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Our diet-obsessed culture is fraught with misinformation and challenged by a lack of access to healthy food for some populations. The nutritional science field seeks to understand how the human body responds physiologically and metabolically to food and diets.
A bachelor's degree in nutritional science can be the first step towards a career in planning and implementing food service programs, conducting research, and counseling groups and individuals.
Explore this guide to learn about nutritional science programs, the admissions process, and possible career options.
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Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Nutritional Science
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#1 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
A large public research university, Purdue University is located in Lafayette, IN. The Department of Nutrition Science offers a Bachelor of Science with several concentration options. The DNS options include both a Coordinated and a Didactic Program in Dietetics which students can choose between. Students in the Coordinated program receive the required 1200 hours of supervised practice, while students in the Didactic program are qualified to apply for an internship after graduation.
Other options include a major in Foods and Nutrition in Business, Nutrition, and Fitness, and Health, Nutrition Science, in addition to a Nutrition Science-PreMed track. Another unique element of the program at Purdue is that any of the majors offered in the department can be paired with another major in the department so students can maximize their educational experience.
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
4 years
Campus
The University of Texas at Austin is a large public research university. The College of Natural Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. The program includes six different options, making it one of the most flexible of its kind. Students can choose a Dietetics option which comes in two different forms: either a Didactic program or a Coordinated program.
Students can choose a Nutritional Sciences option, which focuses on research and prepares students for graduate study. The Nutrition and Public Health option prepares students for public service. The fourth and fifth options require admittance to the honors college and are honors versions of the Nutritional Sciences and Nutrition. The last option is the International Nutrition option, which provides a global frame for students.
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
The flagship institution in the state university system, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university. The Department of Nutrition offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. The program has a robust pre-med focus and can also equip students who want to go into public health professions but do not necessarily want to pursue the registered dietitian credential.
Admission to the program requires completion of UNC general education as well as several science prerequisites. Students must pass their biology, chemistry, and math prerequisites with a C or higher. The average GPA of incoming students was 3.7. Students take classes like Health Policy and Management, Nutrition Across the Lifecycle, and Human Metabolism: Macronutrients, among many others.
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Harrisonburg, VA, James Madison University is a public research university. The Department of Health Professions offers a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics. The program is a Didactic Program in Dietetics, giving students the academic background needed to apply for a supervised practice internship, in preparation for becoming a Registered Dietitian.
Prospective students apply for the BSD during their second year at JMU and must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0. In the program, students take classes like Allied Health Microbiology, Quantity Food Production, and Ethical Decision-Making in Healthcare. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA to be in good standing in the program, and classes in the major must be passed with a C or higher.
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH
4 years
Campus
Consistently one of the largest institutions of higher learning in the country, Ohio State University is located in Columbus, OH. The Department of Human Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition with three different tracks available. Students can choose the Dietetics track, the Nutrition in Industry track, or the Nutritional Sciences track.
The DT option gives students the academic background necessary for students to enter the profession after pursuing a dietetic internship. The NI option is geared for students who are interested in the business of food science. The NS track is the most flexible of the options and gives a solid grounding in the sciences for people interested in pursuing additional graduate-level research or for entering a career in the field.
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Minnesota is a large research university located in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. The Department of Food Science and Nutrition offers a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science among other programs. The program is designed for students who are interested in going to medical school, pharmacy school or dental school, or for students interested in further study in a graduate program.
Students take courses in the sciences from areas like biology, statistics, and microbiology. Core classes include Experimental Nutrition, Nutrition and Metabolism, and Life Cycle Nutrition. Students can also apply for the Integrated BS/Master of Science Plan B Nutrition Degree, whereby they can receive both a bachelors and masters within five years.
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Buffalo is a public research university and is a member of the State University of New York system. The Health, Nutrition, and Dietetics Department offers a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics. Students can either choose to follow the Didactic Program or the Dietitian Education Program. The DEP program provides both theoretical training as well as the 1,200 hours of supervised practice required to sit for exams.
The DP provides the academic requirements needed to apply for supervised practice hours after graduation. Students must have and maintain a 2.75 GPA for entrance and continuance in both programs. Classes include Applied Management in Dietetics, Life Cycle and Community Nutrition, and Integrative and Functional Nutrition.
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Washington’s residential campus is located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest city of Seattle, WA. The School of Public Health offers a Bachelor of Arts in Food Systems, Nutrition & Health. The program is interdisciplinary and asks students to consider not only the human biological interactions with food, but also inquires into the larger social, cultural, and political contexts in which food is produced and consumed.
