There’s never been a better time to be part of nutrition-based initiatives and research. Whether your interests lie in the linkages between nutrition and cancer, obesity, toxicology – or one of the many other highly diverse areas of study – there is a program with your name on it.
Our understanding of the importance of nutrition in human health has increased dramatically in recent decades, and with it, the need for professionals who are well-versed in nutritional science.
A Master’s in Nutritional Science will give you the training you need to take part in this exciting, expanding field.
What kind of Nutritional Sciences degree should you get?
Do you want to become a Registered Dietician? A researcher? A community health worker? There are programs that cater to all of these career goals – and more. Program websites will help you find research emphases, field opportunities, and available areas of study.
But if you know the kind of program you’re looking for and are wondering how to make it work with your current life commitments, you might want to consider completing your degree online.
Online degrees have come a long way from their dubious beginnings. You can now earn the same credential from a highly respected institution, in a highly engaged learning format – without leaving home to do it.
If that sounds good to you, check out our ranking of the Best Online Master’s in Nutritional Sciences Degrees for more information.
How much money do people make with a Nutritional Sciences degree?
As more people recognize the importance of nutrition to overall health, demand for nutritionists and dieticians has grown considerably. Currently, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of dietitians and nutritionists will grow by 15 percent by 2026 – much faster than the average for all occupations.
In terms of salary, the Bureau of Labor Statistics cites the average salary for dieticians as $59,410 – though, of course, education and experience will drive that number up. And there are many other jobs for those with advanced training in Nutritional Sciences. Post-secondary instructors, for example, make an average of $76,000 per year.
What can you do with a degree in Nutritional Sciences?
With a Master’s in Nutritional Sciences, you’ll find many doors open to you. And the degree program you choose will largely determine your future career. A research-oriented program will prepare you for doctoral studies and a career in post-secondary teaching and research.
A practitioner-oriented program might open doors for jobs in administration in public health programs, health and wellness professions, as well as technical positions at food, pharmaceutical, and chemical laboratories.
And many programs on our ranking include the option to combine your Master’s degree with a Dietetic Internship which will prepare you to become a Registered Dietician on graduation.
What are the requirements for a degree in Nutritional Sciences?
Depending on the program emphasis, you’ll find that requirements for admission vary from program to program. However, all programs require a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. And most admissions teams will want to see your GRE scores.
Because this is a science-based degree program, there are also common prerequisite courses. If you didn’t take these as an undergraduate, many programs allow students to complete them in the first semester of study – though they won’t count as credit towards your master’s degree. Common prerequisites include:
- General Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Basic Nutrition
What are the best Nutritional Sciences degrees?
At College Choice, we know that you want a degree program that will give you the training you need. This means that the institution you choose must provide a high level of academic rigor, as well as flexibility in research areas – and cutting-edge facilities and laboratories.
But that isn’t enough for us. We want to know that you’re going to get the best value for your tuition dollar. So we look closely at indicators of high return on investment – including tuition prices and early career earnings for graduates.
Combined, these factors comprise our College Choice score, which determines the schools that make it onto our rankings. We hope this helps you find a great program!
2018 Ranking
See our rankings methodology page.
1
Tufts University
Overview
At the top of our list is Tufts University, an elite, private research university located near downtown Boston, MA. Among Tufts’ stellar graduate schools, the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy has pioneered research, and educational and community-service programs that improve the nutritional health and well-being of populations throughout the world.
Program Features
Tuft University’s Friedman School offers a Master of Nutrition Science and Policy designed for a wide range of individuals – from health professionals to recent graduates with a passion for nutrition. This is a world-class program which offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that addresses nutrition science, global and US food policy, global nutrition programs, and applied research skills. Courses include:
- Economics for Food and Nutrition Policy
- Global Food and Nutrition Policy
- Statistical Methods for Health Professionals
Notables
Tuft’s Master of Nutrition Science and Policy is comprised of ten courses – seven required courses, two electives, and a thesis. The program is designed to be manageable for working students and is delivered in a blend of online courses and intensive campus-based experiences. You’ll learn from expert, world-renowned researchers and teachers. And by studying full-time, you’ll be able to finish the program in one to two years.
