Arguably, we are now more consciously concerned with our health due to diet and supplements than at any other point in history, possibly fueled by the popularity of hundreds or thousands of highly-subscribed YouTube food and wellness channels. In the quest for maintaining our health, we have pushed dietary supplements to a billion dollar industry in the U.S. alone, before including all aspects of the food and beverage industry.
The US BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) indicates that job growth for dietitians and nutritionists is expected to be 16% between 2014 and 2024. However, as the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) has set Jan 1, 2024, as the start date for new eligibility requirements for the Registered Dietitian Nutrition professional certification. New applicants for the exam, starting on that date, must hold a graduate degree (minimum of a master’s; any topic).
As having a master’s degree also benefits professionals in other nutrition-related careers, we present this ranking of the best, most affordable online master’s degrees in nutrition-related studies (see topic list in the Methodology section, below). A shortlist of potential careers or work environments for graduates of nutrition-related master’s degrees include:
- Author
- Certified Dietary Manager (CDM)
- Community and Public Health
- Consulting – Private Practice (athletes, food vendors, individuals, nursing homes, restaurants)
- Fitness/ Wellness Director
- Food Biotechnology
- Food Industry Research and Development
- Food Product Quality Control
- Food Safety
- Health and Nutrition Advisor
- Health and Wellness Coach
- HMOs
- Hospitals
- Laboratory
- Long-Term Care Facilities
- Marketing
- Medical/Dental/PA
- Nutrition Business Industry (food and nutrition marketing, product development, supermarkets)
- Nutritionist (private, clinical or medical practice)
- Personal Trainer
- Public Relations
- Quality Assurance
- Registered Dietetic Technician
- Registered Dietitian (RD)
- Research
- Retail Food Inspector
- School Nutrition Coordinator
- School Nutrition Director
- Sports Performance and Nutrition Coach
- Sports/ Athletics
- Strength and Conditioning Coach
- Teaching – lower-division college level
- Wellness Coach
Methodology
College data is sourced from NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) and IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) Data Center, both maintained by the U.S. Dept of Education.
- Step 1: Query NCES for public U.S. institutions offering “distance” graduate programs in any of the following six topics:
- Human Nutrition
- Nutrition Sciences
- Clinical Nutrition/Nutritionist
- Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services, Other
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services, Other
- Step 2: Refine the results with data from IPEDS, of colleges offering online master’s programs.
- Step 3: Combine the two resulting data sets based on IPEDS ID.
- Step 4: For each institution, add any mandatory graduate fees to the graduate in-state tuition (which is an average of all programs at a given institution), to determine approximate yearly tuition+fees cost.
- Step 5: Sort ascending by estimated in-state cost.
- Step 6: Manually verify that an institution actually has one or more online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in the aforementioned nutrition-related topics.
NOTE: Tuition is subject to change and the costs listed here are based on institutional averages. Verify all costs before applying to any college/ university.
Affordable Online Master’s Degrees in Nutrition-Related Studies
25. Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, Colorado

