Overview
![]() | No GRE Required | ![]() | 100% Online | ![]() | No Thesis Required |
Offered through the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, the University of Georgia’s online Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutritional Sciences, Community Nutrition is designed for working professionals and those who wish to broaden their knowledge in the field. This Online Master of Science in Nutrition program requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of coursework including a final capstone course and can be completed in one year.The Online Master of Science in Nutrition program provides opportunities for hands-on real-world experience in providing nutrition interventions and education. After completing the coursework, it is possible for students who are working in the field of school nutrition to become eligible for certification as Georgia School Nutrition Directors. Graduates from this program assume a variety of roles including those of Extension and Outreach professionals, school nutrition directors or coordinators, and other nutrition-related positions in the public and private sector.
The Online Master of Science in Nutrition Program ranked top in the nation.
Accreditations
The University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of the University of Georgia may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
College of Family and Consumer Sciences is accredited by The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS).
Faculty
Cost
Tuition & Fees
Tuition rates and student fees can change each year.
Based on 2022 credit hour cost, a person completing this program at the recommended pace would have paid$18,870 in tuition.
Please use theEstimated Cost Calculatoron theBursar's Office websiteto calculate one academic (Fall/Spring) year's current tuition.
This program is an E-Rate program, so choose “yes” for the E-Rate line item within the calculator.
Online students pay the following fees: Connect UGA, Green, and Technology. The total for thosefees in the fall semester of 2022 was $147for students enrolled in exclusively online courses.
Potential additional costs include textbooks, exam proctoring fees, and technology upgrades.
Financial Aid
Visit the Office of Student Financial Aidfor information about financial assistance.
Corporate Assistance
Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs for the Online Master of Science in Nutrition program.
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Military Assistance
Active duty military, veterans, and military families should visit Veterans Educational Benefitsto take full advantage of available financial assistance and educational benefits.
University System of Georgia Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
The purpose of TAP is to foster the professional growth and development of eligible employees. For more information, see Tuition Assistance (refer to the Distance Learning section).
Technology Requirements
- Computer with current operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux). Additional peripherals such as webcam, headphones, and printer may be required.
- High-speed internet access.
Admissions
Credit and Transfer
Total Hours Required to Earn Degree: 30 (credit hours)
Maximum Hours Transferable into Program: 6
Only transfer credits from an accredited institution will be considered. If transfer credit is awarded, it will still be necessary to complete the required number of hours to graduate, which will more than likely necessitate additional coursework above and beyond the degree program requirements.
Online Master of Science in Nutrition Program Admission Requirements
GRE scores are not required for the Online, Community Nutrition area of emphasis. Applications will be reviewed holistically using the applicant’s GPA (at least 3.0 GPA) from an accredited institution, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose that demonstrates intellectual capacity, drive, and determination to be successful in graduate coursework, as well as previous accomplishments and experience. Applicants who have GRE scores or other standardized exam scores (PCAT, MCAT, etc.) may submit them for consideration, but they are not required.
- Hold Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
- Have a semester of basic biology, basic chemistry, and foundational nutrition on their transcript. Students may be admitted if they are missing one of these prerequisites, but they will be required to take that course in the first semester of the program.
- Have cumulative grade point average for all previous undergraduate courses of 3.0 or above on a 4-point scale
- Provide three letters of recommendation from people who know you professionally or as a scholar
- Develop a statement of purposes and goals that can reasonably be met by the degree program
- Have access to a computer with a high-speed internet connection, and email account
- Work or volunteer experience in an area related to health, nutrition, or food science preferred
Application Checklist
- Application– Submit theGraduate School Admissionsonline. Application fee: $75 Domestic/$100 International
- Select campus- Online
- Select Intended Program- MS, Nutritional Sciences (Foods and Nutrition)[MS_NTSC_NT_O]
- Select Area of Emphasis- Community Nutrition
- Résumé or curriculum vita– Upload to the Graduate School application.
- Statement of Purpose–Submit a one-page statement of purposeonline to the Graduate School. The statement of intent should clarify the candidate's relevant background, interests, and goals in relation to the program.
- Transcripts–Submit unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended as part of the Graduate School application. Send official transcripts after you are offered admission.