2
University of California Davis
Overview
One of ten campuses in the University of California system, the University of California Davis is located on a gorgeous campus just west of Sacramento. Known as one of the “public ivies,” UC Davis is known for high caliber programs delivered through its globally-recognized professional schools and colleges.
Program Features
Graduate Studies at UC Davis offers a Master of Science in Nutritional Biology for a diverse student body from around the world. As a student, you’ll experience state-of-the-art research facilities, productive laboratories, and a progressive spirit. UC Davis offers collaborative and interdisciplinary curricula that provide students with the qualitative and quantitative skills necessary for professional research and teaching in nutritional biology. Emphases include:
- Biotechnology
- International and Community Nutrition
Notables
UC Davis’ MS in Nutritional Biology is an interdisciplinary 30-credit program with a huge amount of flexibility in course selection. Apart from the thesis requirement and one required seminar course, students work with a graduate advisor to build a study plan that best reflects their specific interests. And for those interested in a terminal degree program, there is a non-thesis option which includes 36 credits of coursework and a comprehensive exam.
3
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Overview
Originally founded in 1867 as a state-supported, land-grant institution, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a large public research university that U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top 50 national universities in the country. The school has a reputation for excellence in research, teaching, and public engagement – including exceptional interdisciplinary nutrition graduate programs.
Program Features
UIUC’s Division of Nutritional Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nutritional Science Featuring faculty from seven colleges on the Urbana and Chicago campuses, UIUC’s interdisciplinary program offers individualized study plans and extensive research opportunities. Students gain a comprehensive graduate education in nutrition that will serve as a catalyst for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary nutrition research. Courses include:
- Seminar in Foods and Nutrition
- Topics in Nutrition Research
- Biochemistry
Notables
UIUC’s MS in Nutritional Science is a 32-credit program comprised of required and elective courses and a thesis (or an oral exam if you choose the non-thesis option). As a student, you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in an Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics accredited graduate dietetic internship program. This includes specific graduate course requirements and a six-month dietetic clinical internship. UIUC also offers dual degree options for highly qualified students.
4
Purdue University
Overview
Located in West Lafayette, IN, Purdue University is a top-ranked public research university. Historically, Purdue has a STEM focus with top-ranked programs in a number of areas. The Interdepartmental Nutrition program draws on many of these disciplines, with faculty that provide a wide range of expertise and training opportunities.
Program Features
Purdue’s Department of Nutrition Science offers a Master of Science in Nutrition Science with several emphasis options. Depending on your area of interest, you’ll be accepted to Interdepartmental Nutrition Program and then train under a faculty mentor within that faculty member’s home department. You’ll choose from one of four Emphasis Groups within the INP:
- Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition
- Human and Clinical Nutrition
- Animal Health, Growth and Development
- Public Health and Education
Notables
Purdue University’s MS in Nutrition Science is a 30-credit program that offers a high degree of latitude when it comes to course selection. You’ll need to complete core content and skill-building requirements, but you’ll work with your faculty advisor to build a curriculum that fits your own professional goals. And with Purdue’s highly competitive tuition, this program represents great value for your tuition dollar.
5
The Ohio State University
Overview
Located in the state capital of Columbus, The Ohio State University is a nationally-ranked public research university and one of the largest, by student population, in the country. With internationally-renowned faculty, Ohio State’s College of Education Human Ecology (which houses the Department of Human Nutrition) ranks among the best in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
Ohio State’s Department of Human Nutrition offers a research-focused Master of Science in Human Nutrition. Students learn the science of nutrition through courses in disciplines across the university, gaining foundational knowledge of the scientific relationships that exist between diet, health and disease, and how nutritional research can set public policy. You’ll study numerous areas of nutrition including:
- Food Science
- Macronutrient and Micronutrient Metabolism
- Global Nutrition
- Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Nutrition Counseling.