Colorado State University-Fort Collins (CSU, est. 1870) is a public institution and a member of the Colorado State University System. It serves students at three campuses/ learning centers, and online.
CSU offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition (MSFSN) with three specializations:
- Dietetics
- Food Science
- Nutrition
This program requires 35 to 37 credits and is intended for current Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RD, RDN) only. It is delivered by the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition and is available through a collaboration of 20 public universities in the Great Plains region. Program objectives include the promotion of “health and disease management through food and nutrition programs.” The curriculum provides “up-to-date knowledge in foods, nutrition, and food service and business management.” Sample online core courses include: Research Methods in Dietetics; Issues in Dietetics Practice; Micronutrients. Students have a choice between thesis and non-thesis tracks (both worth six credits). Alternatives:
- In-state: $12,035 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $26,430 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Bloomberg Businessweek; Forbes Magazine; Princeton Review; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Value Schools; Top Public Schools; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs for Veterans; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Actors Keith Carradine (Nashville, Deadwood, Dexter) and John Amos (Good Times, Mary Tyler Moore Show)
- #students: 33,083
- grads: 7,560
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
24. University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW, est. 1848) is a public institution and a member of the University of Wisconsin System. Accomplishments include nearly two dozen faculty and alumni who have earned Nobel Prizes in various sciences, economics, and literature categories, and over 40 who have earned Pulitzer Prizes.
UW offers economical bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 480 affordable degree programs at all levels. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition (MSCN), delivered by the Department of Nutritional Sciences in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. This 30-credit online master’s degree program (part- or full-time, 1-2 years) prepares individuals for leadership careers in clinical nutrition and dietetics, with roles that may include policy, research and developments in clinical nutrition practice. The curriculum follows the guidelines of the Commission on Dietetic Registration, which will require a minimum of a Master’s degree starting in 2024 for admission to the Registration Exam for Dietitians. Sample courses include: Personalized Nutrition – Genetics, Genomics, and Metagenomics; Micronutrients: Human Physiology and Disease; Advanced Community Nutrition. Alternatives: an online, 12-credit grad certificate in clinical nutrition, which can be applied towards the MSCN degree.
- In-state: $11,988 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $25,314 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Center for World University Rankings; Forbes Magazine; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Colleges for Veterans); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Actresses Joan Cusack (sister of actor John Cusack) and Jane Kaczmarek (Malcolm in the Middle); directors/ producers David Zucker and brother Jerry Zucker
- #students: 42,977
- grads: 11,619
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
23. North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, North Carolina

North Carolina State University at Raleigh (NCSU, est. 1887) is a world-class public institution (top 1% in the world as per CWUR) and a member of the University of North Carolina (UNC) System. It serves students at three campuses and online.
NCSU offers top-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 90 cheap online degree programs alone. It has one low cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Nutrition. This is a 36-credit (minimum), hybrid, non-thesis program that requires a “directed practicum or internship or related independent project” (up to six credits). An alternate track is the Professional Science Master (PSM) with two emphasis choices: Feed Science; Human Nutrition, Food, and Bioprocessing. The curriculum is interdisciplinary, combining courses from four different departments (food, bioprocessing and nutrition science; animal science; poultry science; veterinary medicine), and requiring completion of a Practicum. Sample courses include: Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism; Principles of Human Nutrition; Life Cycle Nutrition.
- In-state: $11,027 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $26,502 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Entrepreneur Magazine; Forbes Magazine; Kiplinger’s Personal Finance; Money Magazine (#1 Public University in the state); Princeton Review; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Value Schools; Most Innovative Schools; Top Public Schools; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs for Veterans; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Rhett (McLaughlin) and Link (Neal), Internet celebrities and hosts of the YouTube channel Good Mythical Morning; entertainer/ host John Tesh
- #students: 34,432
- grads: 10,282
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
22. Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama

Auburn University (AU, est. 1856) is a public institution and a member of the Auburn University System. Originally founded as a men’s college (and briefly affiliated with the Methodist Church until 1872), it has been coed since 1892 and non-segregated since 1964, currently serving students on campus and online.
AU offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in nutrition-related topics: a best-value Master of Science in Nutrition (non-thesis option) with optional track in Hotel and Restaurant Management (HRMT;hybrid). Delivered by the Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, this is a 33-credit online master’s degree program with four emphasis options for the main track: Nutrition Science; Clinical Nutrition; Sports Nutrition; Community Nutrition. The HRMT track requires a one-day campus visit for presentation of an industry-based research project. Sample courses include: Human Nutrient Metabolism; Vitamins; Macronutrients.
- In-state: $10,974 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $29,658 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; Money Magazine (Best Colleges for Your Money); Kiplinger’s Personal Finance (100 Best Values in Public Colleges); U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Value Schools; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs for Veterans; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Apple CEO Tim Cook; Jimmy Wales, a Wikipedia co-founder; award-winning actress Octavia Spencer (Hidden Figures, The Shape of Water)
- #students: 29,776
- grads: 5,812
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
21. University of Georgia
Athens, Georgia

