Edited By Lauren Monser
Review & Contribution By Dr. Mia Roberts
Earn an Online Nutrition Degree to acquire in-depth knowledge in nutrition science, dietetics, and wellness, paving the way for a successful career in health and nutrition.
Nutrition is a physiological and biochemical process through which organisms utilize food to sustain life. In the study of nutrition, individuals explore human nutrition and how organisms obtain essential nutrients by consuming inorganic and organic matter, energy absorption, and other related processes. An online nutrition degree equips students with knowledge about food and nutritional health, human nutrition, quantity food production and service, nutritional biochemistry, life cycle nutrition, and related areas. These programs offered by nutrition degree schools aim to ensure comprehension of healthy dietary practices for clients, thereby reducing their risk of malnutrition and diseases. Graduates with a bachelor’s nutrition degree online have various career opportunities, including roles such as management nutritionist, registered dietitian, sports nutritionist, public health or community nutritionist, clinical nutritionist, and more. The employment of nutritionists and dietitians is projected to grow by about 7 percent[1] from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for other occupations.
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Find the Best Online Nutrition Degree Program
Choosing the best program from the many nutrition degrees offered across institutions can be daunting. Several general factors should be considered when assessing whether an undergraduate program is the right fit for an individual. These include the quality of faculty, the caliber of lab and research facilities, the program’s reputation and accreditation status, cost of living, geographic location, and other essential criteria. The teams at FBD have evaluated several undergraduate programs using a proprietary methodology and prepared a list of schools offering the best online nutrition degrees.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| The University of Arizona | 401 E University Blvd, Tucson, Arizona 85721 | $12,718 | 66% |
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 an Online Nutrition Degree
The bachelor’s nutrition online degree focuses on developing students’ foundational knowledge and skills in broad areas of nutrition science and healthcare. This program suits individuals interested in pursuing further education in pharmacy, medical, dental, or working in nutrition and dietetics-related fields. It typically consists of 120 to 140 credits and requires an average of four years to complete the program requirements. Colleges offer this degree through various learning modes, including on-campus, off-campus, and hybrid formats. Online programs that are readily available and can be taken in both asynchronous and synchronous formats. The coursework emphasizes concepts, research methods, and values that prepare graduates for career opportunities in healthcare and nutrition science-related organizations.
Curriculum and Coursework
Nutrition degrees typically entail numerous general education and core classes. Some core classes students need to take include applied nutrition, nutrition across the lifespan, food safety, nutrition planning and management, nutritional counseling, nutrition for special populations, and more. These classes focus on building content knowledge and various skills in the broad area of healthcare and nutrition.
Most institutions also mandate students to complete internships and capstone projects to enhance their professional skills. There are elective credits ranging from 30 to 65 credits, depending on the school. The program curriculum emphasizes topics that teach concepts, research methods, and theory applications in diverse career opportunities. Here are some standard courses found in a nutrition degree online:
Nutrition
This course teaches about different foods and eating habits that meet humans’ needs for proper development and health. It gives a foundation to understand the other courses in the curriculum. Students also learn about nutrition requirements in varied conditions like child and maternal health, safer pregnancy, lower risk of non-communicable diseases, a more robust immune system, etc.
Food Science
This course covers the basic and applied science of food and understands its scope that overlaps with nutritional and agricultural science, leading to an understanding of different scientific aspects of food safety. Students learn about food processes and methods for improving food products. It also explains the principles of developing other products to enhance consumers’ lives.
Dietary Patterns
This course deals with the knowledge of proportions, quantities, combinations, or a variety of different foods and nutrients in diets, drinks, and the frequency of consumption. Students also analyze the individual, social, and demographic factors influencing different dietary patterns and make choices about various foods that may harm or benefit one’s health over time.
Human Nutrition
This course focuses on providing essential nutrients in our food needed to support good health and human life. Students also analyze how poor nutrition can lead to chronic problems linked to food security, poverty, inadequate understanding of nutritional requirements, and much more. Additionally, they study the essentials of human nutrition, such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, water, minerals, and vitamins.
Nutrition Research
This course aims to help students understand nutrition and life science research on health and diet. They explore various evidence regarding how eating behavior can influence health and are educated on the challenges of nutrition-related issues and how to promote an active lifestyle.