Notables
Ohio State’s MS in Human Nutrition is a 30-credit program comprised of five core courses, three research courses, electives, and a thesis. As a student, you’ll have abundant opportunities for in-the-field training, with businesses regularly seeking students for internships throughout the school year. And you’ll work alongside researchers specializing in nutrition and related health disciplines, solving diverse issues that affect diets and patient well-being.
6
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Overview
Located in Minnesota’s beautiful Twin Cities, the University of Minnesota is a highly ranked national public research university. The school offers stellar graduate programs through a number of acclaimed graduate colleges. The Department of Food Science and Nutrition collaborates with research centers throughout UMN to focus on the relationship between nutrition and health.
Program Features
UMN’s Department of Food Science and Nutrition offers a Master of Science in Nutrition for individuals from a variety of backgrounds. Taught by expert teachers and scholars in the field, the program prepares students to thrive in a variety of positions – from research and teaching at the university level to nutrition-related positions in government, healthcare facilities, and commodity organizations. Courses include:
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Nutritional Physiology
- Nutrition and Genetics
Notables
UMN’s MS in Nutrition is a 30-credit program comprised of four core courses, electives, and a thesis or culminating research project. You’ll also be able to gain valuable work experience through an ACEND-approved UMN Dietetic Internship. And all master’s students obtain teaching experience at the university level as well. Also, by completing additional graduate credits, you’ll have the opportunity to become a Registered Dietitian.
7
University of Connecticut
Overview
A land-grant public research university located in Storrs, CT, the University of Connecticut is a nationally ranked institution with a long history of providing high-quality programs to Connecticut students. The school offers high-caliber undergraduate and graduate programs in Nutrition through its highly regarded Department of Nutritional Sciences.
Program Features
The University of Connecticut offers a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences which takes an interdisciplinary approach to nutrition. The program is supported by other departments throughout the university and benefits from collaborative arrangements with other institutions. Program course work develops an advanced level of knowledge in nutrition and related sciences – as well as research competencies. Students choose from one of three emphasis areas:
- Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition
- Human Nutrition and Metabolism
- Community Nutrition
Notables
The University of Connecticut’s MS in Nutrition Sciences is a 30-credit program which includes a thesis option and a non-thesis option for those students who want to complete a terminal degree in Nutrition. And research projects span a wide range of topics, so you’ll have the chance to delve deeply into an area of interest to you – while enjoying the university’s state-of-the-art facilities.
8
University of Florida
Overview
Located just outside downtown Gainesville, the University of Florida is a prominent public research university and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The school’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences has developed an international reputation for its accomplishments in teaching, research, and extension.
Program Features
UF’s Department of Food Science and Nutrition offers a Master of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition. With approximately thirty full-time faculty teaching around 100 students in the program, you’ll be assured a close relationship with your instructors. You’ll take part in a rich academic environment – and you’ll be able to tailor the degree to your own career aspirations through areas of emphasis:
- Human Nutrition
- Molecular and Cellular Nutrition and Metabolomics
- Food Microbiology
- Food Processing
- Food Technology
Notables
UF’s MS in Food Science and Human Nutrition is a 30-credit program comprised of 24 course credits and six research credits. With only four required courses, students have a broad scope in their course selection, within the limits of their emphasis area. At UF, you’ll also have the chance to broaden your program by selecting from courses in topics like biochemistry, medical sciences, animal science, or epidemiology (just to name a few).
9
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Overview
Located in the chilly midwestern city of Madison, WI, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a major public research university that U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top 50 national universities in the country. With a particular strength in biological sciences, UW-Madison’s Department of Nutritional Sciences has a reputation for outstanding programs in diet and nutrition.