University of Georgia (UGA, est. 1785) is a public institution and a member of the University System of Georgia. It is amongst the oldest of American public universities, considered a “Public Ivy” by Greene’s Guides, and serving students on multiple campuses and online.
UGA offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one inexpensive online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science (MS) in Foods and Nutrition, Community Nutrition (FNCN). Delivered by the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, this is a 30-credit-minimum online master’s degree program that qualifies graduates for potential certification as a Georgia School Nutrition Director. Possible career roles include school nutrition coordinators and directors. Sample courses include: Optimal Nutrition for the Lifespan; Nutrition and Obesity Across the Lifespan; Management of Food Service Organizations. A Capstone is part of the curriculum.
- In-state: $10,970 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $26,958 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Business Programs – Excluding MBA); Victory Media (Military Friendly Schools); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Food Network TV show host Alton Brown (Good Eats); TV and radio personality Ryan Seacrest; Actors Kyle Chandler (Bloodline, Friday Night Lights, Early Edition) and Wayne Knight (Jurassic Park, Newman in Seinfeld); all four members of Rock band R.E.M.
- #students: 37,606
- grads: 8,758
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
20. Lasell College
Newton, Massachusetts

Lasell College/ Lasell University (LU, est. 1851) is a private, nonprofit institution. Originally founded as a female seminary, it has been coed since 1997, and achieved university status in August 2019.
LU offers affordable bachelor’s and master’s level degrees programs – over 40 programs in total. It has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in nutrition-related topics: a best-value Master of Science in Nutrition for Human Performance (MS-NHP). This is a 30-credit cheap online master’s degree program expected to take 24 months. It prepares graduates for potential careers as a nutrition or performance coach for athletes, personal trainer, wellness coach or director, etc. Sample courses include: Chemistry of Nutrition; Dietary Supplements and Human Health; Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism. A Capstone is part of the curriculum. No GRE/ GMAT score is required for admission.
- In-state: $10,960 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $10,960 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: U.S. News & World Report (Regional Universities North; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online Graduate Business Programs – Excluding MBA); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Entrepreneur/ model Nancy Donahue
- #students: 2,055
- #grads: 324
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
19. University of North Florida
Jacksonville, Florida

University of North Florida (UNF, est. 1972) is a public institution and a member of the State University System of Florida. It serves students on campus and online.
UNF offers economical associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one affordable online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSND) with four concentrations:
- Dietetics Professional Studies
- Global Health
- Healthcare Informatics
- Nutritional Sciences
This is a 35-credit, non-internship online master’s degree program that provides four options for a customized study plan, which determines the potential careers after graduation – primarily in a clinical or community based practice. To note: the Nutritional Sciences option requires completion of a thesis. The Global Health option completion of a study abroad course to earn a Global Health certificate. Sample online core courses include: Nutritional Epidemiology; Nutrition and Dietetics Research; Nutrition Education and Counseling. Electives vary by concentration option.
- In-state: $10,861 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $22,977 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine (Best Value Colleges); INSIGHT Into Diversity Magazine (HEED – Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award); Princeton Review; U.S. News & World Report (Regional Universities South; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Value Schools; Best Online Graduate Education Programs); Victory Media (Military Friendly School)
- Notable alumni: Romance novelist Rebecca Heflin (Dianne Farb); horror/ mystery novelist Will Ludwigsen
- #students: 16,309
- grads: 2,054
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
18. Kansas State University
Manhattan, Kansas

Kansas State University (KSU, est. 1863) is a public institution (the first in the state) and a member of the Kansas State University System. It serves students on three campuses and online (“Global”), and has been open to students of all backgrounds since it opened.
KSU offers best-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a low-cost Master of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics and Sensory Sciences (MS-NDSS), delivered by the College of Health and Human Sciences. This is an interdisciplinary online master’s degree program that allows students to choose from a broad range of electives: anatomy and physiology; animal sciences and industry; biochemistry; biology; business education; chemistry; grain science and industry; kinesiology, psychology. Students can further choose from one of five concentrations: Nutrition and Exercise Sciences; Nutrition Education and Communication; Nutritional Sciences; Public Health Nutrition; Sensory Analysis and Consumer Behavior. Depending on choice of thesis, report or coursework-only track, this cheap online master’s degree program requires 30-35 credit for completion. Sample core courses include: Graduate Seminar in Human Nutrition; Fundamental Methods of Biostatistics; Introduction to Statistical Methods for the Sciences.
- In-state: $10,822 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $23,345 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; Princeton Review; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Top Public Schools; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs for Veterans; Best Online MBA Programs); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Award-winning actress Kirstie Alley (Cheers); comedian Eddie Griffin; actor Gordon Jump (WKRP in Cincinnati)
- #students: 22,795
- grads: 4,307
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
17. University of Kansas
Lawrence, Kansas

