Most Popular Online Nutrition Master's Degrees
Our list of the most popular online nutrition master's degree programs only includes programs from institutionally accredited schools. It’s ranked by which schools graduated the most students with nutrition master’s degrees online.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of Alabama ranks #1, graduating 105 students from its online M.S. in Human Nutrition.
- Liberty University is our most popular online school hosting an M.S. in Nutrition, with more than 48,000 distance learners.
- Texas Tech University reports the highest median earnings among nutrition graduates at $65,536.
See our methodology for details about our list. After our ranking analysis, we spoke with a registered dietitian, who shared insights on online nutrition master's programs.
Most Popular Online Nutrition Master's Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama | 105 | $7,200 | N/A | 95% | |
| Logan University | 88 | $12,150 | $38,615 | 88% | |
| Lamar University | 71 | $10,262 | N/A | 82% | |
| University of Bridgeport | 71 | $11,725 | N/A | 82% | |
| Texas Tech University | 64 | $11,649 | $65,536 | 92% | |
| Maryland University of Integrative Health | 62 | $27,840 | $50,794 | 68% | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 62 | $9,075 | $59,855 | 93% | |
| Liberty University | 58 | $13,560 | N/A | 75% | |
| Texas Woman's University | 48 | $21,690 | $62,487 | 95% | |
| The University of Texas at Austin | 46 | $22,500 | N/A | 93% | |
| Parker University | 44 | $24,510 | N/A | 100% | |
| New York Chiropractic College | 42 | $15,156 | $47,935 | 100% | |
| American University | 42 | $40,000 | N/A | 90% | |
| University of Illinois Urbana - Champaign | 41 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $12,400 | N/A | 96% | |
| Appalachian State University | 41 | $23,729 | $63,275 | 88% |
A Closer Look at The Most Popular Online Master’s in Nutrition Degrees
On our list, the number of online nutrition master’s graduates ranges from 41 to 105. Popularity may not be the first thing that comes to mind when choosing a graduate program, but it tells a powerful story. In nutrition, where professional networks and applied learning matter as much as the coursework itself, programs with more graduates often provide stronger peer communities as well as a wider reach of alumni and possible networking opportunities.
By drawing from conferral data rather than enrollment claims, this list highlights where students are actually completing their degrees. We think this is a more reliable measure of popularity along with successful outcomes.
For students entering a field as multifaceted as nutrition, popularity can suggest stability, visibility to employers (very important to keep in mind), and a community you can leverage, even after graduation. In other words, more graduates often mean more opportunity.
Persistence and Satisfaction, Measuring Student Confidence
Completion rates and retention are often the hidden metrics behind a program’s reputation.
UT Austin is a case in point, boasting a 96% retention rate (!) and an 88% graduation rate, placing it among the top 3% nationally for success among colleges. That means nearly every student who starts stays the course — and finishes.
Other online schools show off their student success in different ways. Parker University, though smaller in scale, has a 72% graduation rate and an astonishing 100% recommendation rate, underscoring just how supported students feel.
Our survey data tells a complementary story: programs like UA (95%), Texas Woman’s University (95%), and NYCC (100%) enjoy near-universal recommendation rates. That kind of endorsement carries weight when you’re deciding whether the program is worth your investment of time and effort.
What Earnings From Nutrition Master's Alumni Tell Us
Not every program publishes graduate earnings, but when the data is available, it offers a glimpse into return on investment for a specific program (four years after graduation).
Texas Tech stands out with graduates reporting a median salary of $65,536, placing it ahead of most comparable nutrition master's programs.
Texas Woman’s University follows closely with $62,487, which is particularly meaningful given its specialization in School Nutrition.
Appalachian State sits in the same ballpark at $63,275, showing that certain concentrations and RDN-qualifying pathways can translate directly into earnings.
On the other end, Logan University graduates report $38,615, which reflects its emphasis on integrative and wellness-focused careers — sectors that may not always offer the same salary but appeal to professionals drawn to functional health practice.
In nutrition, the diversity of earnings outcomes and expectations is due to the diversity of career paths in this field, especially ones that open up at the master's level, from clinical dietetics to integrative wellness.