Program Features
UW-Madison’s Department of Nutritional Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences with two possible areas of emphasis. As a student, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of nutrition principles as they apply to both humans and animals. And UW-Madison has one of the largest biological science research communities in the world, which will support you throughout this multidisciplinary program. The areas of emphasis are:
- Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition
- Human Nutrition
Notables
UW-Madison’s MS in Nutritional Sciences is a 30-credit program with few required courses. You’ll be able to create a degree program within your emphasis area which includes a research-based thesis. All students are also encouraged to gain teaching experience through assistantships. And if you’re interested in completing a degree in Nutrition, but can’t move to Wisconsin to do so, UW-Madison also offers an online MS in Clinical Nutrition.
10
Rutgers University
Overview
The oldest campus of Rutgers University, Rutgers-New Brunswick is a public research university that U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top 75 national universities in the country. The school has a history extending back to the colonial period, but today offers cutting-edge graduate programs which include high-ranking graduate programs in Nutritional Science.
Program Features
Rutgers University’s School of Environmental and Biological Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences that provides both a broad, multidisciplinary understanding of the field of nutrition as well as specialized knowledge in a chosen area of research. Research mentorships are conducted by distinguished faculty from both Rutgers and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Two emphasis areas are offered:
- Nutritional Biochemistry and Physiology
- Applied and Community Nutrition
Notables
Rutger’s MS in Nutritional Science is a 30-credit program in which you’ll take coursework in nutritional sciences and related topics while conducting a research project culminating in a final thesis or dissertation. The research emphasis of Rutgers’ program makes it ideal for students who intend to obtain a PhD in nutritional sciences or related fields, and also those seeking additional basic knowledge for jobs in research or teaching.
11
North Carolina State University
Overview
Located in Raleigh, NC, North Carolina State University is a public research university that ranks among the top 100 national universities in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report. Known for their outstanding graduate programs, NC State’s Department of Food, Bioprocessing & Nutrition Sciences stands out for their commitment to both research and outreach.
Program Features
NC State offers an interdepartmental Master of Science in Nutrition that will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. For those wanting to pursue a career in research or a PhD program, the school provides a thesis option. The non-thesis option expands knowledge in the science of nutrition that will prepare you for jobs in public health, health and wellness promotion firms and departments, and food and pharmaceutical companies. Emphasis areas include:
- Feed Science
- Human Nutrition, Food and Bioprocessing
- Professional Science – Feed Science
Notables
NC State’s MS in Nutrition is a 30-36-credit program, depending on whether you choose the thesis or non-thesis option. Both tracks offer a high degree of flexibility in course selection, with few course requirements. And if you’re looking for a degree you can complete at least partially online, many courses are available both face-to-face and online. The program takes between 18 and 24 months to complete full-time.
12
Texas A&M University
Overview
A research powerhouse, Texas A&M University has one of the top ten system endowments in the nation and is home to one of the United States’ largest Colleges of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Regarded as a leader in many disciplines, the college is constantly working to improve public health, grow the economy, and feed the world.
Program Features
Texas A&M’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nutrition that offers a comprehensive understanding of the science of nutrition. With an emphasis in the broad fields of basic and applied animal and human nutrition, students perform research in a wide variety of areas under the guidance of faculty from a number of diverse departments. Courses include:
- Nutrition
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Statistics
Notables
Texas A&M’s MS in Nutrition is a 32-credit program of lecture, seminar, and research courses as well as a required thesis. If you have a particular interest in dietetics, the university also offers a combined MS in Nutrition/Dietetic Internship, which is an accredited program of the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education. This includes a 9-month supervised practice component (which takes place once your coursework is completed) in one of several clinical specialties.
13
University of Georgia
Overview
Located in Athens, GA, the University of Georgia is a historic, public research university that U.S. News and World Report ranks at #54 nationally. The school is home to both renowned graduate programs and vibrant student life, earning it the designation of a “public ivy.” And UGA is also a leader in Foods and Nutrition, with high caliber programs for highly qualified students.