University of Kansas (KU, est. 1865) is a public institution and a member of the Kansas State University System. It serves students at five campuses and online.
KU offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 400 economical degree programs in total. It has one low-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition (MSDN), delivered by the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition in the School of Health Professions. This cheap online master’s degree program (with thesis and non-thesis tracks) focuses on the “biochemical, clinical and behavioral aspects of nutrition.” This online master’s degree can also benefit the careers of students who are not registered dietitians, including journalists, medical school hopefuls and even those working in governmental agencies or research. Sample online courses include: Advanced Macronutrients and Metabolism; Advanced Micronutrients and Metabolism; Scientific Writing for the Nutritional Sciences. Students choosing the thesis track (30 credits) will prepare a written thesis and give a 30-minute oral exam and an oral defense. For the non-thesis track (33 credits), a written report, project defense and one hour oral exam are required.
- In-state: $10,704 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $23,718 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Value Schools; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs for Veterans; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Novelist Sara Paretsky (V.I. Warshawski); actors Paul Rudd (Ant-Man), Trai Byers (Empire), Scott Bakula (Star Trek: Enterprise), Mandy Patinkin (Criminal Minds), and Don Johnson (Miami Vice)
- #students: 27,625
- grads: 8,287
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
16. Framingham State University
Framingham, Massachusetts

Framingham State University (FSU, est. 1839) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher training school (the first public one countrywide). While not an HBCU or HSI, 30% of the university’s undergrads self-identify as “students of color.” This fact has contributed to Framingham earning a HEED (Higher Education Excellence in Diversity) award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.
FSU offers top-value bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 70 affordable degree programs in total. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in nutrition-related topics: a high-value Master of Education (MEd) in Nutrition Education (NE) with two concentrations: Nutrition Education Specialist (NES); School Nutrition Specialist (SNS). The NES is for health educators, nutrition professionals (RD-certified or not), school nutrition directors, etc. The SNS option is aimed at individuals seeking SNS certification. A minimum of 30 credits are required for graduation. Sample core online nutrition courses include: Contemporary Nutrition Issues in Schools; Computers in Nutrition Education; Independent Projects in Health and Wellness. Students in the SNS concentration must complete a practicum. To qualify for admission, students must hold a bachelor’s degree in any of the following areas: education (biology, consumer sciences, health, physical); food and nutrition; hospitality; nursing.
- In-state: $10,625 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $16,000 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Princeton Review (Green Colleges); U.S. News & World Report (Regional Universities North; Top Public Schools)
- Notable alumni: Teacher Christa McAuliffe, who was one of several astronauts that passed away in the tragic Space Shuttle Challenger accident
- #students: 5,691
- grads: 1,565
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
15. Logan University
Chesterfield, Missouri

Logan University (Logan, est. 1935) is a private, nonprofit institution. Originally founded as a chiropractic college, it currently offers affordable degree programs in biological and biomedical sciences, health professions (various), natural sciences, and kinesiology/ exercise science.
Logan offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs. It has one low cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance (MSNHP) with three relevant concentrations:
- Registered Dietitian (RD) – focus on disease prevention, health promotion, and intervention
- Nutritional Wellness (NW) – focus on health promotion, nutrition epidemiology, and sustainable food systems
- Sports and Fitness Nutrition (SFN) – focus on athletic nutritional assessment and physical performance
Delivered by the College of Health Sciences, 36-39 credits are required for graduation, depending on the selected concentration. The NW and SFN options offer a choice of thesis, internship or professional track. Completion of the RD option makes graduates eligible to sit for the RDN credential exam. Collectively, this online master’s degree program opens up career opportunities in consulting, education, nutrition-related businesses, public health programs, etc. Sample core online courses include: Lifecycle Nutrition; Nutritional Science; Nutritional Science. A GRE score is not required for admission.
- In-state: $10,060 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $10,060 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from:
- #students: 1,371
- grads: 1,245
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
14. Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, Ohio