- Letters of Recommendation–Submit three letters of recommendation online to graduate school. Letters should be from individuals who can evaluate the applicant’s scholarly ability and potential for success in a graduate program. Preferably at least two of them are from faculty who have instructed the applicant in a previous program of study. The application will prompt your recommenders to submit their letters electronically.
International Applicants - must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Applicants
Fall: July 1
Spring: October 15
Summer: April 1
International Deadlines
Fall: April 15
Spring: October 15
Summer: February 15
Registration deadlines vary per semester. The UGAOffice of the Registrarwebsite provides up-to-date information on registration dates.
Curriculum
Online Master of Science in Nutrition Program Requirements
FDNS Core Courses (19 Credits)
- NUTR 4050/6050E (3) Optimal Nutrition for the Life Span
- NUTR 6240E (3) Nutrition and Obesity Across the Lifespan
- NUTR 6670E (4) Nutrition Intervention
- NUTR 6560E (3) Nutrition Health and Aging
- NUTR 6665E (3) Childhood and Adolescent Nutrition
- NUTR 6270E (3) Community Nutrition
Research Methods (3 Credits)
- HPRB 7510E (3) Health Promotion Research Methods (preferred) or
- ERSH 4200E/6200E Methods of Research in Education (3) or
- LLOD 6200E Evaluating and Interpreting Research in Learning,
- Leadership and Organization Development (3) or
- ALDR 8200E Research Methods in Agricultural Education (3)
Electives (8-9 Credits)
- NUTR 6250E Diet and Disease for Nutrition Educators (3)
- NUTR 6640E Food Sanitation and Safety (3)
- NUTR 6620E Management of Food Service Organizations (2)
- NUTR 6800E Pharmacotherapy for Disease Management (3)
- NUTR 6230E Current issues in Sport Nutrition (3)
- ALDR 7350E Team and Organization Development in Ag.Organization (3)
- LLOD 7030E Program Development in Learning, Leadership andOrganization Development (3)
- LLOD 7040E Training Design and Delivery (3)
- ALDR 7020E (changing to ALDR 8350E) Program Evaluation (3)
- ALDR (AGED) (AGCM) 4800E/6800E Grant Seeking (3)
- FDST 7150E Food Ingredients and Function (3)
- LLOD 8205E Leading from Within: Developing Personal andInterpersonal Leadership Capacity (3)
- LLOD 8210E Leading Change in Workplace and Adult Ed. Org. (3)
- LLOD 8320E Facilitating Group Change and Development (3)
- LLOD 8110E Learning, Leadership & Organization Development ForCommunity Development (3)
- WFED 9020E Leadership Development in Workforce Education (3)
- LLOD 8300E Organization Development (3)
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Contact Information
Contact the online Community Nutrition Coordinator for answers to any additional questions you may have.
Email us using the request for information form or call 706-452-7946
Testimonials
Testimonials
"The courses I have taken so far have been so helpful to me professionally and personally. As an educator, I feel like it is my responsibility to stay up to date on the most current information and trends, and I feel like working on my Master’s Degree has further enriched my knowledge. I’ve learned a lot about doing research, which is a very important part of my job. In one of my classes, I found out about resources to help with tabulating evaluation data. I have also done projects on nutrition and food safety that I will be able to use to teach classes in my community."- Susan Moore, '20
FAQs
Online Master of Science in Foods and Nutrition? ›
One of the biggest reasons why a master's in nutritional sciences is worth it is its earning potential. The average salary of master's in nutritional sciences degree holders is $65,620, which is above the national average. Graduates have the potential to earn more if they go into private practice.
Is a Masters in Nutrition worth it? ›One of the biggest reasons why a master's in nutritional sciences is worth it is its earning potential. The average salary of master's in nutritional sciences degree holders is $65,620, which is above the national average. Graduates have the potential to earn more if they go into private practice.
Is a Masters in Nutrition hard? ›While the MS in Nutrition is a challenging program, it is not a difficult major as long as you are interested in the science courses and stay committed to your studies. If you are fascinated by nutrition and the body, you will want to understand the mechanism behind food and good nutrition.
What is a master in food science and human nutrition? ›The Master of Science degree in food science and nutrition with a specialization in nutrition aims to provide you with cutting-edge educational and research opportunities in molecular, clinical, and community nutrition. The coursework has a strong focus on the relationship between nutrition and health.