Core courses include Food Systems Modeling & Analysis, US Food Systems Policy, and Food Systems: Individual to Population Health. Students can also take classes from a wide range of disciplines, including not only the sciences, but also economics, communications, oceanography, political science, and philosophy.
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#9 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT
4 years
Campus
The University of Connecticut is a public research university with a large and diverse student body in Storrs, CT. UC offers a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences through the Department of Nutritional Sciences. The BSD is a Didactic program which gives students the needed academic background for applying for supervised practice.
The BSN degree is a science-focused degree which deals with nutrition from the molecular level up to the movement of the human body. Students can take classes like Interdisciplinary Approach to Obesity Prevention, Food, Culture, and Society, and International Studies in Nutritional Sciences in the program. The DNS also has two competitive scholarships for which students are encouraged to apply.
Degree:BS in Dietitics, BS in Nutritional Sciences
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,406
Out-of-state
$37,074
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,908
Out-of-state
$38,820
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
27,215
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Columbia, MO, the University of Missouri is a public research university with an annual enrollment of over 30,000 students. UM offers a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food as well as a BS-Master of Science in Dietetics. Students must apply to the five-year program in Dietetics to be able to complete the BSNF degree. The program is designed for students who want to become Registered Dietetics.
The first two years consist of general education and prerequisites; students then apply to the program and must have a 3.2 GPA. Once accepted, students can take classes like Medical Pharmacology, Nutrition Throughout the Life Span, and Community Nutrition, among others. The program includes both the academic and supervised practice required to sit for the Registration Examination for Dietitians.
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
Pittsburgh, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Pittsburgh’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Science awards a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science, in addition to a Co-ordinate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics. Both programs have been highly ranked for their excellence.
Starting in their Junior year, students can take classes like Pathophysiology & Human Disease, Live Cycle Nutrition, and Nutrition Critical Thinking. Admission to the degree requires 60 credits with a minimum of 2.5 GPA. This includes prerequisites in chemistry, statistics, biology, and mathematics. Students can work with experts in the field of athletic training, nutrition science, and dietetics.
Degree:BS in Nutrition with Coordinated Program in Nutrition and Dietetics
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,628
Out-of-state
$32,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,530
Out-of-state
$39,898
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
32,277
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#12 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of Vermont
Burlington, VT
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Vermont is located in Burlington, VT. UV is a public research university with a student population of over 11,000 each year. The Department of Nutrition of Food Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Sciences. The University designed its BSNFS for individuals interested in entering the food services industry, medical professions, and community health organizations.
The program requires 42-51 credits. Students can take classes like Human Health in the Food System, Nutritional Education & Counseling, and Nutrition in the Life Cycle. The department also offers a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics, Nutrition and Food Sciences for students who are interested in heading into the profession.
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#13 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Illinois at Chicago is a public research university that enrolls over 30,000 students each year. UIC offers a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with two tracks, a Coordinate Program which leads to the possibility of being registered as a dietitian, and the other is a Didactic program is offered as a foundation for any number of careers in the health professions or further study.
The Coordinate Program requires at least 1,200 hours of supervised practice. Students can take classes like Genetic, Molecular, and Cellular Mechanisms of Chronic Disease, Quantity Food Production, and Nutrition During the Life Cycle. There are several different research labs sponsored by UIC, including the Center on Health Promotion, where students can participate in services and co-curricular experiences.
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
Youngstown State University is located in the state of Ohio, with 12,000 students enrolled annually. YSU’s Bitonte College of Health and Human Services offers a Bachelor of Science in Applied Science in Dietetics. Students have two options, a Coordinated Bachelor’s Program in Dietetics and a Didactic Bachelor’s Program in Dietetics.
The CBPD requires 132 credits with 1,200 supervised hours. The DBPD requires 120 credits. Students can take classes like Medical Nutrition Therapy, Food Systems: Operation, Production, and Service, and Science of Nutrition in Exercise. Students have interned at sites like Salem Regional Medical Center and the St. Elizabeth Health Center, as well as the YSU Andrews Recreational Center.
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Nutritional Science
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI
4 years
Campus
Wayne State University is located in Detroit, MI, and is a public research university. WSU offers three different degrees in the nutrition sciences: a Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition & Food Science, a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Food Science, and a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics. The BA is geared for individuals who are interested in non-technical positions.
The BSNFS is designed for students interested in technical positions in food processing, manufacturing, and research and development in the field. The BSD is designed especially for students who intend to become a Registered Dietitian and includes 1,200 practical hours, which makes it ideal for those seeking certification.