Bowling Green State University (BGSU, est. 1910) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher training school. It serves students at two campuses and online.
BGSU offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Masters of Food and Nutrition (MFN). This low-cost online master’s degree program (39-40 credits, 100% online, 7-week courses, 2+ years) is designed for individuals interested in advanced careers in food and nutrition. Applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (food, nutrition or related) and have completed coursework in anatomy, biochemistry, nutrition, and physiology. The primary topics in the MFN cover clinical nutrition, community nutrition, macro and micro nutrients, phytochemicals, weight management. To customize studies, students can choose a cognate/ minor (nine credits) in an area of interest from: education; exercise physiology; microbiology; psychology; public health; scientific writing. Sample courses include: Family and Community Nutrition; Micronutrients Through the Life Span; Advanced Clinical Nutrition. A Master’s Project is part of the curriculum. Alternatives: an online, 15-credit grad certificate in Food and Nutrition.
- In-state: $9,608 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $15,260 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Business Insider (#1 in state for quality and affordability); Forbes Magazine; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Top Public Schools; Best Online Graduate Education Programs); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Sports commentator and former MLB baseball pitcher Orel Hershiser; musician Ric Ocasek (The Cars)
- #students: 17,357
- grads: 2,677
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
13. University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, Nebraska

University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL, est. 1869) is a public institution and a member of the University of Nebraska System. In addition to UNL earning a spot on (National Council for Home Safety and Security’s (NCHSS) Top 100 Safest College Communities list, its home base city of Lincoln ranked first in Daily Finances’s list of the country’s Healthiest Small Cities (2041). Several publications gave Lincoln a high score for livability, quality of life, best cities for college students, etc.
UNL offers inexpensive associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in nutrition-related topics: a low-cost Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Sciences (MSNHS) with a specialization in Dietetics. (Additional specialization options are on-campus only). The economical online master’s degree program is offered through a collaboration (“GP IDEA”) of 20 institutions and requires RD/ Registered Dietitian license (or eligibility for taking the exam). Students have three track choices, although only one is available online: (III) no thesis, no minor, comprehensive exam (36+ credits). Sample courses include: Nutrition: A Focus on Life Stages; Public Health Nutrition; Nutrition and Physical Activity in Aging. Note: other institutions in this article that offer a GP IDEA-based online master’s include Colorado State University and University of Nebraska–Lincoln, elsewhere in this list.
- In-state: $9,371 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $24,278 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Fiske Guide to Colleges (Best Buy School); Forbes Magazine; Kiplinger’s Personal Finance (Best Values in Public Schools); League of American Bicyclists; Military Times (Best Colleges); National Jurist; Princeton Review (Best Value Schools); U.S. News & World Report; Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Billionaire Warren Buffet; Twitter co-founder Evan Williams; former The Tonight Show TV host Johnny Carson
- #students: 26,079
- grads: 5,125
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
12. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana

Ball State University (BSU, est. 1918) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher training school. It has enjoyed a nearly 75% increase in applications over the five years, and has a culture of diversity and inclusion – a fact which has earned it a HEED (Higher Education Excellence in Diversity) award from INSIGHT into Diversity magazine.
BSU offers high-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – with over 70 cheap online degree programs alone. It has one inexpensive online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSND). This is an 36-credit online master’s degree program (full- or part-time) aimed at current RD/ RDNs seeking advanced careers in food and nutrition. Students have a choice of thesis or non-thesis tracks, and up to nine credits can be transferred in to the MSND. Sample courses include: Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Lipids; Vitamins and Minerals; Nutrition for Exercise and Sport.
- In-state: $9,216 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $21,834 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; Online Learning Consortium (Excellence in Institution-wide Online Education Award); Princeton Review (Best in the Midwest; Green Honor Roll); U.S. News & World Report (Top Public Schools; National Universities); Victory Media (Military Friendly School – Gold MF19-20); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: David Letterman, former late night TV show host; Garfield comic strip creator Jim Davis
- #students: 22,513
- grads: 5,509
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
11. University of Western States
Portland, Oregon