Unique Nutrition Master's Program Features That Set Schools Apart
Every school on the list brings something distinctive, and while we can't cover them all, we'll give you some of the highlights to start your research.
UA builds its program around three tracks — Clinical, Community, or Generalist — and even integrates competencies from the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN), which is more rarely seen.
Logan University goes the opposite direction, leaning into niche offerings like Sports & Fitness Nutrition and courses on the gut microbiome and behavior, with built-in preparation for credentials like CNS and CISSN.
For accelerated learners, Lamar University could be your best bet. Its master's program in nutrition can be finished in just 12 months, with a community-focused capstone project that doubles as a portfolio-ready deliverable. The University of Bridgeport takes a hands-on approach with a Virtual Clinic capstone, where students earn up to 255 supervised hours toward CNS eligibility.
Others distinguish themselves by emphasizing a niche nutrition focus: MUIH blends nutrition with herbal medicine, Ayurveda, and mind-body practice, while Parker University collaborates with the Institute of Functional Medicine to prepare graduates for CNS and IFM practitioner credentials.
Big universities also bring big advantages. ASU Online, with more than 17,000 online learners, provides the infrastructure of a top-2% online school and delivers courses in accelerated 7.5-week blocks.
Jessie Carpenter (MA, MS, RD, LD) on Succeeding in Master’s-Level Nutrition
Registered Dietitian
What background knowledge best supports success in a master’s-level nutrition program?
"A background knowledge of math and science is important to have as nutrition has a lot of heavy science classes, such as biochemistry and organic chemistry.
My bachelors of health and exercise science was a great foundation for going into a master's degree for dietetics. It laid a solid foundation for this field of work. If your bachelor's degree reflects a topic or specialty in the medical field, this is advantageous."
What are the most common career paths for graduates with a nutrition master’s?
"Common career paths for graduates include clinical work at a hospital, clinical work at long-term care facilities, and outpatient work, which could be with a clinic or a hospital.
Even though it is now required to have a master's degree to become a registered dietitian, the masters degree does not separate you for a job. This is a sad but hard truth. It is now becoming that you would have to have a PhD in a field.
I have two master's degrees and I am treated no differently than anyone else for the position, the pay, the benefits, etc.... I believe already having working knowledge through a thesis, capstone, or research project would set someone apart for a job more than a Masters...
An even more unfortunate point is that certifications, other than the certification for diabetic education, does not historically increase your pay at most jobs."
The sky is the limit for this field because there are so many opportunities, both conventional and unconventional.
Are there current trends in nutrition science that master’s students should be sure to explore?
"I know private practice is becoming popular for recent graduates. I would caution this being one's first job since you need a firm foundation of nutrition knowledge that is not likely to happen through school alone. You also have to be real comfortable with being alone, as most are single practitioners in private practice or hiring someone who doesn't need a lot of hand-holding.
I do believe nutrigenomics is becoming a more highlighted field of nutrition, which is awesome.
My advice is to not be opposed to exploring kidney health, diabetes, gut health, etc. that have been around a while but need more dietitians. For instance, I know that renal dietitians and long-term care dietitians are paid well and both areas are in need of dietitians."
Any advice for students thinking about the field of nutrition at the graduate level?
"The sky is the limit for this field because there are so many opportunities, both conventional and unconventional. You really can do something you love, whether it is face-to-face patient care or research, and make a good living while having work-life balance."
EXPERT TIP
"On an application and in an interview, highlight your work and relay how already having this experience puts you above other candidates. Use real life stories and measurable data to firmly confirm your knowledge and desire to work in the specialized role you're seeking."
FAQs About an Online Nutrition Master's Degree
What Is a Master's in Nutrition Degree?
A master's in nutrition online is a flexible and accessible pathway for individuals pursuing advanced knowledge in nutritional science, dietetics, and health promotion. Graduates of these programs are prepared for advanced roles in healthcare, academia, consultancy, and public policy.
An online master's in nutrition gives students a holistic understanding of how food affects health and well-being through different biological, social, and economic processes. Students learn about healthy food systems and how factors such as age, gender, and income influence nutritional health.