Does UGA have a nutrition program? ›The Nutritional Sciences Program prepares you for careers in the health sciences, including medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and physical therapy. By studying this integrative discipline, you fulfill pre-med requirements while learning how diet and specific nutrients influence human physiology and disease.
How high of a demand is a nutritionist? ›"People told her I was a cook," she says. "They didn't really know (what I did as a dietitian and nutritionist)." The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6.8% employment growth for dietitians and nutritionists between 2021 and 2031. In that period, an estimated 5,100 jobs should open up.
What degree is best for a nutritionist? ›Degrees Needed for Nutritionists
Typically, anyone who completes a degree in nutrition can refer to themselves as a nutritionist. This could be varying levels of education: a bachelor's degree in nutrition, a master's in nutrition or a Master of Public Health with a concentration in nutrition.
Limited scope of practice
One major downside of being a nutritionist is that in some jurisdictions nutritionists can not become licensed healthcare professionals. This can limit the spectrum of their practice and their ability to provide specific types of medical advice and certain forms of treatment.
- Wellness consultant. National average salary: $53,634 per year. ...
- Nutritionist. National average salary: $47,707 per year. ...
- Dietitian. National average salary: $47,455 per year. ...
- Market researcher. ...
- Clinical dietitian. ...
- Health and wellness manager. ...
- Public health nurse. ...
- Food technologist.
Dietitians have one of the least stressful careers out there. However, they do occasionally have to deal with intense situations. Anyone who just found out that they have a disease and need to change their eating habits isn't going to be especially pleased with the dietitian telling them such things.
How much does a food science and human nutrition make? ›
While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $147,500 and as low as $21,000, the majority of Nutrition Scientist salaries currently range between $62,500 (25th percentile) to $132,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $143,500 annually across the United States.
What is the difference between Nutrition science and human Nutrition and dietetics? ›Nutritional Science examines the effects of food consumption on the metabolism, health, and disease resistance in humans. Dietetics is the application of food and nutrition principles in healthcare and food service settings.
What is food science and human nutrition major? ›The Major in Nutrition and Food Science involves integration of the biological, medical, and social sciences and their application to the improvement of human nutrition and fitness, prevention of chronic disease, and improved quality of life. The major is both science- and human service-oriented.
What state pays the most for a nutritionist? ›- California: $82,380.
- District of Columbia: $80,600.
- Hawaii: $75,020.
- New Jersey: $74,850.
- Rhode Island: $74,080.
How much does a Nutrition Coach make in Atlanta, Georgia? As of Mar 18, 2023, the average annual pay for a Nutrition Coach in Atlanta is $38,986 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $18.74 an hour. This is the equivalent of $749/week or $3,248/month.
What is the best state to be a nutritionist in? ›Best-Paying States for Dietitians and Nutritionists
The states and districts that pay Dietitians and Nutritionists the highest mean salary are California ($82,380), District of Columbia ($80,600), Hawaii ($75,020), New Jersey ($74,850), and Rhode Island ($74,080).
Percentile | Salary | Location |
---|---|---|
10th Percentile Nutritionist Salary | $56,246 | US |
25th Percentile Nutritionist Salary | $61,800 | US |
50th Percentile Nutritionist Salary | $67,900 | US |
75th Percentile Nutritionist Salary | $74,600 | US |
...
Nutritionist Age.
Nutritionist Years | Percentages |
---|---|
40+ years | 51% |
30-40 years | 31% |
20-30 years | 18% |
User poll. Our visitors have voted that it's unclear if this occupation will be replaced. However, employees may be able to find reassurance in the automated risk level we have generated, which only shows 9% chance of automation.
What are 3 skills needed to be a nutritionist? ›- Analytical skills. Dietitians and nutritionists must keep up with food and nutrition research. ...
- Compassion. ...
- Listening skills. ...
- Organizational skills. ...
- Problem-solving skills. ...
- Speaking skills.
Is it worth it to major in nutrition? ›
Majoring in nutrition is a great way to learn how the human body works and how to stay healthy. Once you've earned your degree through a nutrition program, you can continue on to higher education opportunities or jump right into working entry-level positions in the health care field.
Are nutrition degrees worth it? ›Is a nutrition degree worth it? In general, the short answer is yes, it's worth it if you want to become a Nutritionist. Also because the degree is a legal requirement to enter the profession. However, there are other considerations to make.