University of Western States (UWS, est. 1904) is a private, nonprofit institution originally founded as a chiropractic college – reputedly the second-oldest worldwide.
UWS offers high-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: an economical Master of Science (MS) in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine (HNFM) – claimed to be the only one of its kind in the country. This is a 52-quarter-credit (34.7 semester credit) online master’s degree program available through a collaboration between UWS and the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM). The HNFM program teaches a clinically-oriented, “science-based, patient-centered approach to achieving and maintaining excellent health” based on diet and nutrition – a whole-person approach instead of just a symptom-based approach. Graduates are qualified to sit for any of several nutrition-related professional certification exams. The program’s minimum timeline is two years, with 17 courses in the curriculum. Sample required online courses include: biology, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, medical terminology. Alternatives: an online grad certificate in HNFM (28 quarter credits).
- In-state: $8,348 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $8,348 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Victory Media (Military Friendly Schools)
- #students: 1,050
- grads: 1,002
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
10. University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi

University of Southern Mississippi (USM, est. 1910) is a public institution and a member of the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning. It serves students on two campuses and online.
USM offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one affordable online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Systems (MSNFS) with two emphasis options: Dietetics Practice (DP); Management of Child Nutrition (MCN). This online master’s degree program is 33-36 credits, with a thesis requirement (1-6 credits) for the DP emphasis (hybrid; combined with internship and supervised practice). It is intended for individuals planning to become a professional dietician. Sample core courses include: Biostatistics; Research Techniques for Nutrition and Food Systems; Special Problems in Nutrition. Sample DP courses: Food Systems Management; Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy
- In-state: $8,218 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $10,218 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; U.S. News & World Report; Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Singer/ songwriter Jimmy Buffet (possibly best known for Margaritaville); Hall-of-Fame football player Brett Favre; celebrity chef Cat Cora
- #students: 14,478
- grads: 2,663
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
9. University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, Missouri

University of Central Missouri (UCM, est. 1871) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher training school. It serves students at three campuses/ learning centers and online.
UCM offers affordable bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 150 low-cost degree programs at all levels. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science in Nutrition with two options: Clinical Nutrition (online); Sport Nutrition (hybrid). This online master’s degree program prepares individuals seeking a career as a dietitian or nutritionist, or those interested in a career in analyzing human performance and exercise metabolism. This is a 30- to 33-credit program with a choice of thesis (30cr) or non-thesis (33cr) tracks. Sample core courses include: Nutrition Across the Lifespan; Macronutrients; Micronutrients.
- In-state: $7,906 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $14,923 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Princeton Review (Best in the Midwest); U.S. News & World Report (Regional Universities Midwest; Top Public Schools; Best Value Schools; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Online MBA Programs)
- Notable alumni: Motivational author Dale Carnegie (How to Win Friends and Influence and People); actor Brian Thomas Smith (The Big Bang Theory)
- #students: 12,333
- grads: 2,532
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
8. University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB, est. 1969) is a public institution and a member of the University of Alabama System. It serves students online and on campus, and its home base of Birmingham was honored twice recently by Zagat’s on two lists: “next hot food cities” and a “most exciting food cities in America.”
UAB offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one low-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Nutrition Sciences (MSNS) with three track options:
- Clinical Track – Prior Learning Option (CT; 3+ semesters; internship) – allows existing nutrition/ dietetic practice hours to apply to the MSNS
- Dietitian Education Program (DEP; 5+ semesters) – preps students for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) professional certification exam
- Lifestyle Management and Disease Prevention (LMDP) – prepares students for designing and implementing nutrition and health programs to promote wellness in communities
Each track has its own goals (noted above), and differing requirements for completion. Contact UAB’s admissions department for more information.
- In-state: $7,866 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $17,910 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: National Arbor Day Foundation (Tree Campus USA); Forbes Magazine; INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine (Diversity Champion; Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award); U.S. News & World Report (Best Graduate Schools, including Healthcare Management); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Olympic gold medalist Vonetta Flowers (bobsledding)
- #students: 20,902
- grads: 7,768
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
7. Texas Tech University
Lubbock, Texas