Program Features
UGA’s Department of Foods and Nutrition offers a Master of Science in Foods and Nutrition. Featuring a faculty with diverse research interests, UGA offers Nutrition students a broad spectrum of topics to delve into. With particular strengths in clinical, basic science, and consumer foods, UGA also offers expertise in sports nutrition – a rarity among graduate Nutrition programs. You’ll also benefit from cutting-edge facilities and equipment. Courses include:
- Micronutrient Nutrition
- Advanced Macronutrients
- Special Topics in Foods and Nutrition
Notables
UGA’s MS in Foods and Nutrition is a 30-credit program with both a thesis or non-thesis track. Both programs offer a large number of electives to tailor your degree. The non-thesis track is intended for students not wishing to pursue a doctoral degree, and it will prepare you for clinical, community, industry, government, and basic science careers. UGA also offers an MS/Dietetic Internship that will qualify you to take the exam to become a registered dietitian.
14
Case Western Reserve University
Overview
Located in Cleveland, OH, Case Western Reserve University is a medium-sized private university that U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top 50 national universities in the country. Known for its world-class research, CWRU’s School of Medicine is home to a highly-regarded Department of Nutrition that provides education and research that bridges the gap between medicine and public health.
Program Features
If you want a public health slant to your Nutrition program, CWRU’s Department of Nutrition offers a Master of Science in Public Health Nutrition that prepares students for employment in public health or community agencies. The program is equally appropriate for recent graduates of a Bachelor’s in Nutrition program as for dietitians, nurses, and physicians wanting to enhance their skills and credentials. Courses include:
- Introduction to Public Health Nutrition
- Nutritional Epidemiology
- Advanced Human Nutrition
Notables
CWRU’s MS in Public Health Nutrition is a 16-month, 31-credit program comprised of six required courses and several electives. For those interested in becoming Registered Dieticians, CWRU offers a combined Dietetic Internship/Master’s program. And for those wanting extra credentials, with the addition of extra coursework, there is also the option to complete a specialty certificate in either Maternal and Child Nutrition or Gerontology.
15
University of Texas at Austin
Overview
The flagship institution of the University of Texas system, the University of Texas at Austin is a public research university with one of the largest campus enrollments in the country. This allows for great educational diversity, and UT Austin has an abundance of programs that rank among the best in the country – not to mention research expenditures that exceed $550 million per year.
Program Features
The School of Human Ecology at UT-Austin offers a science-based, human-focused Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences that provides advanced training for dieticians and other health and wellness professionals. The curriculum includes biochemical, molecular-biological, and clinical components. You’ll be prepared for a wide range of careers in teaching, administration in public health programs, and technical positions at food, pharmaceutical, and chemical laboratories. Courses include:
- Research Problems in Nutritional Sciences
- Advances in Nutrition: Macronutrients
- Advances in Nutrition: Vitamins and Minerals
Notables
UT-Austin’s MS in Nutritional Sciences is a 30-33 credit program depending on whether you choose the thesis or the non-thesis option. The program is offered both on campus and 100 percent online. And if you want to become a dietician, you can also apply to the Coordinated Program in Dietetics, which meets the requirements for registration eligibility of the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association.
16
University of Washington
Overview
Located in the rainy seaport city of Seattle, WA, the University of Washington is a public research university that U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top public schools in the US. The school is home to many prestigious graduate programs, and the School of Public Health is home to more than 40 centers and institutes that bring together faculty from throughout the School to collaborate and do research across disciplines.
Program Features
UW’s School of Public Health offers an interdisciplinary Master of Public Health in Nutritional Sciences. As a student in UW’s program, you’ll learn from nationally-recognized faculty with networks spanning a wide range of disciplines. And on graduation you’ll be ready to participate in the design and management of population-based community nutrition interventions. Coursework includes:
- Nutritional Sciences
- Epidemiology
- Biostatistics
Notables
UW’s MPH in Nutritional Sciences is a 63-quarter-credit program which includes a practicum and field experiences. Recent graduates from UW’s program have pursued careers in public health nutrition, clinical management, research, teaching, clinical dietetics, and in administration of local or state nutrition programs. And UW keeps graduate tuition at a highly competitive rate, so the degree won’t break your bank.