Additional standard courses commonly found across nutrition degree online programs include:
- General Organic and Biological Chemistry
- Personal Nutrition
- Explore Dietetics and Nutrition
- Food and Culture
- Introduction to Psychology
- Survey of Biochemistry
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Community Nutrition
- Lifecycle Nutrition
- Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Introduction to Epidemiology
- Ethics in Healthcare
- Research Design and Topics in Nutrition
- Pharmacology for Health Science
- Nutrition in Critical Care
For more detailed information, refer to the guide to bachelor’s programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
This program assists students in exploring a range of subjects, including nutrition, values, research methods, concepts, and applications. The curriculum also equips individuals for industry-specific certification exams and advanced degrees such as master’s. By integrating laboratory work, internships, and field experiences with the coursework, students develop foundational knowledge and skills in nutrition.
This program also facilitates the acquisition of knowledge and skills necessary for becoming a respected professional in nutrition. It fosters the development of various competencies, including the student’s ability to:
- explore various principles and pharmacology of nutrition and how different dietary choices contribute towards a healthier lifestyle;
- demonstrate an understanding of absorption, metabolism, and digestion of foods and nutrition needed at a different stage of development;
- demonstrate administrative, professional, and ethical skills and work in leadership positions throughout the healthcare field;
- demonstrate nutritional knowledge that can be applied to real-world scenarios and come up with unique solutions to challenges;
- evaluate individuals’ nutritional state by making use of appropriate strategies of clinical assess and interpret information on food science to meet consumer needs;
- assess diets, promote the consumption of foods, and prepare foods to meet the nutritional needs of people who are healthy throughout the life cycle;
- analyze the impact of economic and cultural issues on dietetic practice and client needs.
Types of Degrees Nutrition Students Can Obtain
Nutrition degree programs offered by schools aim to ensure a healthy diet for clients, reducing their risk of malnutrition or diseases. The program is closely aligned with life sciences and is available to students pursuing either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BSc). Both online nutrition degrees educate candidates on enhancing human health and well-being to achieve personal or professional objectives.
Bachelor of Arts of BA in Nutrition
This degree offers a study of nutrition science in a format that is comparably more flexible than a Bachelor of Science degree. It is suitable for those interested in completing a dual-degree program. Students may explore nutrition, food science, dietary patterns, human nutrition, and other significant courses within this program.
Bachelor of Science or BSc in Nutrition
Students can explore various values, research methods, concepts, and applications in nutrition and dietetics through this degree. It is tailored to equip students for entry into the field of health and related sciences, enabling them to significantly enhance the lives and well-being of others through their acquired skills and knowledge.
Areas of Specialization for Nutrition Students
The purpose of a bachelor’s degree is to provide foundational education that offers individuals a broad understanding of their subject area. On the other hand, specializations offer a deeper dive into specific aspects of the field, allowing students to tailor their education to their needs, goals, and interests. They enable individuals to determine whether a particular area aligns with their professional aspirations. While there aren’t typically numerous specializations in the field of nutrition, some concentrations that are available within a degree in nutrition online include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Clinician Nutrition | This specialization involves studying the effects of nutrients and dietary interventions on one or more health-related or biological endpoints in humans. Students delve into how nutrients from food are metabolized, utilized, and stored by the human body. | Clinical nutritionist Management dietetics Nutrition research scientist Nutrition product manager |
| Dietitian | In this concentration, students learn how to deliver medical nutrition interventions and acquire, distribute, and safely prepare nutritious foods for clients, groups, and communities. They also explore various dietary modifications aimed at addressing medical challenges. | Clinical dietitians Community dietitians Food service dietitians Neonatal dietitians |
| Nutrition and Policy | This specialization focuses on the different US nutrition policies that address problems of deficiencies and under-consumption in the domain of nutrition. Students may be required to come up with solutions to worldwide issues. | Work in local, state, and federal agencies Health advocates and policymakers Community groups Schools and childcare facilities |
| Nutrition and Exercise | This specialization deepens understanding of the relationship between exercise and nutrition and their combined impact on health. It includes learning about the long-term effects of exercise, weight management, muscle and bone strengthening, and other related topics. | Sports nutritionists Fitness nutritionists Metabolic specialists Fitness trainers |
| Nutrition and Human Performance | This specialization integrates sports science and nutrition, providing a comprehensive foundation in biological science, exercise science, and nutrition. Students gain insight into how nutrients fuel the body and influence cognitive function, enabling them to explore the relationship between nutrition and disease. | Worksite health promoter Health promotion program coordinator Disease prevention activist Health and wellness specialist |
Full-Time and Part-Time Nutrition Programs
The nutrition degrees online can be completed in four to six years, depending on the chosen learning mode, and consist of 120-140 credit hours. The course can be completed full-time in four years; however, if a part-time option, completion may take more than four to six years. Prospective undergraduates can also complete the program online, offline, or in hybrid modes. If pursuing an online mode of education, colleges may provide either asynchronous or synchronous learning options.