Texas Tech University (TTU, est. 1923) is a public institution and a member of the Texas Tech University System. Amongst the accolades it has earned is the designation of being a Purple Heart University — one of the first earning that title, for its efforts in giving military personnel, veterans and family opportunities and support.
TTU offers cheap bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – including 300 degree programs alone. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in nutrition-related topics: a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSND). This a 33-credit (minimum), non-thesis online master’s program aimed at “dietetic interns matched with a dietetic internship or those who already have RD/RDN credentials.” Potential practice areas include: diabetes; eating disorders; geriatrics; maternal health; nutrition, exercise, and sport; nutrition support; obesity management; pediatrics. Graduates typically find careers in the broad health and wellness industry. Sample courses include: Introduction to Nutrition Research; Biostatistics in Nutrition; Issues in Sports Nutrition.
- In-state: $7,849 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $15,193 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Campus Pride Index; Forbes Magazine; INSIGHT Into Diversity; Money Magazine; Princeton Review; U.S. News & World Report; Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Pulitzer Prize winners Frank Bass, Dennis Copeland and Michael Crook; Rick Husband, astronaut and Space Shuttle Columbia commander
- #students: 36,996
- grads: 6,259
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
6. East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina

East Carolina University (ECU, est. 1907) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System. Originally founded for training teachers, but now offers a range of programs. Its student diversity has earned it a Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) award from INSIGHT into Diversity magazine.
ECU offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 120 affordable online degree programs alone. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: a best-value Master of Science in Nutrition. This is a 33-credit online master’s degree program with thesis or non-thesis track options. This online master’s program can be taken by either Registered Dietitians or individuals interested in nutrition for other purposes. Sample core online courses include: Human Nutrition in Physiology and Metabolism; Biostatistics for Health Professionals; Methods in Nutrition Research. The non-thesis track requires completion of an original research project.
- In-state: $7,270 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $20,419 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; Princeton Review (Best Colleges in the Southeast; Green Colleges); Social Mobility Index (top 15%); U.S. News & World Report (Best Online Graduate Education Programs); Victory Media (Military Friendly School); Victory Media (Military Friendly School); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Vince and Linda McMahon, husband and wife owners of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE); actresses Emily Procter (CSI: Miami) and Sandra Bullock
- #students: 29,131
- grads: 5,866
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
5. University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center (OUHSC, est. 1971) is a public institution and a branch campus of the University of Oklahoma (est. 1890). It serves students at two campuses and online, delivering top-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 70 programs primarily in Health Sciences.
OUHSC has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in nutrition-related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences (blended = courses online and on-campus). This is a 34-credit (minimum) online master’s degree program with thesis and non-thesis track options. It does not prepare students for certification as a registered dietitian (RD) and is more suitable for individuals seeking nutrition knowledge for application in other careers. Sample online courses include: Energy Nutrients; Non-energy Nutrients; Biostatistics. Alternatives: an Master of Arts (MA) in Dietetics (for those seeking certification as an RD/ RDN) is offered on-campus only and can be earned concurrently with the MS in Nutritional Sciences.
- In-state: $7,081 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $21,740 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: (OU awards) U.S. News & World Report (Best Online Graduate Business Programs – Excluding MBA; Best Online Graduate Business Programs for Veterans – Excluding MBA)
- Notable alumni: (OU alumni) award-winning actor Ed Harris; actress Olivia Munn (X-Men: Apocalypse) ; NBA basketballer Blake Griffin (Detroit Pistons)
- #students: 3,139
- grads: 2,353
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
4. Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas

Texas Woman’s University (TWU, est. 1901) is a public institution, serving students at three campuses and online. While historically a women’s institution, it has been coed since 1994, although it is a member of the Women’s College Coalition.
TWU offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one low cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in nutrition-related topics: an economical Master of Science in Nutrition (blended = online + classroom). This is a 30- or 36-credit online master’s degree program expected to take a minimum of one year and prepares students for the Registered Dietitian/ Nutritionist national certification exam – provided students hold a nutrition-related bachelor’s degree and take the Dietetic Internship. Students have a choice of thesis (30cr) or non-thesis (36cr coursework only) track options, with 100% online studies available at either the Denton or Houston campus. The Denton campus has a 100% pass rate for the RDN certification exam, while Houston has a 97% pass rate. Sample courses include: Nutrition and Human Metabolism; Human Nutrition in Disease. Alternatives: TWU has an on-campus-only Master of Science in Exercise and Sports Nutrition.
- In-state: $7,072 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $14,542 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Olympic gold medalists Louise Ritter (women’s high jump) and Carly Patterson (women’s gymnastics); actress Jill Marie Jones (TV series Girlfriends)
- #students: 15,473
- grads: 5,163
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
3. North Dakota State University
Fargo, North Dakota