Graduates of master's in nutrition programs should finish their degree with the skills and expertise necessary to help a diverse array of clients optimize their health and well-being through dietary changes. Students pursuing a master's in the field of nutrition can specialize in specific niches of food science, including public health, food service administration, holistic nutrition, and environmental nutrition. There are also online public health degrees available as an alternative pathway.
Some master's programs prepare students to work in nutrition in general, while others prepare students for licensure as a Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RD or RDN). Students who want to become RDNs will need to get a master's specializing in dietetics through a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). There are also programs available for students with a bachelor's in nutrition who want to earn their master's in order to remain competitive in their field.
What Are the Requirements for an Online Master’s in Nutrition?
An online master's in nutrition generally requires 30-36 credit hours and takes two years of full-time study to complete. Some schools offer accelerated programs, where students can finish in just one year, while others allow students to enroll part time to accommodate work and other responsibilities.
Some online nutrition master's degree programs require students to complete an internship or practicum, which is especially important for students who want to qualify for the RDN credential after graduation. Dietetics students will need hands-on experience gained through a supervised didactics practicum to gain certification as an RDN. Online students can usually complete practicum requirements by working with a registered dietitian in their local area.
What Will You Learn in an Online Master’s in Nutrition?
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:
- Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism: Students taking this class learn about the biological processes through which nutrients are absorbed into the body. In addition to gaining an understanding of the nutritional value in chemical compounds, such as carbohydrates and fats, they also learn about how toxins affect us.
- Nutrition and Culture: Students enroll in this elective to better understand how social norms affect nutrition. Topics covered include the political and economic drivers of food availability in the U.S., religious beliefs about diet, and the impact of culture on community nutrition.
- Evidence-Based Nutrition: Because so much of nutritional research is funded by corporations with financial interest in what the public sees as healthy or unhealthy, understanding how to evaluate the quality of new research is critical for nutrition professionals. Students will learn to evaluate clinical research studies and data by looking at factors, such as biological variation, sample size, experimental design, analytical integrity, and bias in design and analysis, and assess how they can incorporate new research into their clinical practice.
- Nutrition and Aging: This class examines how age affects nutritional health. Students learn about changes in dietary requirements as individuals grow older as well as common threats posed by certain minerals and chemicals in older populations' food.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Nutrition?
Most students earn their master's in nutrition to become nutritionists or RDNs and work directly with nutrition clients. After a master's program, some may go on to complete further education in nutrition, such as a certificate or doctorate. Others may pursue RDN certification or another type of licensure, or they may start their career in the health and wellness industry.
Further Education
After finishing a master's in nutrition, some students go on to earn a doctorate in nutrition or a related field to advance their academic and professional expertise. Doctoral programs, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nutrition, usually involve rigorous research and allow students to dive deeply into specific areas of study within the field. Doctoral studies may focus on areas like clinical nutrition, public health, molecular nutrition, or food science. Graduates with a doctorate often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or specialized advanced roles in healthcare or the food industry.
Some students might instead choose a post-graduate certificate in another specialized area of study they didn't get to focus on during their master's program, such as sports nutrition or public health.
Nutrition Careers
A master's degree can open the door to a range of advanced career opportunities in nutrition and the wellness industry. Graduates of a nutrition program often enter the field to work directly with clients and are uniquely qualified to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities by promoting healthy eating habits and providing nutritional education.
Becoming a nutritionist or registered dietitian (RD or RDN) are two of the most common career paths for nutrition professionals with a master's degree. While the two careers are very similar in scope, the main difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian is that RDNs are required to have state licensure to practice. While RDs and RDNs have certification that allows them to work as health professionals, nutritionists are more limited in the services they are able to provide without licensure.
RDs often work in more clinical settings, providing nutrition therapy to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities. Nutritionists might work as consultants, lifestyle coaches, or nutrition writers.
Is It Hard to Earn a Master's in Nutrition?
A master's in nutrition requires a blend of social sciences and STEM classes, which means students interested in the major will likely see a mix of classes that are easier and more difficult for them, depending on their strengths. For some students, a master's in nutrition may be more difficult than other programs due to the science-heavy classes necessary to understand how nutrition impacts our bodies at the cellular level. However, other students may have more success in a nutrition program than other degrees if they are interested in the material.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Master's in Nutrition?