Degree:BA/BS in Nutrition and Food Science BS in Dietetics
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,024
Out-of-state
$29,894
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,285
Out-of-state
$35,274
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
26,241
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Methodology Overview
Best College Reviews ranks schools based on over a dozen factors, including academic quality, affordability, and earning potential after graduation. We use data from trusted sources like the U.S. Department of Education to accurately and objectively assess school value, considering important factors such as student retention rate, average net price, and median student debt.
What to Look for in a Nutritional Science Bachelor's Program
While exploring bachelor's in nutritional science programs, pay particular attention to admission requirements, curricula, accreditation, program length, graduation rates, and learning formats. These metrics contribute to the overall program rankings and can help you find the best school for your academic and professional goals.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements indicate the competitiveness of the school's acceptance process and can help predict your chances of getting in. Selective programs may require 3.5 minimum GPAs and at least a C in biology, chemistry, and math classes.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum focus should help you meet your goals. Programs offer tracks that include dietetics, food and nutrition in business, nutritional science research, and nutritional science for pre-medical professionals.
Earning a bachelor's degree in nutritional science usually takes four years of full-time study. The first two years cover general education and prerequisite courses, while the second two focus on nutritional science coursework.
School Graduation Rate
School graduation rates can tell you whether the program successfully prepares students for employment or further study in nutritional science. Top schools typically report 70-90% graduation rates. You can find specific school graduation rates on the College Scorecard website.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Online learning provides flexibility and cost savings. It is not necessarily less rigorous than on-campus study and has particular challenges. Asynchronous programs are completed according to students' schedules and require self-discipline and organization. Synchronous classes mimic the on-campus experience.
Why Is Nutritional Science Bachelor's Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation means the program has undergone review by an independent accrediting organization to ensure it adheres to quality academic and industry standards.
Accreditation is also important to students for practical reasons:
State licensure boards and national certification boards require applicants to hold degrees from accredited programs, such as ACEND.
Nutritional science graduate programs may require ACEND-accredited bachelor's degrees for admission.
Many graduate programs, including professional schools, will not accept transfer credits from unaccredited schools or programs.
Attendance at an unaccredited school can result in denial of financial aid.
Employers may prefer or require degrees from accredited schools and programs.
Applying to a Nutritional Science Bachelor's Program
The process for applying to a bachelor's degree in nutritional science program can vary by school. Typical requirements include a high school diploma or GED certificate, application, and general education requirements.
Admission Requirements
Common undergraduate admission requirements for first-year students include:
High school college preparatory coursework
High school transcript or equivalent
Personal essay
Recommendation letters
SAT or ACT scores (optional at many schools)
Admission criteria for the nutritional science major include a 2.0-3.7 GPA in general education classes and a C minimum grade in math, science, and other prerequisite courses.
What Can You Do With a Nutritional Science Bachelor's Degree?
A bachelor's degree in nutritional science can help you pursue careers spanning culinary science, food safety, food service management, public policy, and research. State board licensing requirements vary.
Even in states that don't require licensure, a registered dietitian license, registered dietitian nutritionist license, or certified nutrition specialist credential can lead to more job opportunities and career advancement. However, both licensure and certification require a master's degree.
Below are examples of three roles in nutritional science.
Clinical Dietician: Clinical dietitians formulate intravenous feeding prescriptions with care teams, select and manage tube feedings, and modify special diets for acutely ill hospital patients.
Registered Dietitian Manager: These professionals manage teams of registered dietitians who offer nutritional guidance to food service managers, food distributors, athletic departments and teams, nursing home residents, and individuals with food-related conditions as employees or independent practitioners. They may not work individually with customers or clients regarding disease-specific conditions. They often have program oversight and budget responsibilities.
Public Health Nutritionist: Public and community health careers include governmental and private roles advocating for public policy and advising, monitoring, and teaching communities and groups about health eating habits and food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nutritional Science Bachelor’s Programs
What is a nutritional science degree?
Schools offer nutritional science degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. A bachelor's degree in nutritional science can lead to employment in states that don't require licensure or graduate study in states that do.
What's the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
Dietitians monitor their patients' eating habits and design meal plans to prevent or aid recovery from illness. Nutritionists advise clients about how food impacts their health. Dietitians are usually more regulated than nutritionists.
How much do nutritionists make?
Dietitians and nutritionists earn an average median annual salary of $69,680, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% of earners make $98,830, while the lowest 10% earn $44,910. Dietitians and nutritionists in California, New Jersey, and Oregon earn the most, with annual wages in the $80,000 range.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Best College Reviews. Page last reviewed June 28, 2024.
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