Accelerated Nutrition Programs
Accelerated programs allow students to complete the undergraduate degree requirements in less than four years. This option is generally chosen by those who want to finish their coursework in a quick format. It is popular amongst students making a career change, having a full-time job, or other personal commitments. Individuals can accelerate their degree by taking up an integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree and even completing more credits in a shorter time.
Here are a few colleges that offer accelerated nutrition online degrees
Requirements for Getting into an Online Nutrition Degree Program
Typically, most institutions require students to earn credits in English, social science, natural science, fine arts, and more. Those who have graduated from high school or have equivalent degrees will have already met these requirements. Students must complete such requirements within their regular curriculum if they don’t meet such needs. Each college handles its admissions requirements differently. The conditions might change depending on whether a student is a first-year or transfer student. Some of the standard online nutrition degree admission requirements include:
- Application fee and form
- High school diploma or equivalent General Education Development test
- Official transcripts from previous degrees
- Minimum GPA of 2.0-3.0 or more is generally required
- Personal state highlighting why a student wants to enroll in the program at that particular institute
- ACT and SAT scores
How to Ensure an Online Nutrition Program Is Accredited
Accreditation encourages institutions to fulfill and maintain high standards, thereby increasing the confidence and trust of students and the employers of their organizations. It ensures eligibility for federal financial aid, facilitates legitimate professional licensure, and allows for the transfer of credits to another school.
Some organizations provide programmatic accreditation; in nutrition, the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics[4] accredits educational institutions offering online nutrition degree programs, thereby safeguarding the interests of both students and the public. Individuals can also consult nationally recognized organizations like the Council for Higher Education Accreditation[5], and the U.S. Department of Education[6] to identify which authorized accrediting agencies have accredited the institutions and programs they are interested in studying.
Apart from national agencies, six regionally recognized organizations accredit programs, which are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To learn more about the accreditation process, individuals can refer to the guide to college accreditation.
Where to Find Free Courses for Online Nutrition Degree Students
Free online courses offer an accessible way for nutrition bachelor’s students to expand their knowledge and stay current in the diverse field of nutrition. Numerous platforms host these courses, providing flexibility and convenience. It’s essential for students to carefully select courses that align with their learning objectives and interests. Here are a few free nutrition courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| ntroduction to Food and Health[7] | This free course provides insights into the intersection of nutrition and well-being. Covering fundamental concepts in food science and dietary habits, it equips learners with valuable knowledge to make informed choices about their health. This course offers a solid foundation for individuals interested in nutrition and its impact on overall wellness. | Coursera |
| Nutrition and Health: Macronutrients and Overnutrition[8] | This course introduces the chemistry behind macronutrients such as fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Students learn about the absorption, metabolism, and storage of macronutrients for energy, understanding how different carbohydrates, fats, and proteins influence human health. | edx |
| Starter Nutrition Course[9] | This course covers various topics in nutrition, including components of a balanced diet, superfoods, energy, food labels, and more. The curriculum benefits individuals at an introductory level of nutrition study who wish to assess their knowledge through quizzes, resources, and other tools provided. | The Health Science Academy |
Ways to Pay for an Online Nutrition Degree
The U.S. tuition cost has steeply risen in recent years, leaving students with the essential question of how to pay for college. Besides part-time and full-time jobs, students need to explore additional options to fund their education. Those pursuing an online nutrition degree can explore various financial aid options, including:
Scholarships
Scholarships offer invaluable financial aid for students pursuing education. These merit-based awards recognize academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, and diverse talents. They alleviate the burden of tuition fees, enabling students to focus on their studies and pursue their academic and career aspirations without financial constraints.