17
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Overview
Located in the heart of Alabama’s largest city, the University of Alabama at Birmingham is a nationally-ranked public research university. Home to the UAB Health System – one of the largest academic medical centers in the country – students take their learning out of the classroom to participate in multi-professional research initiatives in basic, clinical, and translational research.
Program Features
UAB’s Department of Nutrition Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nutrition Sciences with multiple track options. Within this highly flexible degree program, you’ll be able to choose a program that fits your career goals – whether that is pursuing a career in research, general nutrition education, dietician education – or to become a Registered Dietician. Track options include:
- Dietician Education Program
- Clinical Track – Dietetic Internship
- Clinical Track – Prior Learning Option
- Research Track
- Lifestyle Management & Disease Prevention Track
Notables
UAB’s MS in Nutrition Sciences program requirements vary widely depending on the track option you choose. With the exception of the Research track, all tracks have online options combined with supervised field experiences in Birmingham. All programs are taught by highly experienced, credentialed faculty, and are designed to be completed in one to two years of full time study.
18
Michigan State University
Overview
Situated in East Lansing, MI, Michigan State University is a large public research university that U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top 100 national universities in the country. MSU’s graduate programs frequently rank among the best in the nation—and students in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition enjoy updated research and educational facilities.
Program Features
MSU’s Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition offers a Master of Science in Human Nutrition program that provides a strong biochemical research base combined with practical community-based applications. This is a well integrated program that allows faculty and students to take part in transdisciplinary development opportunities. Courses include:
- Advanced Biochemical Nutrition
- Advanced Vitamins and Minerals
- Research Methods in Human Nutrition
Notables
MSU’s MS in Human Nutrition is a 30-credit program that includes research and coursework in advanced nutrition and statistics. You’ll also be able to take coursework in areas like anthropology, pathology, and genetics. And if you want to prepare for the national registration examination for dietitians, you can also choose to complete the combined master’s degree and dietetic internship.
19
University of Arizona
Overview
The first university to be established in the Arizona territory, the University of Arizona is a large, public research university located in the city of Tucson, AZ. Among the school’s highly-regarded academic departments, UA’s Department of Nutritional Sciences advances the study of nutrition through cutting-edge research, outstanding academic programs, cooperative extension programs, and continuing professional education.
Program Features
UA’s Department of Nutritional Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences for individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds. Students take part in graduate research projects that highlight links between basic, translational, and applied nutrition research. Active research programs in the department include investigations in diabetes, obesity, immunity, and musculoskeletal and cardiovascular diseases. And UA’s two signature research areas in the field of nutrition are:
- Bioactive Compounds, Nutrients and Lifestyle: Relationships to Cancer
- Metabolic and Behavior Factors Influencing Body Composition
Notables
UA’s MS in Nutritional Sciences is a 30-credit program which includes six required courses, electives, and a thesis. This program has an outstanding reputation for conducting scientific research that is interdisciplinary and collaborative in nature across many disciplines and departments. With a variety of study areas to choose from, you’ll be able to select a mentor from among 27 faculty members representing nine disciplines.
20
University of Kentucky
Overview
Set amongst the rolling hills and bluegrass culture of Lexington, KY, the University of Kentucky is a public research university and the highest ranked research university in the state, according to U.S. News and World Report. The College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment provides students with excellent teaching, transformative research, and relevant service.
Program Features
UK’s Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition offers a Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Systems which provides advanced nutrition education, research, and service experiences. This is a multidisciplinary program that emphasizes the impacts of food systems and diet on human health – you’ll apply practical and critical thinking skills to address nutrition-related problems in an evolving global society. Core courses include:
- Research Methods in Human Environmental Sciences
- Advanced Community Program Development
- Food Systems and Society
Notables
UK’s MS in Nutrition and Food Systems is a 30-36 credit program depending on whether you choose the thesis option (30 credit) or the coursework-only option (36 credit). The curriculum emphasizes contemporary nutrition topics – such as food systems, research methods and health behavior theories, as well as community programming and intervention development, among others. You’ll also be able to choose to complete dietetics credentialing to become a registered dietician.