Top Online Nutritionist and Dietitian Degree Programs for 2025
Make Your Selection From the Best Online Nutritionist
and Dietician Degree Programs Available
See what these stand-out universities are doing to make our list of top-recommended Nutritionist and Dietitian degrees.Master of Science in Medical Nutrition
Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Master of Public Health Nutrition, Food Systems and Health Concentration
Bachelor of Science in Health and Wellness
Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Bachelor of Science in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness
PROS
Holistic nutrition concentration option is NANP-approved for holistic nutrition education A capstone project demonstrates your abilities to apply your education to real-world scenarios Try out courses for 3 weeks before making a financial commitment Graduate pathway program allows you to jump-start a master’s degree while earning your bachelor’s May accept an experiential learning portfolio for credit toward the bachelor’s for significant tuition savings Add an additional elective to become a CDM (Certified Dietary Manger) in food services May qualify students to pursue certification as a ServSafe Food Manager
PROS
Both standard and dietetics tracks available to customize your career path Explore research evidence for disease-specific nutritional information and recommendations Students on the dietetics track may apply for a dietetic internship to qualify for the RDN exam Learn from professors with research expertise and experience working in such areas as diabetes and big data analysis Develop research skills to leverage testing strategies and data for new nutritional interventions in clinical practice Learn to use patient information to craft individual nutrition management plans for optimal health and risk factor reduction
PROS
Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the #1 public school of public health in the country and #2 overall Join an unparalleled network of national and international public health leaders Extensive support includes admissions guidance/academic planning/career services Students receive faculty mentoring and one-on-one guidance from experienced professors Offers 200+ hours of MPH practicum or more than 1000 hours of supervised practice experience Live classes are taught by nationally-recognized faculty CEPH-accredited MPH
PROS
An accelerated master’s pathway in the BS program offers a head start on an MHA or MPH degree Special Empowered Learning® courses allow you to take advantage of professional and life experiences to get ahead Offers a holistic approach to healthcare in a variety of settings Develop your wellness advocacy skills to advance both behavioral and physical health Undergo a health and wellness capstone course prior to graduation to demonstrate critical thinking skills and knowledge gained through the program
PROS
Designed to prepare students to take the CDR to become an RD or RDN Hands-on practice drives home lessons in nutrition and dietetics through 1000 hours of experiential learning Emphasizes the use of nutritional therapy in disease prevention and management A final capstone project allows you to demonstrate dietetics and nutrition best practices in a professional environment Accommodates both current nutrition professionals and those with bachelor’s degrees in other majors Transfer in up to 12 credits (1/3 of the total) toward the MS degree
PROS
Access to the Believe and Achieve Scholarship offers each student financial incentives for academic performance Concentration prepares students for the CHES (Certified Health Education Specialist) exam Three different degree completion options offer a fit for almost any schedule or learning style Competency-based Tempo Learning may allow degree completion in as few as 20 months Exceptional student services include 24/7 tech support/online Writing Center access/career services support Program faculty are active practitioners and leaders in the fieldThe Questions People Most Often Ask About Online Degrees in Nutrition and Dietetics
While everyone knows that nutrition is a key part of protecting your health, few people understand how to put together a properly balanced and nutritionally complete plan that caters to the unique dietary needs of individuals across the full spectrum of health.
The same is true when it comes to the right education for different career paths in nutrition and dietetics, and how that merges with the world of online education.
We’re here to clear up the basics and provide the answers you need to start taking real steps towards the career in nutrition you deserve.
Important 2024 Update: The Commission on Dietetic Registration now requires a master’s degree for new RDNs. If you’re just starting, plan for this from the beginning.
Understanding Your Degree and Certification Options in the Field of Nutrition and Dietetics
| Credential | What It Means | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| RD/RDN | Same credential, protected title, can work in clinical settings | Master’s degree + internship + national exam |
| Licensed Nutritionist | State-regulated, requirements vary | Bachelor’s minimum, varies by state |
| Nutritionist | Unregulated in many states | Varies widely, certificate to degree |
Let’s clear up something that confuses a lot of people starting their nutrition career journey. You’ve probably seen both RD and RDN thrown around and wondered if they’re different things. Here’s the simple truth: RD (Registered Dietitian) and RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) are the exact same credential. The name was updated in 2013 to better reflect what dietitians actually do—they’re nutrition experts, after all!
Is There Any Real Difference Between Online Nutritionist Degree Programs and Traditional On-Campus Programs?
Here’s what matters most: online nutritionist degree programs and traditional on-campus programs lead to the exact same credentials. They require the same number of credits, include the same courses, test you on the same subjects to the same standards, and are frequently even taught by the same professors. The quality? Identical. The recognition by employers? The same.
What’s different is how you’ll experience your education:
Online Programs
- Study when it works for you (midnight? early morning? your choice!)