Grants
Grants for students provide crucial financial support for education. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, making them highly desirable. These funds come from various sources, including government agencies, private organizations, and universities, aiming to promote access to education and alleviate financial barriers for students from diverse backgrounds.
Federal Loans
Federal loans are financial aid provided by the government to students to cover educational expenses. These loans have fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options, making them more accessible and affordable than private loans. They include Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Direct PLUS Loans, catering to different financial needs.
Private Loans
When federal aid and scholarships fall short, private loans are an alternative student funding option. Offered by banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions, they cover educational expenses such as tuition, books, and living costs. However, they often require a credit check and may have higher interest rates than federal loans.
FAFSA
Federal Student Aid or FAFSA is a form that prospective or current college students in the U.S. complete. The applicant determines their eligibility by filling out this form and providing their personal and family information.
For further details, please refer to the financial aid guide.
Scholarships for Online Nutrition Degree Students
As the demand for nutritionists grows amid increasing health concerns, online bachelor’s in nutrition programs become popular. Prospective students often worry about tuition costs, but scholarships offer financial relief. These awards alleviate financial burdens, making pursuing an online nutrition degree more accessible and feasible for aspiring professionals. Here are a few online nutrition degree scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naugatuck Valley Medical Scholarship Fund[10] | This medical scholarship fund is provided to seniors graduating from high school and planning to major in biomedical and medical fields. They must have a GPA of 3.5 and good ACT and SAT scores. Students also must confirm their admission into a medically or science-oriented program. | April annually | Varies |
| Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation Scholarship[11] | This foundation offers scholarships and stipends for meeting educational needs for pursuing education at undergraduate or advanced levels in food nutrition or dietetics-related areas. One must prove their eligibility by providing documents of their admission into accredited programs. | $500 to $25,000 | May annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Nutrition Degree
Graduating with a bachelor’s in nutrition opens diverse career paths with competitive salaries. Professionals may find opportunities in healthcare, education, research, or food industries. Salaries vary based on factors like location and experience but generally offer stability and growth potential. Graduates can embark on fulfilling careers contributing to public health and wellness initiatives. Some of the typical jobs available with online nutrition degrees include:
- Renal dietician
- Registered dietician nutritionist
- Oncology dietitian
- Clinical dietician
- Nutrition and dietetic technician
- Food product development scientist
- Nutritional therapist
Here are a few more occupations explored:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dietitians and Nutritionists [1] | Analytical, listening, organizational, problem-solving, speaking, and compassion skills. | $69,680 | 7% (faster than average) | The role of a clinical dietitian involves assessing patients’ nutritional needs and developing personalized meal plans to promote health and manage medical conditions. They collaborate with healthcare teams, educate patients on nutrition, and monitor progress. Clinical dietitians play a vital role in improving patient outcomes and overall well-being. |
| Health Education Specialists[12] | Analytical, communication, instructional, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. | $62,860 | 7% (faster than average) | These professionals assess the health needs of communities and individuals and assist them in accessing health services. They develop programs, events, and materials to educate clients about health-related topics such as managing conditions and evaluating program effectiveness.. |
Fitness Trainers and Instructors[13] | Communication, customer service, listening, motivational, physical, and problem-solving skills. | $46,480 | 14% (much faster than average) | Fitness trainers and instructors monitor clients to ensure that they are using appropriate techniques for training and provide options during their workouts to make their fitness journey more successful. They explain safety regulations on recreational activities or sports, give information on nutrition and lifestyle, etc. |
| Exercise Physiologists[14] | Compassion, decision-making, detail-oriented, and interpersonal skills. | $54,860 | 10% (much faster than average) | Exercise physiologists analyze a client’s medical history to assess the risks taken during exercise and determine the best practice or fitness regimen for them. They also perform stress or fitness tests with medical equipment and analyze the different results from patient data. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Nutrition Degree Graduates
Professional certifications provide a competitive advantage to students and increase their earning potential. They also offer professional credibility by proving to employers that individuals do not just meet the minimum requirement but are interested in furthering their knowledge. Here are some standard certifications that online degree in nutrition graduates can obtain:
Certified Nutritional Consultant[15]
The Certified Nutritional Consultant (CNC) certification signifies expertise in nutritional counseling and holistic wellness. Holders assess clients’ dietary habits, develop personalized nutrition plans, and offer guidance on lifestyle modifications. This certification enhances credibility in the field and empowers professionals to impact clients’ health and well-being positively.