Are dietitians worth the money? ›If you hire a Registered Dietitian, you'll save time and money, and you get faster results, says Brikho. “A dietitian will not only show you what to do but also HOW to do it so that you finally see the results you have been wanting and learn how to maintain those results long term,” she says.
Do dieticians have a good work life balance? ›Consultant dietitians often weave together multiple positions to create full-time work. Dietitians are entrepreneurial and love working this way. The flexibility and ability to say yes and no to assignments as they choose creates a great work-life balance.
Does nutrition require math? ›Basic math skills are necessary as a dietitian; however, it is uncertain if dietetic students have sufficient math proficiency.
Can you make 6 figures as a dietitian? ›A dietitian who specializes in eating disorders will typically work in an in-patient or out-patient clinical setting. And those dietitians with an advanced degree can make upwards of $256,300 annually!
Is it hard to major in nutrition? ›Studying nutrition and dietetics is more difficult than one may think, involving coursework that is commonly associated with a medical degree. Understanding the complex aspects of the human body as a functioning and resilient organism requires studying its physical and psychological components.
How do I start a career in nutrition? ›- Hold a bachelor's degree or higher in an area like dietetics, human nutrition, food and nutrition, and community nutrition.
- Complete at least 900 hours of clinical nutrition experience.
- Pass an examination through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Chief Clinical Dietitian. Salary range: $62,000-$110,500 per year. ...
- Metabolic Specialist. Salary range: $39,000-$92,000 per year. ...
- Registered Dietician. Salary range: $59,000-$89,500 per year. ...
- Research Dietitian. ...
- Public Health Nutritionist. ...
- Clinical Dietitian. ...
- Renal Dietitian. ...
- Nutrition Consultant.
Nutritionists are investigative and enterprising
Nutritionists tend to be predominantly investigative individuals, which means that they are quite inquisitive and curious people that often like to spend time alone with their thoughts.
Which country is best for nutrition jobs? ›
- Nutrition in USA.
- Nutrition in UK.
- Nutrition in Canada.
- Nutrition in Australia.
- Nutrition in Ireland.
- Nutrition in Finland.
- Nutrition in Cyprus.
- Nutrition in Italy.
- #7. Food Microbiologist.
- #6. Food Technologist.
- #5. Food Research Scientist.
- #4. Packaging Manager.
- #3. Food Engineer.
- #2. Marketing Manager.
- #1. Quality Assurance Manager.
- Conclusion.
Specifically, professionals in the field make almost $73,500 per year on average. Top earners make much more—over $125,000 annually, in fact. Graduates of food science degree programs will find the most lucrative opportunities in food manufacturing, research and development, and government agencies.
How do I find a food technologist? ›Entry-level food scientists are easy to find. Simply go to the IFT website (www.ift.org) and from there you can find a list of approved Food Science programs and contact the University to post your job.
Which is better nutrition or food science? ›A Nutrition Degree
Nutrition is more widely known and more tangible than a food science degree, and it also sounds a bit better because you are trying to get people to be healthy instead of the many implications food scientists get when you first hear of them.
While food science focuses on manufacturing, processing and production of food, nutrition focuses on the maintenance of good health and the wellbeing of populations.
How many years is human nutrition and dietetics? ›Human Nutrition and Dietetics is a 4-year degree programme with the first year devoted to basic studies and Introductory Nutrition and Dietetics. The second year is divided between the basic courses and courses in Nutrition and Dietetics in line with NUC guidelines.
Is food and nutrition a stem major? ›Food science is a STEM field in which science, technology, engineering, and mathematics plays a crucial role. Food scientists work in every facet of the multi-billion-dollar food industry. Earning a degree from one of the best food science programs can help students start their career off on the right foot.
What do you do in food science and nutrition? ›- Nutritionist.
- Community Nutrition Educator.
- Nutrition Journalist.
- Sales Representative.
- Consumer Advocate.
- Weight Loss Specialist.
- Eating Disorders Technician.
- Program Manager.
The study of human nutrition and dietetics emphasizes the effect of nutrients on people's health and the role of diet in the prevention or treatment of chronic diseases. Nutrition is a diverse, rewarding, and growing field that requires a strong background in science and what, how, and why people eat.
How can you make money as a nutritionist? ›
- Market Research Participant.
