrition master’s degree programs without needing a GRE:

How to Ensure a Master’s in Nutrition Online Program Is Accredited

Accreditation involves the initial and ongoing approval of colleges, postsecondary schools, or programs meeting standards set by recognized accrediting agencies. It ensures institutions adhere to high academic standards and provide ample student resources. Accreditation assures students of quality education, eligibility for financial aid, transferability of credits, and increased confidence in their educational investment.
The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics[6] spearheads a multifaceted process to accredit the master’s in nutrition online programs offered by colleges across the United States. Such programmatic accreditation enhances the value and quality of education provided to students.

Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:

Two nationally recognized institutes, such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation[7] and the U.S. Department of Education [8], are legitimate sources for researching accredited programs and schools. Both organizations offer comprehensive information to understand accrediting agencies and programs. For further insight into the accreditation process, refer to the guide to college accreditation.

Where to Find Free Courses for Master’s in Nutrition Online Students

Free online courses allow students to access quality education without financial barriers. They cover diverse subjects and are provided by prestigious universities and institutions worldwide. These courses allow students to explore new interests, enhance skills, and supplement traditional education. Additionally, they offer flexibility, allowing students to study at their own pace and convenience, fostering lifelong learning and professional development. Here are a few free nutrition courses students can explore:

CourseDescriptionProvided by
Gut Check: Exploring Your Microbiome[9]This course provides a broad overview of the diversity of microbes and their implications in the human body. It dives into the fundamentals of advances in microbiome research methods and understands data generation and analysis. Different development tools for analyzing complex and large biological data sets are explored here.Coursera
Diploma in Childcare and Nutrition[10]The Diploma in Childcare and Nutrition by the Academy of Skills equips caregivers, parents, and educators with essential skills for fostering child health, wellness, and development. The course covers childcare basics, emphasizing the impact of routines on healthy habits and strategies for ensuring children’s safety in diverse social settings. It also delves into childhood nutritional needs and physical activity recommendations across different developmental stages.Alison
Nutrition: Vitamins and Minerals[11]This course explores essential minerals necessary for bodily functions, serving as critical structural components of tissues. Participants delve into the roles of potassium, calcium, chloride, and sodium ions in maintaining cell composition and tissue fluid balance, gaining a comprehensive understanding of mineral requirements for optimal health.OpenLearn

Ways to Pay for a Master’s in Nutrition Online Degree

Upon admission to the online nutrition master’s program, students may face uncertainties about financing their education. Rising tuition costs and related expenses pose challenges for many applicants, hindering their ability to attend. However, various forms of financial aid are available to alleviate monetary burdens. Many financial aid options are available to assist individuals in alleviating monetary concerns. Here are a few ways students can fund their programs:

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships provide financial support to graduate students in exchange for their work in teaching, research, or administrative roles. These positions offer valuable experience and often include tuition waivers or stipends. They help students gain professional skills while pursuing advanced degrees, easing the financial burden of graduate education.

Scholarships

Scholarships

Scholarships provide educational financial aid, rewarding academic excellence, leadership, or specific talents. They alleviate the burden of tuition fees, enabling students to pursue their academic dreams. Scholarships promote equal opportunities, fostering diverse and talented individuals to excel in their chosen fields.

Grants

Grants

Grants offer financial assistance, typically based on financial need, to help cover education costs. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, making them invaluable resources for students from diverse backgrounds pursuing their academic goals.

Private Loans

Private Loans

Private loans are financial products offered by banks, credit unions, or online lenders to cover educational expenses. Unlike federal loans, private loans are not backed by the government and often have higher interest rates. They can be used to fill gaps in funding but require credit checks and may need a co-signer.

FAFSA

FAFSA

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form students complete annually to determine eligibility for financial aid from the U.S. government, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. It’s a crucial step in securing funding for higher education.

Scholarships for Master’s in Nutrition Online Degree Students

Graduate scholarships are funding opportunities for individuals enrolled in or pursuing a master’s degree from an accredited program. There are various types of scholarships, including general scholarships open to scholars from any program. Additionally, there are niche scholarships specifically for candidates pursuing degrees within particular domains. Here are a few online master’s in nutrition scholarships:

ScholarshipDescriptionAward/AmountApplication Deadline
TYLENOL Future Care Scholarship [12]TYLENOL awards annual scholarships to meritorious students who pursue careers in healthcare. It is a competitive national-level award. Since it is merit-based, applicants need to have a high cumulative GPA, consistent high academic performance, practical experience in the field, etc.$5,000-10,000August annually
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation Scholarship [13]The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation is among the organizations that offer dietetic scholarships to meritorious students at all academic levels. Individuals must enroll in an advanced degree program at a US regionally accredited university to be considered an applicant.$500-$25000May annually

Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With a Master’s in Nutrition Online Degree

After graduating with a master’s in nutrition, individuals unlock diverse career opportunities across various industries. These paths range from healthcare institutions to research organizations and corporate wellness programs. Salaries vary depending on location, experience, and specific roles. Generally, master’s graduates in nutrition can anticipate competitive compensation packages reflective of their expertise and contributions to the field. Here are a few roles online master’s in nutrition graduates can pursue:

  • Food Product Development Scientist
  • Public Health Nutritionist
  • Nutritionist
  • Regulatory Affairs Specialists
  • Nutritional Therapists
  • Health Educators
  • Health Coach
  • Nutrition Writer
  • Nutritional Aide
  • Food Service Associate