Certified Nutrition Coach Certification[16]
The Certified Nutrition Coach Certification (CNCC) equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to guide clients toward healthier lifestyles through nutrition. With a focus on evidence-based practices and behavior change techniques, holders empower clients to make sustainable dietary choices, fostering long-term health and wellness transformations.
American Fitness Professionals Association (AFPA) Certifications[17]
American Fitness Professionals Association (AFPA) certifications offer comprehensive training in various fitness disciplines, including personal training, nutrition, and wellness coaching. Recognized for their rigor and quality, AFPA certifications equip professionals with the expertise to excel in the dynamic fitness field and contribute to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
Some states mandate certifications and licensures for legal practice within their jurisdiction. With proper licensing, professionals can perform their duties in the nutrition field. A Licensed Nutritionist can obtain credentials from the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists, Clinical Nutrition Certification Board, or Commission on Dietetic Registration. Additional licensure options exist for those aspiring to become Registered Dietitians or Registered Dietitian Nutritionists.
Additional Resources for Online Nutrition Degree Graduates
There are various resources for students attending a bachelor’s degree in nutrition online nutrition programs to access information outside their regular curriculum. By joining prestigious organizations in this field, individuals can stay updated with information in their area and expand their professional network. Here are a few organizations that online bachelor’s degree students in nutrition can explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| National Association of Nutrition Professionals | The National Association of Nutrition Professionals offers a competitive edge, fostering active leadership in the holistic nutrition community. They certify members in Holistic Nutrition, promote professional unity, and offer extensive networking opportunities, empowering individuals to excel in their field and contribute to holistic wellness initiatives. |
| Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics | The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, representing over 112,000 credentialed practitioners, is the world’s largest nutrition and food professionals organization. Dedicated to enhancing the nation’s health, it advances the profession through education, advocacy, and research, shaping the landscape of nutrition and dietetics for improved public wellness. |
| American Nutrition Association | The American Nutrition Association specializes in training members in personalized well-being and nutrition, blending science with practice. Through webinars led by renowned clinicians and researchers and curated original research, they empower healthcare and research professionals with cutting-edge insights, advancing the field of nutrition for improved health outcomes. |
| American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition | The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) is a global medical professional organization comprising clinical nutrition therapists. Its diverse membership includes nurses, dietitians, physicians, physician assistants, students, and scientists. ASPEN provides a platform for collaboration, education, and advancement in parenteral and enteral nutrition therapy. |
| American Council on Science and Health | The American Council on Science and Health, comprising 300+ scientists, policy experts, and physicians, conducts peer-reviewed reports and engages in media communications and educational activities. It strives to inform policymakers and the public by debunking false notions through evidence-based research, promoting informed decision-making for improved public health outcomes. |
FAQs About Online Nutrition Degree Programs
Can you get a nutrition degree online?
Many accredited universities and colleges offer online nutrition degree programs. These programs cover various topics, including dietetics, food science, and nutritional therapy. Online learning allows students to study independently and balance their education with other commitments.
How to get a degree in nutrition online?
Is a nutrition degree online worth it?
Can you apply for certifications after completing an online nutrition degree?
What can you do with an online nutrition degree?
How much does a bachelor’s in nutrition cost?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Dietitians and Nutritionists
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Coursera-Introduction to Food and Health
edx-Nutrition and Health: Macronutrients and Overnutrition
The Health Science Academy-Starter Nutrition Course
Naugatuck Valley Medical Scholarship Fund
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation Scholarship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Health Education Specialists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Fitness Trainers and Instructors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Exercise Physiologists
Certified Nutritional Consultant
Certified Nutrition Coach Certification
American Fitness Professionals Association (AFPA) Certifications