Increased attention on disease prevention through better dietary habits has heightened the demand for skilled nutrition professionals. In response, the College of Professional Studies has developed an online Master of Science in Applied Nutrition degree program. Designed to build on your existing clinical knowledge, this advanced program is open to individuals who hold undergraduate degrees in health science, dietetics, or a related area.
The program provides you with the opportunity to concentrate in one of four specialty areas:
- Obesity and Nutritional Health
- Nutrition Education
- Nutrition and Fitness
- Business and Entrepreneurship in Nutrition.
Led by real-world practitioners, including dietitians, exercise scientists, and clinical psychologists, this innovative nutrition degree provides you with a solid grounding in nutrition, metabolism, disease prevention, health promotion, and clinical behavior. Complementing the core nutrition courses is the college’s renowned nutrition practicum that allows you to work directly with registered dietitians, fitness specialists, as well as other health professionals. After completing this degree, you will emerge with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the field of nutrition. (Disclaimer: this is not a registered dietitian program, and a verification statement is not provided upon completion of the program.)
More Details
Unique Features
- Choose from four degree concentrations
- Work directly with registered dietitians, fitness specialists, as well as other health professionals
- Online format allows working health professionals to advance their career while honing their knowledge and skills
- On average, students can complete this degree in less than two years
Program Objectives
By taking part in this highly focused nutrition degree program, you will increase your knowledge and aptitude through:
- Translating theory and current research into practice
- Examining the metabolism, physiological actions, and interrelationships of carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water
- Exploring the application of nutrition principles in the treatment and prevention of diseases
- Studying varying techniques and methods used in nutritional research
- Investigating theories to facilitate the adoption of healthy behaviors
- Recognizing the complex factors that influence nutritional practices
Career Outlook
Heightened interest in health, wellness, and disease prevention has created more career options for nutrition professionals. To that end, according to the American Dietetic Association, demand for nutritional counseling, treatment, and education is on the rise—a result of greater emphasis on diet and nutrition, as well as a growing population that is living longer.
Prerequisite Coursework
Applicants must have completed the following:
- Two courses in chemistry
- Two courses in biology
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II
- General nutrition (or related) course