Here are a few more occupations explored:

OccupationSkills RequiredMedian Annual SalaryJob Growth (up to 2032)Job Description
Dietitians and Nutritionists [1]Analytical, listening, organizational, problem-solving, speaking, and compassion skills.$69,6807% (faster than average)Dietitians and nutritionists can help support and prevent the treatment of health conditions like autoimmune diseases, obesity, and heart diseases. They provide personalized information to clients, like how to plan meals, balance one’s blood sugar, etc.
Health Education Specialists[14]Analytical, communication, instructional, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.$62,8607% (faster than average)Health educators and community health workers provide training for different healthcare stakeholders and collect and analyze data to understand a specific community and improve services and programs. They also educate people about the significance of healthcare services.
Fitness Trainers and Instructors[15]Communication, customer service, listening, motivational, physical, and problem-solving skills.$46,48014% (much faster than average)Fitness instructors and trainers work with clients of all ages and different levels of skills. They give them information or resources on lifestyle and nutrition, monitor their progress, and adapt programs as needed.
Exercise Physiologists [16]Compassion, decision-making, detail-oriented, and interpersonal skills.$54,86010% (much faster than average)Exercise physiologists measure oxygen usage, heart rhythm, blood pressure, and other important health indicators. They develop exercise programs to improve the health of patients suffering from pulmonary or cardiovascular diseases.

Certifications and Licensing for Master’s in Nutrition Online Graduates

Certifications validate specialized skills, boosting employability and career prospects for students post-graduation. They demonstrate proficiency in a particular field, enhancing credibility and competitiveness in job markets. Employers prioritize candidates with relevant certifications, offering higher salaries and advancement opportunities. Certifications are tangible evidence of expertise, ensuring graduates stand out and excel in their chosen professions.

Certified Nutrition Coach Certification[17]

The Certified Nutrition Coach Certification equips individuals to understand how nutrition impacts personal health. Graduates learn to recognize the significance of dietary habits in fostering well-being and to apply evidence-based strategies when assisting clients. This certification empowers professionals to promote healthier lifestyles effectively.

American Fitness Professionals Association (AFPA) Certifications [18]

This certification helps professionals provide practical tips on establishing healthy eating habits. Those pursuing this certification offer strategic counseling and goal setting. Professionals also communicate and administer advanced goal-setting methods effectively.

Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition[19]

This certification demonstrates that individuals have the skills to assert themselves as a viable part of the healthcare delivery system. It involves receiving standardized education, staying updated with the history of nutrition, passing a national board exam, and undergoing the credentialing process. It reflects individuals’ passion and commitment to the holistic health industry.

Graduates with nutrition master’s degrees online can obtain licensure from their state organizations. Licensed Nutritionists[20] hold credentials from recognized organizations such as the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists, Clinical Nutrition Certification Board, and Commission on Dietetic Registration, among others.

Additional Resources for Master’s in Nutrition Online Graduates

Additional resources for Master’s students in Nutrition Degree offer opportunities to connect and enhance knowledge post-graduation. These resources include professional associations, online forums, continuing education courses, and research publications. They facilitate networking, skill refinement, and staying abreast of industry trends, empowering graduates for career advancement. Here are several organizations that graduates of a master’s degree in nutrition online can explore:

Title/ResourceDescription
National Association of Nutrition ProfessionalsThe National Association of Nutrition Professionals takes pride in natural chef and holistic nutrition schools, ensuring high academic standards and offering continuing education opportunities. Joining fosters leadership and knowledge within the holistic nutrition community, empowering members to excel in their fields.
Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsThe Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics was established during World War I to aid food conservation efforts and enhance public health. It strives to improve nutritional well-being and communicate members’ expertise for global health advancements. They aim to promote nutrition education and advocate for better public health outcomes.
American Nutrition AssociationThe American Nutrition Association provides resources for members and educates the public about nutrition. Collaborating with the Institute for Functional Medicine, they offer online courses and certification for advanced practitioners. Their initiatives aim to elevate nutritional understanding and empower professionals to deliver holistic health solutions effectively.
 American Society for Parenteral and Enteral NutritionThe American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) strives to advance clinical metabolism and nutrition science to enhance patient care. Their vision is a healthcare system where patients receive safe, high-quality nutrition care. ASPEN is dedicated to improving health outcomes through innovative research and best practices in nutrition therapy.
American Council on Science and HealthThe American Council on Science and Health offers trusted guides in navigating cultural landscapes, and providing policy and advocacy insights. They emphasize evidence-based practices for the public and policymakers, promoting professionalism in the field. Their work aims to foster informed decision-making and advance public health initiatives based on scientific rigor.

FAQs About Master’s in Nutrition Online Programs

Why should you do a master’s in nutrition degree online?

A master’s in nutrition degree online offers flexibility for working professionals, enabling them to balance education with existing commitments. It provides specialized knowledge in nutrition science, advancing career prospects in healthcare, research, and education. Online delivery facilitates learning without geographical constraints, optimizing convenience and accessibility.

 Is there any practical exposure in a master’s coursework?

 Is a master in nutrition worth it?

What is the duration of a nutrition master’s?

Is taking up a thesis necessary for master’s of nutrition?

Is it necessary to have a bachelor’s degree in nutrition to pursue a master’s?

Can a master’s program help in getting licensed as a nutritionist?

  1. Take our quiz
  2. Get Matched With Schools
  3. Pick Your Favorite School