- Corporate Wellness Gigs.
- Mentoring.
- Virtual Assisting.
- Social Media Manager.
- Freelance Writing.
- Medical Reviewer.
- Freelance Recipe Development & Food Photography or Videography.
Ultimately, depending on your condition and needs, a nutritionist consultation can cost on anywhere from $100-$200 per consultation. Working with a nutritionist can be a great option for improving your overall diet and nutrition.
What is the difference between a nutritionist and a certified nutrition coach? ›A nutritionist is a health professional who provides nutrition counseling and education. The term “nutritionist” is not regulated, so anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. A nutrition coach is a health and fitness professional who specializes in helping clients improve their eating habits.
What's the difference between a nutritionist and a coach? ›Health coaches focus on goal-setting; they create strategies and accountability measures so that clients achieve their health objectives. Nutritionists on the other hand, devise nutrition guidelines and plans from which the client has to work from.
Is nutrition coach certification worth it? ›Combining personal training and nutrition certification can make you more valuable in the industry as an overall NASM health coach. If you're a personal trainer who already works with clients on their nutrition, this certification can increase your skills and yearly salary.
How can I make a lot of money with a nutrition degree? ›- Wellness consultant. National average salary: $53,634 per year. ...
- Nutritionist. National average salary: $47,707 per year. ...
- Dietitian. National average salary: $47,455 per year. ...
- Market researcher. ...
- Clinical dietitian. ...
- Health and wellness manager. ...
- Public health nurse. ...
- Food technologist.
Certifications are the shortest programs of the options while degrees take the longest and cost the most. Degrees can be an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or a master's degree with distance (online) programs available. Licenses are also an option after higher education.
What do you do with a PhD in nutrition? ›PhD Nutrition. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph. D.) degree in nutrition prepares you for a career in academia, governmental agencies, research institutes, nonprofit organizations, and private industry.
Do nutritionists have advanced degrees? ›Effective January 1, 2024, the minimum degree requirement for eligibility to take the registration examination for dietitians will change from a bachelor's degree to a graduate degree. All other didactic and supervised practice eligibility requirements will remain the same.
Does nutrition go towards science GPA? ›Which classes are not included in the BCPM GPA? Psychology courses would seem to be scientific in nature, but they fall under “social sciences” so won't count towards your BCPM GPA. Same with Sociology. Nutrition classes for the most part aren't included.
What state pays the most for a Nutritionist? ›
- California: $82,380.
- District of Columbia: $80,600.
- Hawaii: $75,020.
- New Jersey: $74,850.
- Rhode Island: $74,080.
How Much Does a Dietitian and Nutritionist Make? Dietitians and Nutritionists made a median salary of $61,650 in 2021. The best-paid 25% made $77,430 that year, while the lowest-paid 25% made $49,490.
Is nutrition a Phd? ›The Ph. D. in Nutrition is designed to prepare you for a professional career in nutrition through a combination of coursework and research. If you're in interested in human nutrition, you are encouraged to add elective courses in epidemiology or exercise science.
What is the difference between a certified nutrition coach and a dietitian? ›Registered dietitians are allowed to prescribe meal plans and supplements and coach individuals with medical illnesses/diseases. Treating individuals with medical conditions is known as medical nutrition therapy, and this is the biggest factor that separates dietitians from general nutritionists or nutrition coaches.
Is nutrition science the same as nutrition and health? ›The Nutrition and Health emphasis prepares students for careers in various nutrition or health fields (Nutrition and Health Emphasis). The Nutrition Science Program will promote an appreciation for the multidiscipline nature of modern nutrition research.
How much is Harvard nutrition PhD stipend? ›All students receive full tuition and stipend support while they are enrolled and making satisfactory progress toward the Ph. D. degree. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the stipend support is $44,376 or $3,698 per month.
How long does a PhD in nutrition take? ›Of course – just like with undergraduate nutrition study – time and money are huge barriers for many people. A masters degree usually takes 2-3 years; a PhD 4-6 years. Add in an undergrad degree, and some nutrition students spend between 7 and 11 years completing their education.
How hard is it to get a PhD in nutrition? ›Obtaining a doctorate in nutrition is a very long and involved process that requires substantial education and experience. However, with some long-term planning and dedication, you'll be able to get a PhD in nutrition and move on to a successful and fulfilling career.