- Keep your day job while earning your degree
- Access programs nationwide, not just nearby
- Perfect for self-motivated learners
- Connect with classmates through forums and video calls
Traditional Programs
- Set schedule keeps you on track
- Face-to-face time with professors
- Spontaneous study groups and connections
- Campus resources and facilities
- Traditional college experience
Are ACEND-Accredited Online RDN Degrees Just as Good as Campus Programs?
Absolutely. When a program has ACEND (Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics) accreditation, it meets rigorous national standards—period. It doesn’t matter if you’re learning online or in a classroom. Your online RDN degrees will qualify you to:
- Sit for the national RDN exam
- Apply for state licensure
- Compete for the same jobs as campus graduates
- Command the same respect in the field
Employers care about your knowledge, skills, and credentials—not whether you attended classes in your pajamas or drove to campus.
What Degree Is Best if I Want to Earn Nutritionist Certification?
Your path into the field and the certification you earn depend on your career goals and your state’s requirements. Here’s a breakdown of nutritionist degree programs to consider:
| If You Want To… | You’ll Need… | Time Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Work as a general nutritionist | Bachelor’s in nutrition (varies by state) | 4 years |
| Earn the RDN | Master’s in nutrition + internship | 6+ years total |
| Start quickly (where allowed) | Nutritionist certificate program | 6 months – 2 years |
Popular Bachelor’s Degree Options:
- BS in Nutrition – More science-heavy, great for clinical paths
- BA in Nutrition – Often includes more liberal arts, good for counseling
- Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Food and Nutrition
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
With over 600 ACEND-accredited programs available, including many schools with online nutrition majors, you’ll find options that fit your schedule and learning style.
What Degree Is Best if I Want to Earn the RDN Credential?
If your goal is the RDN credential, the path is clear but requires commitment. As of 2024, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s in nutrition (or related field) from an ACEND-accredited program
- A master’s in nutrition from an ACEND-accredited program
- At least 1,000 hours of supervised practice
- Pass the national RDN exam
Popular Graduate Options:
- MS in Nutrition – Research-focused, opens doors to advanced practice
- MA in Nutrition – Often more counseling/education focused
- Master of Public Health with Nutrition Concentration
- Master’s in Medical Nutrition
- Master’s in Clinical Nutrition
Many online nutrition graduate programs offer the same rigorous preparation as campus programs, with the added benefit of continuing to work while you study.
How Can I Complete the Required Field Experience for My RDN?
Don’t worry—online dietitian degree programs have this figured out. Most programs include coordinated internships, meaning your field experience is built right into your degree. Even if you’re studying online, programs arrange local placements near you.
If your program doesn’t include an internship, you can apply for stand-alone ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internships. These are competitive (about 60% match rate), so strong grades and experience help.
What Type of Jobs Will You Be Qualified for With an Online Degree in Nutrition?
Your online nutritionist degree programs open the same doors as any traditional degree. Where you studied matters far less than what you studied and the credentials you earned. Here’s what’s possible:
| Career Path | Typical Settings | Median Salary Range* |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Dietitian (RDN) | Hospitals, clinics | $61,000 – $75,000 |
| Sports Nutritionist | Teams, fitness centers | $55,000 – $85,000 |
| Private Practice | Your own business | Varies widely |
| Corporate Wellness | Companies, wellness programs | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Public Health Nutritionist | Government, nonprofits | $50,000 – $70,000 |
*Salary ranges are approximate and vary by location and experience
How Do I Choose the Right Nutritionist Certificate or Degree Program?
Whether you’re looking at nutritionist certificate programs or full degrees, consider these factors:
- Your State’s Requirements – This is crucial! Some states let you practice with a certificate, others require a full degree
- ACEND Accreditation – Essential if you want the RDN credential
- Your Career Goals – Clinical work? You’ll need RDN. Wellness coaching? Requirements vary
- Program Format – Can you relocate, or do you need an online nutritionist certificate program?
- Cost and Time – Certificates are faster and cheaper, but limit your options
Quick Guide: How to Get a Nutritionist License by State Type
Understanding how to get a nutritionist license starts with knowing your state’s approach:
| State Type | What This Means | Your Path |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed States | Strict requirements, protected title | Usually need RDN or specific degree |
| Certified States | Voluntary certification available | Can practice without, but certification helps |
| Unregulated States | No state requirements | Accredited nutritionist courses are still recommended |
Your Next Steps in Preparing for The Nutritionist Degree and Certification That’s Best For You
Ready to transform your passion for healthy living into a meaningful career? Here’s your action plan:
- Check your state’s requirements – This determines everything else
- Decide on your career focus – Clinical? Wellness? Sports? This shapes your education path
- Research programs – Look for ACEND accreditation if you want flexibility
- Consider your lifestyle – Online nutritionist classes might be perfect if you need flexibility
- Connect with professionals – Talk to RDNs and nutritionists in your desired field
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career Journey?
Whether you’re interested in online RDN degrees, nutritionist certificate programs online, or traditional campus programs, the perfect path is out there. The world needs more passionate nutrition professionals who understand that food is medicine and wellness is a lifestyle.
Your journey to helping people live fuller, funner lives through nutrition starts with a single step. Take that step today.