Earning a master's in nutrition usually takes about two years of full-time study. Students pursuing an RDN credential will also need to complete 1,000 clinical hours, either during their program or during an internship, which translates into about six months of full-time work. Some programs incorporate practicum hours into their curriculum as part of the program, while others do not include this as a requirement. Students who don't enroll in a program that includes practicum requirements will need to spend additional time getting these hours in after graduation.
Is a Master's in Nutrition Worth It?
A master's degree in nutrition is one of the most important steps toward becoming a nutritionist or dietitian as it helps future nutrition professionals qualify for certification and licensure.
A master's program in nutrition can be challenging because students must take an interdisciplinary approach to food science, deepening their knowledge in biology, sociology, and economics, to name a few. Aspiring nutritionists also often need to complete a number of practicum hours as part of their master's degree. While it is a significant investment in time and money, a master's in nutrition can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career in the industry for those who are passionate about nutrition and helping others.
The worth of any degree varies based on students' career goals, personal circumstances, and finances. In general, however, investing in graduate school may lead to . A master's in nutrition may also result in a rewarding career for those interested in improving individual or communal health through food science.
There are a few pros and cons students should consider. One of the most important things to think about is that a master's is required to become a dietitian. Another pro of earning a master's in nutrition is that it can lead to careers in multiple sectors, including government, business, education, and nonprofit. However, there are some potential downsides. The additional requirements needed for RDN certification may push some students to pursue another degree. Depending on where they live, some students may also have a hard time finding somewhere to do their practicum.
What Degree Is Best For Nutritionists?
Students who want to become nutritionists should earn their master's in nutrition. Those who want to become registered dietitians and work in a clinical setting should focus on a master's in nutrition and dietetics that meets RDN licensure requirements.
Student Reviews of Online Nutrition Programs
I have attended a wide variety of online universities, and the UWS excels at making the online environment rigorous and engaging. If you are looking for an easy ride through a program, this school is not for you. The exams are comprehensive and demanding, as is the course work. But the professors are fair, and if an extension is needed, they will grant it. The studies are all evidence-based, and directly applicable to real life situations in the health care field. This is a great school, and moderately... Read More
Review Date: 2/3/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am only on my 4th class in and I feel like I've wasted so much money in the past few classes. I knew majoring in the same thing as I did during my undergrad meant a lot of research, but I didn't expect absolutely no learning. The instructors are horrible. They barely give you any direction and then give you a low grade because you failed to follow instructions. Everyone in every single class is always complaining about how vague instructions are. They're even given the opportunity to post videos... Read More
Review Date: 4/20/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I chose their Masters Exercise /Nutrition since it was all online and I could work full time while taking 1 or 2 classes each semester. I wanted the most up to date research on exercise and nutrition --to help my profession- this degree was well worth it. There is volunteer work required for the graduation requirement which added to the learning experience.
Review Date: 10/2/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Being an online student, there are many pros and cons to my program format. I am thankful that it is convenient, easily accessible, firmly structured, and very clearly presented. I can easily communicate with my professors and classmates. The online format allows me to listen to lectures and view course materials repeatedly at my own pace withing the week-long module, allowing me to synthesize the material effectively. However, the lack of interaction with classmates and instructors can be difficult... Read More
Review Date: 3/31/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I started an online master science in food safety in the Michigan State University MSU. I recently change my job with a position close related with food regulations so this master perfectly fit my requirements to give me tools to be very successful in my new food safety career giving to me more information in areas as food law or food toxicology where I had no experience. The Master Program offered relevant material on those two topics from first semester that helped me to acquire a wide knowledge... Read More
Review Date: 12/18/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Northeastern University was the first of 10 different graduate programs that took a chance on me. My undergraduate career was not as important to me until it came time to graduate. I am so very grateful to have had this opportunity to continue my education. The online program is awesome! It fits into my schedule as well as being user friendly. The availability of the professors and interactions with other students is unbelieveable. There has been no issues and I still feel like I am getting the best... Read More
Review Date: 1/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This program is still working out its kinks, that being said, it has the potential to be amazing. Some of the professors are incredible, the classes are all incredibly organized, and the assignments are well thought out and contribute to the education. One of the biggest downfalls to this program is that it advertises to be a program which can work well with a full-time schedule, but this is not very easy to do. The workload can be very heavy. It also bears no consideration for time differences.... Read More
Review Date: 3/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Why I chose to attend Mansfield University for my graduate studies is a simple answer. I attended for my bachelors so it was familiar. However, I didnt realize how much of a great, new, challenging experience it would be. One great feature is that it is completely online. Online may not be for everyone, but the professors at Mansfield do such a good job of interacting and having you interact with peers that it feels in the classroom. From discussion boards to plenty of group projects, you get to... Read More
Review Date: 1/19/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I graduated from the online degree program. The instruction and curriculum has given me the foundation for my future career. I loved the lessons and assignments and how they were tied together with biblical principles. I agree with other reviewers that no one who applies to Liberty (a renowned Christian college), should be the least bit surprised of this. If they are uncomfortable, then they should not have applied for admission.
