Becoming the Next Top Nutritionist
Dietitians and nutritionists help clients develop healthy eating habits through one-on-one consultations and personalized diet plans. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the demand for these professionals to grow 11% between 2020-2030, which is double the median projected growth rate for all U.S. jobs.
The BLS reports that dietitians and nutritionists earn a median annual salary of $63,090. Professionals who work at outpatient care centers earn more than their peers who work at hospitals, government agencies, and residential care facilities. Workers can increase their salary potential by becoming a certified nutrition specialist.
Aspiring dieticians and nutritionists can start their careers by earning a nutritional science degree. An online nutrition science program gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
This guide ranks the best online bachelor's in nutritional science programs. It also covers information on professional organizations and scholarships for nutritional science students.
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Nutrition Program Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a nutritional scientist and a dietician?
Professionals in both fields offer dietary advice to clients. However, states use different requirements, such as education and experience requirements, in regulating these professions.
How do you become a nutritional scientist?
People typically need a nutritional science degree to work as nutritional scientists. They also need to meet their state's licensure requirements, if applicable.
What can I do with a bachelor's in nutrition?
Graduates with a bachelor's in nutrition can work as nutritionists and registered dieticians. These professionals help clients make better dietary and lifestyle choices.
Do nutritionists get paid well?
Nutrition science professionals make a median annual salary of $63,090. Professionals in California, Alaska, and Washington, D.C. typically earn more than their peers in other locations.
What Are the Goals of a Nutritional Science Degree?
A bachelor's in nutritional science degree typically covers STEM topics, including organic chemistry and biochemistry. They also cover topics like nutrition and metabolism, nutritional anthropology, and nutrition research.
Many online nutrition science programs offer specializations in areas like dietetics and sports nutrition. These specializations can help students prepare for specific career paths after graduation.
Why Get a Nutritional Science Degree?
A nutritional science degree offers many benefits, several of which we outline below.
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1
Explore Different Careers
Graduates with a nutritional science degree can pursue diverse roles in areas such as clinical dietetics, food and nutrition management, and public health nutrition.
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2
Apply to Master's Programs
A bachelor's in nutritional science prepares students to pursue graduate study, such as a master's in nutrition. Graduate programs give students advanced expertise in the field, preparing them for leadership roles.
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Many nutritional science degrees offer specializations, allowing students to tailor the program to their interests and goals.
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Registered dietitians and nutritionists possess the knowledge and skills necessary to run their own private practice.
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Nutrition science careers allow professionals to help people improve their relationship with food, making a positive impact on the community.
What Are the Requirements for a Nutritional Science Degree?
Admission requirements for nutritional science bachelor's programs vary by school. Applicants typically must hold a high school diploma or equivalent and submit transcripts. They may also need to submit recommendation letters, a resume, an essay, and/or standardized test scores.
Once admitted, students must complete general education and major courses. They may also need to complete an internship or practicum and/or a capstone course during their final semester. Many schools require students to maintain a certain GPA to graduate.
Online Bachelor's in Nutritional Science Programs
#1 Online Nutrition Science Degrees
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The programs at Arizona State University help professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. People interested in nutritional science can pursue the school's bachelor of science in food and nutrition entrepreneurship. The coursework covers core topics and specialized training. After completing general education classes, learners take major classes relevant to their field of study.
The school’s multiple start dates provide enrollment flexibility. The school has a 64% admission rate. The application process requires school transcripts. The school may request some applicants’ test scores. Arizona State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
Arizona State University Fast Facts:
Percentage of Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 86%
Average Cost After Aid: $14,568
Accepts Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent of Students Accepted: 64%
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Nutrition Science Degrees
The University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A degree from the University of Arizona leads to new career opportunities and increased responsibilities. Students looking to further their nutritional science training can enroll in the bachelor of science in nutritional sciences offered by the institution. Distance learners complete nutritional science coursework in a flexible learning environment. The nutritional science curriculum covers core topics and specialized training.
Applicants to the school must send previous transcripts to admissions. Degree-seekers can access support services such as tutoring and career counseling. The school’s website provides details about how to earn credit for experiential learning. The University of Arizona has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Arizona Fast Facts:
Per-Credit Tuition: $1,050
Percentage of Learners Awarded Aid: 91%
Average Cost After Aid: $16,580
Accepts Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent of Students Accepted: 85%
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Nutrition Science Degrees
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 years
- Online
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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