North Dakota State University (NDSU, est. 1890) is a public institution and a member of the North Dakota University System. It is a top 100 public research university serving students on two campuses, several learning centers, and online.
NDSU offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It comes in third in our ranking of the most affordable online degrees in nutrition-related topics and has one relevant program: a cheap Master of Science in Dietetics. It is a 36-credit online master’s degree program aimed at registered dietitians (or eligible for RDN exam) who may be interested in pursuing a doctoral degree and will be conducting advanced practice in nutrition. It is offered through a multi-institution collaboration (“GPIDEA”; also see U of Colorado entry in this article). As per GPIDEA official site, sample elective course topics include nutrition, food science, food service management, etc. Students can choose between a thesis, comprehensive paper or a project.
- In-state: $6,802 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $16,477 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine (Best Value Colleges); Money Magazine; U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Top Public Schools); Victory Media (Military Friendly School 2019-20 Silver; Spouse Friendly 2019-20); Washington Monthly
- Notable alumni: Over a dozen current and former NFL football players
- #students: 14,358
- grads: 2,374
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
2. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV, est. 2013) is a public institution and a member of the University of Texas System. It is one of the largest Hispanic-majority universities by enrollment, and is formed from a merger of two older U of Texas institutions.
UTRGV offers cheap bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It places in second in our ranking of the most affordable online degrees in nutrition-related topics and has one relevant program: a best-value Master of Science in Health Sciences (MSHS) with a concentration in Nutrition. This is a 36-credit online master’s program expected to take at least 12 months (courses are seven weeks each). It builds knowledge of diseases associated with nutrition, prevention of obesity, health maintenance, eating disorders, etc. Completion of this MSHS does not prepare students for the Registered Dietitian certification exam. Rather, career opportunities may include a nutrition-related department manager role in a nursing home, healthcare facility, hospital or rehabilitation center. Sample concentration courses include: Nutrition Throughout the Life Cycle; Prevention and Treatment of Obesity; Integrative Nutrition.
- In-state: $6,719 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $14,189 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: Forbes Magazine; Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine; Money Magazine (Best Colleges for Your Money); U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Online Programs); White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics
- Notable alumni: Olympic Gold Medalist and NBA basketballer Lucious Jackson
- #students: 27,809
- grads: 3,589
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
1. Arizona State University-Skysong
Scottsdale, Arizona

Arizona State University (ASU, est. 1885) is a public institution governed by the Arizona Board of Regents. Some graduate and distance programs are offered through the Skysong innovation center, which also hosts research projects. ASU itself has earned accolades that include being #1 for innovation, top STEM programs, top scholars and faculty.
ASU offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It ranks first in our ranking of the most affordable online degrees in nutrition-related topics and has two relevant programs:
- Master of Science in Medical Nutrition (MSMN)
- MS in Nutritional Science (MSNS) with an emphasis in Dietetics
Both are 30-credit online master’s degree programs. The MSMN is targeted at individuals wanting knowledge of lifestyle-related chronic diseases, possibly to gain an advantage when later applying to medical, dental or veterinary school, or physician assistant programs. Sample online master’s courses include: Food and Nutrition Across the Lifespan; Medical Nutrition in the Care and Prevention of Disease
The MSNS is a non-thesis program only available to Registered Dietitians (1+ years experience). It builds knowledge of nutrition as well as project management, critical inquiry, problem solving, etc. Sample elective courses include: Pediatric Nutrition; Ethics and Policy of American Diets; Evidenced-Based Nutrition.
- In-state: $6,342 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Out-of-state: $6,342 (avg. grad tuition+fees)
- Awards from: U.S. News & World Report (National Universities; Best Colleges for Veterans; #1 Most Innovative; Best Graduate Education)
- Notable alumni: Fashion entrepreneur Kate Spade; Jimmy Kimmel, host of Jimmy Kimmel Live!; actors Nick Nolte and David Spade; singer Linda Ronstadt
- #students: 31,702
- grads: 7,356
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
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