Review Date: 5/14/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The distance program in Nutrition, Healthspan, and Longevity (MS-NHL) offered at the University of Southern California is an accredited, coordinated program in Dietetics through the Davis School of Gerontology. After completion of the two year program (which consists of coursework and supervised practice hours with a dietitian) the student is able to take the RD exam. As the MS-NHL is only in it's third year of existence at USC, there are a handful of issues with collaboration of the combined distance... Read More
Review Date: 9/28/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love Benedictine's MSNW program. It is challenging and the faculty are intelligent.
Review Date: 9/23/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
That graduate program is offered as an online format which makes it easy for people who have serious careers and a demanding schedule to make time to further their education. The online format also makes it harder to interact on a personal level with teachers and other students. The school was very thorough in explaining how to use their systems; they provided detailed instructions for everything. All of the admissions staff was very informative and helpful if there was ever a problem.
Review Date: 5/3/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
small class sizes and easily accessible faculty (pros) no classes offered online (con for me because I commute)
Review Date: 1/3/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I commute 2 hours to get to school, and it would be nice if there was an online option for some of my courses. Overall I am very satisfied with the school. The surroundings are really nice, and my professors have been great. As a fulltime working mother I would say it was a great choice for me to pursue my graduate degree at Winthrop.
Review Date: 9/15/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love that the masters degree in human nutrition is available completely online and that it is geared towards functional medicine. Some of the faculty are great, others are a bit lack luster. I wish they would have focused on different laboratories and not just Genova Diagnostics. Overall, definitely one of the best programs of its kind.
Review Date: 5/27/2014
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
It is a smaller school, which has its benefits. I liked that I could call administrators and I would actually talk with a person to get problems resolved. They also work really well at long distance students.
Review Date: 12/1/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great program, very affordable! Faculty members are excellent.
Review Date: 10/13/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
University of Bridgeport offers online classes, weekend classes, and on-campus classes. They strive to help everyone with different and busy lifestyles. They also offer programs that are faster, ie. hybrid programs if you wish to finish school earlier. The campus is small, but nice. It overlooks the Long Island sound so it's great for studying outside near the view, or just going for a walk to relieve stress. Financial Aid is helpful, staff is helpful, and I never had any negative experiences with... Read More
Review Date: 12/23/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
Pros: Global Campus, allow transfer credit and credit by examination, availability and knowledge of advisors , technology, flat global campus tuition rate (do not pay differently for out-of-state), small class sizes, many different track options, and wide variety of students. Cons: Workload of professor (many have multiple responsibilities and therefore can sometimes be hard to reach), lack of general scholarships (many specific to certain majors), and schedule (every class is not offered every semester-availability... Read More
Review Date: 9/15/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Maryland University of Integrative Health has a wide variety of of well thought out, intentional, and holistic programs that foster a powerful learning experience. I choose MUIH because of their mission, values, and vision. MUIH seeks to foster a community of healers and learners that will have a powerful and positive impact in our world. I am pursuing a masters degree in nutrition and integrative health and what I appreciate most about this program is the wide variety of classes I will take providing... Read More
Review Date: 9/9/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes