A master’s in dietetics is a required credential for becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and a gateway to leadership roles in a field projected to grow at more than twice the national average over the next decade. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance, an online program gives you the flexibility to earn your degree without putting your career on hold. This guide ranks the best online dietetics master’s programs, and goes deeper with program breakdowns, career options, and everything you need to know about costs and accreditation.
Author: Shannon Lee
Expertise: Graduate Ed.CareersOnline LearningEditor: Kristin Marino
- Program Spotlights
An In-Depth Look at Accredited Online Dietetics Programs
Read more - Degree Benefits
Why Earn an Online Master's in Dietetics?
Read more - What You'll Learn
What You'll Learn in a Master's in Dietetics Online Programs
Read more - Accreditation
ACEND Accreditation for Master's in Dietetics Online Programs
Read more - Salary/Pay
Salary Outlook with a Master's in Dietetics
Read more - Top Schools
Top Online Dietetics Master's Programs
Read more
An In-Depth Look at Accredited Online Dietetics Programs
When searching for a quality, affordable online dietetics master’s program, it can be helpful to take a deeper look at individual programs. To paint a clearer picture of what you’ll learn, how long the degree takes, and the types of specializations available, we’ve outlined three of today’s top online dietetics master’s programs below.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, students follow the Coordinated Program in Dietetics model to become RDNs. Specifically, they can enroll in the ACEND-accredited Dietitian Education Program, which leads to a Master of Science in Nutrition Sciences and a curriculum that contains the necessary coursework and supervised learning experiences to sit for the exam to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.
The curriculum is designed for full-time study, consisting of 58 credit hours that can be completed in two years, including a summer term. During the summer, fall, and spring terms, students will take between 10 and 13 credits, with 24 total credits allotted for supervised learning experiences.
Even though the coursework can be completed online for maximum flexibility, the supervised learning is in-person. However, UAB allows students to earn the supervised learning requirements at a location convenient to them.
Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University’s Online Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is designed for current RDNs as well as students who will receive a DPD verification statement or have been accepted into a dietetic internship. Centered around a practice-based focus, the program aims to help students apply advanced knowledge, skills, and research directly to their work.
The program’s curriculum consists of 33 credits and does not include a thesis. Furthermore, its 100% online format makes it easy for students to earn their degree on top of working full time or completing an internship. No campus visits are required.
Regardless of their chosen track, all students take courses to prepare for work in a wide range of practice areas, such as geriatrics, maternal health, pediatrics, and eating disorders. However, students can specialize by choosing one of three concentrations:
- Nutrition and Healthy Weight
- Nutrition and Sports
- Nutrition in the Lifecycle
Logan University
The Master’s of Science in Applied Nutrition and Dietetics online program at Logan University consists of 42 credits. Notably, Logan was one of the first institutions in the country to offer a comprehensive graduate nutrition program under the Future Education Model, which changed the minimum educational requirement for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree as of January 1, 2024.
Students in the program complete two main curriculum components. First, they complete their online core coursework and specialized RDN courses. This consists of classes such as:
- Lifecycle Nutrition
- Nutritional Science
- Clinical Nutrition in Human Systems
- Nutrition Epidemiology and Health Promotion
Second, they complete 30 weeks of supervised experiential learning (SEL), allowing them to apply their learning in real-world situations. Students fulfill the SEL curriculum component at a variety of sites around the St. Louis area. Upon successful completion of the entire curriculum, students are eligible to sit for the registration exam to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists.
Why Earn an Online Master’s in Dietetics?
The master’s in dietetics online degree is well worth the time and effort. Not only is this degree convenient to earn, but it is also essential to taking full advantage of a dietetics and nutrition education. Let’s look at the benefits of earning a master’s degree that a bachelor’s degree just can’t provide you:
1. Learning flexibility
Except for the curriculum’s supervised practice component, most of the classwork can be completed online. And in most cases, it can be completed asynchronously, allowing students to attend class at a time that’s most convenient for them, even if it’s in the middle of the night or on weekends.
2. Required to become an RDN
As of January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration began requiring applicants to hold a master’s degree to become Registered Dietician Nutritionists. The CDR has updated the eligibility requirements for the RD exam to reflect this change.
3. Obtain an advanced level of knowledge
Whether it’s the desire to learn more about a topic commonly seen in practice or to earn sufficient knowledge to be eligible for the Certified Nutrition Specialist credential, an online master’s in dietetics degree makes it possible for students to dive deep into a particular area of nutrition.
What You’ll Learn in a Master’s in Dietetics Online Programs
The curriculum in online master’s programs in dietetics can vary widely. Some can include a thesis, capstone, or internship – or none of the above.
It largely depends on what the goals are for the program, such as being qualified to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. However, there are many similarities across dietetics master’s degree online programs, like classes that focus on certain populations’ nutrition needs.
Popular Courses
Advanced Medical Nutrition
This class provides information about the importance of proper nutrition to maintain health and medical issues that have causes rooted in poor nutrition. Course content also addresses interactions between nutrients and medications.
Nutrition Internship
This class can usually be found in the Dietetic Internship or supervised experiential learning component of an online dietetics master’s degree program. Students will obtain practical experience in how nutrition principles apply to real-world situations, such as with athletes, preventing disease, and research.
Micronutrients
This course examines what micronutrients are in relation to human processes. For example, students will see how human cells use micronutrients and how the metabolic process is affected by them.
Practicum in Medical Nutrition Therapy
Students will apply their nutritional knowledge in a therapeutic context, such as hospitals or long-term care settings. During this practicum, students will monitor the diets of their patients and how those diets affect the patients’ overall health.
Geriatric Nutrition
This course will explain what the nutritional needs are for older individuals. Topics covered include the relationships between diet and human aging and how lifestyle changes associated with aging can change a person’s nutritional needs.
ACEND Accreditation for Master’s in Dietetics Online Programs
Accreditation is the process by which schools and programs request a review from an independent organization that assesses their educational offerings and confirms they meet a minimum level of quality. Employers typically only recognize accredited degrees. Furthermore, an accredited degree may be needed to be eligible for a credential or certification.
There are two primary types of accreditation, institutional and programmatic. Institutional applies to an entire educational institution. Programmatic accreditation applies to a specific program.
Within the context of master’s in dietetics online degree programs, the primary accrediting body is the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. Students wishing to become Registered Dietician Nutritionists must complete coursework and supervised training from an ACEND-accredited program.
Salary Outlook with a Master’s in Dietetics
A master’s in dietetics builds advanced clinical and research expertise, positioning you for leadership in hospital nutrition departments, outpatient care, public health programs, and private practice. Graduates work as registered dietitians, clinical nutrition specialists, food service managers, and nutrition educators — often pursuing board certifications in specialty areas like oncology, renal, or sports dietetics. The degree is increasingly expected for competitive clinical positions.
Dietitians with graduate credentials and specialty certifications command stronger salaries than generalist positions, particularly in acute care and subspecialty clinical settings. Earnings also grow with management responsibility.
Use the salary table below to see what dietitians and nutritionists earn across the country, and explore how clinical dietetics pay compares in your state.
Nutritionists
| Area | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $76,400 | $89,340 | $103,720 |
| Alabama | $66,190 | $77,700 | $87,450 |
| Alaska | $87,980 | $97,510 | $105,970 |
| Arizona | $64,410 | $78,780 | $92,370 |
| Arkansas | $65,540 | $83,050 | $174,060 |
| California | $98,850 | $110,660 | $130,850 |
| Colorado | $75,510 | $87,920 | $114,350 |
| Connecticut | $80,600 | $90,020 | $100,140 |
| Delaware | $78,060 | $95,320 | $111,600 |
| District of Columbia | $82,150 | $98,430 | $111,530 |
| Florida | $76,050 | $82,040 | $93,530 |
| Georgia | $73,200 | $83,280 | $96,430 |
| Hawaii | $81,920 | $94,070 | $100,610 |
| Idaho | $71,610 | $78,430 | $87,780 |
| Illinois | $73,520 | $83,010 | $115,190 |
| Indiana | $66,450 | $78,040 | $84,320 |
| Iowa | $72,690 | $80,100 | $92,940 |
| Kansas | $66,830 | $79,510 | $90,310 |
| Kentucky | $69,520 | $78,880 | $89,710 |
| Louisiana | $70,460 | $80,880 | $91,560 |
| Maine | $64,610 | $87,820 | $129,180 |
| Maryland | $77,800 | $86,900 | $100,900 |
| Massachusetts | $76,660 | $94,530 | $107,150 |
| Michigan | $66,850 | $78,530 | $84,530 |
| Minnesota | $77,540 | $85,140 | $94,580 |
| Mississippi | $63,700 | $77,060 | $86,260 |
| Missouri | $65,450 | $76,860 | $85,900 |
| Montana | $71,580 | $78,540 | $90,740 |
| Nebraska | $70,160 | $80,930 | $89,550 |
| Nevada | $69,030 | $89,230 | $101,400 |
| New Hampshire | $71,840 | $83,400 | $92,810 |
| New Jersey | $84,450 | $98,530 | $114,400 |
| New Mexico | $74,730 | $78,320 | $91,660 |
| New York | $82,480 | $98,100 | $105,830 |
| North Carolina | $67,560 | $78,690 | $88,860 |
| North Dakota | $70,040 | $79,980 | $86,260 |
| Ohio | $69,530 | $79,110 | $91,820 |
| Oklahoma | $69,560 | $83,390 | $86,990 |
| Oregon | $84,180 | $99,660 | $105,020 |
| Pennsylvania | $67,410 | $78,850 | $92,150 |
| Rhode Island | $71,300 | $86,680 | $100,770 |
| South Carolina | $69,970 | $79,620 | $95,020 |
| South Dakota | $64,890 | $77,830 | $88,710 |
| Tennessee | $67,620 | $77,880 | $90,200 |
| Texas | $74,440 | $84,570 | $98,960 |
| Utah | $65,310 | $81,610 | $99,770 |
| Vermont | $77,450 | $89,990 | $102,500 |
| Virginia | $77,380 | $88,700 | $103,130 |
| Washington | $84,220 | $99,940 | $108,010 |
| West Virginia | $89,440 | $92,390 | $103,130 |
| Wisconsin | $74,930 | $82,170 | $91,520 |
| Wyoming | $64,370 | $83,920 | $100,930 |
Source: BLS, OEWS, May 2025
Showing 1 – 10 of 52 entries | Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.
Costs and Financial Aid for Online Master’s Degrees in Dietetics
Earning a graduate degree can be expensive, but there are many financial aid options available to help. Among the most common are scholarships, grants, fellowships, employer tuition assistance, and student loans. These can come from various providers, including federal and state government, corporations, charities, and the student’s employer. To find out more about these and other financial aid opportunities, look at our financial aid page.
How Affordable Your Online Master’s in Dietetics Could Be
| Program | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Est. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arizona | 30 | $950 | $28,500 |
| University of Rhode Island | 36 | $918 | $33,048 |
| Simmons University | 31-32 | $1,315 | $40,765–$42,080 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Dietetics Master’s Degrees
Top Online Dietetics Master’s Programs
Deciding to pursue a master’s is an exciting step, but it can also feel overwhelming when it comes to determining which school is the best fit. We are here to help you sift through the options.
Exhaustive research of the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) has enabled us to identify the ten best online master’s degree programs in dietetics. Our findings hinge on multiple factors, including accreditation, affordability, availability of a variety of online programs, favorable student-to-faculty ratios, and more. Continue reading below to learn which programs deserve a gold star.