Tennessee Nutrition Programs & Online Degrees

Lipscomb University's Master of Science in Nutrition, designed for current registered dietitians, offers a flexible 33-credit curriculum that can be completed online or on campus. This ACEND-accredited program emphasizes advanced nutrition science, critical thinking, and research skills, with coursework across clinical, community, and wellness settings. Students develop competencies in professional writing, presentations, and goal-setting, preparing for leadership roles as dietitians, nutritionists, food scientists, or health coaches. With a 95% RD exam pass rate and 100% graduation rate, the program benefits from 38+ health and community partnerships. Admissions are test-optional, meaning no GRE or entrance exam is required. Prerequisites are required, and financial aid is available. The faith-based environment provides supportive, individually paced learning for career advancement.

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics accredited
• Test optional
• $1,065 per credit
• 33 total credit hours
• 95% licensure pass rate
• Prerequisite courses required
• $50 application fee
• Prepares for RD exam
• Financial aid available
• 100% graduation rate

Lipscomb's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship with a concentration in Medical Nutrition Therapy prepares students to become registered dietitian nutritionists. This five-semester, cohort-based hybrid program combines online/on-campus coursework in Year 1 with intensive in-person clinical rotations in Year 2, including 8-10 week concentration rotations. Students gain 1,000+ experiential hours, covering evidence-based practice, community service, and professional ethics. With ACEND accreditation, a 95% RD exam pass rate, and 100% graduation rate, graduates pursue careers in clinical dietetics, outpatient care, wellness coaching, or food service management. The small cohort of 20 interns benefits from 38+ community partnerships. No entrance exam is required, as the program is test-optional. Prerequisites and a 3.0 GPA are required.

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics accredited
• 3 concentration options
• Test optional
• $1,065 per credit
• 5-Semester program
• Starts fall
• 95% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours

The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship at Lipscomb University offers a Health Promotion and Wellness concentration, blending online didactic coursework with on-campus experiential rotations in Middle Tennessee. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion strategies across clinical, community, and wellness settings, with over 1,000 hours of supervised practice and 8-10 week specialization rotations. Career paths include dietitian, health coach, and community nutritionist. The program boasts a 95% RD exam pass rate, 100% graduation rate, and ACEND accreditation. A preselect option is available for Lipscomb DPD graduates. While GRE scores are accepted, the program is test-optional, so an entrance exam is not required. With small cohorts and strong community partnerships, this program offers a supportive, career-focused experience.

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics accredited
• 3 concentration options
• Exams: GRE
• Test optional
• $1,065 per credit
• 5-Semester program
• Full-time enrollment
• Starts fall
• 95% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure

Lipscomb University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship with a Sports Nutrition concentration prepares students to help athletes and active individuals optimize performance through nutrition. The hybrid program pairs online didactic coursework with hands-on campus learning in Nashville. Students study nutrient timing, exercise physiology, and sports nutrition assessment while completing 1,000+ clinical hours in hospitals, clinics, and sports settings. Faculty include a Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, offering real-world mentorship. ACEND-accredited, the program prepares graduates for the RD exam, with a 95% pass rate over five years. No entrance exam is required. Graduates pursue careers as sports dietitians, wellness coaches, or clinical nutrition specialists. The full-time, cohort model spans five semesters, fostering lasting professional connections.

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics accredited
• 3 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE
• Test optional
• $1,065 per credit
• 5-Semester program
• Complete in five semesters
• Full-time enrollment
• Starts fall

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers a Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics. This ACEND-accredited program, delivered in a hybrid format, prepares students to become registered dietitian nutritionists. UTK undergraduates can earn both bachelor's and master's degrees in five years through an accelerated track, while external applicants typically complete the program in two years. The curriculum integrates coursework with hands-on practicum experiences, including clinical placements at Cherokee Health System clinics. Students gain expertise in pediatrics, oncology, and critical care. The program emphasizes leadership through mentoring, research via presentations, and interprofessional learning like the AHEC Scholar program. Graduates are prepared for clinical practice in healthcare settings, the primary employer of RDNs. Entrance exam requirements are not indicated.

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited
• 1-Year program
• Prerequisite courses required
• Financial aid available
• Five-year BS/MS accelerated program
• Hands-on learning with practicum
• Clinical placements at Cherokee Health
• Specialties: pediatrics, oncology, more
• Leadership development through mentoring
• Research presentations at professional level

The Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Biomedical Nutrition Science at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is a research-intensive, campus-based program. The curriculum explores the molecular and cellular basis of nutrition-related diseases, including metabolic pathways, gene-nutrient interactions, and the microbiome. Students gain hands-on lab skills in physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, with emphasis on translational research using animal models to study cancer, obesity, and diabetes. Housed in the state-of-the-art Mossman building, the program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration with departments like Microbiology and Biochemistry. Learning activities include journal clubs, seminars, and mentoring, plus opportunities to present at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals. This program builds a strong foundation in nutritional science research, preparing graduates for careers in research, academia, industry, and applied health. Entrance exam requirements are not mentioned.

• Thesis required
• Research in cancer, obesity, diabetes
• Newest science building on campus
• Interdisciplinary collaborations with BCMB
• Develop lab skills in physiology and biochemistry
• Present at national and international conferences
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals

Middle Tennessee State University's campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science with a concentration in Nutrition and Wellness equips students to guide diverse populations toward healthier food choices. The curriculum covers community nutrition, food safety, and wellness education, blending nutritional science with practical strategies. Accredited by AAFCS, the program prepares graduates for the Certified Nutrition and Wellness Educator (CNWE) exam. Career opportunities include nutritionist, health educator, fitness trainer, and community nutrition specialist, with employers ranging from hospitals and public health departments to Cracker Barrel and Sodexo. Students benefit from dedicated faculty, including registered dietitians, and career development support. The program description does not specify ACT/SAT entrance requirements.

• AAFCS accredited
• 5 concentration options
• Prepares for Nutrition and Wellness Educator Certification
• Careers: clinical dietitian, nutritionist, fitness trainer
• On ground classes
• Career Development Center support
• Faculty include registered dietitians
• Employer: Cracker Barrel
• Employer: Sodexo

Middle Tennessee State University offers an online Master of Professional Studies with a concentration in Leadership in Nutrition for working professionals seeking career advancement without interruption. This 30-credit program requires no entrance exam, and dietetic interns can receive six free credit hours, reducing the total to 24. The curriculum focuses on nutrition leadership and meets ACEND requirements for the CDR exam, enabling graduates to pursue roles as registered dietitians, extension educators, and WIC nutritionists. Affordable tuition and scholarships are available, and in-state rates apply through the Academic Common Market. Ideal for extension agents, dietetic interns, and RDNs, this flexible online program provides advanced leadership skills for nutrition and food systems.

• No entrance exam required
• 30 total credit hours
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• 100% online with flexible schedule
• Six free credit hours for interns
• Reduced to 24 credits for interns
• Meets ACEND master's requirement
• Eligible to sit for CDR exam
• In-state rates for Academic Common Market

The University of Memphis offers a 12-month ACEND-accredited MS in Nutrition combined with a dietetic internship and residency program. This hybrid format blends online coursework with one day per week of in-person classes, plus over 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience at Memphis-area healthcare sites. Students choose from six specialty tracks: adult, pediatrics, sports, community, corporate wellness, collegiate nutrition, or clinical nutrition. The 39-credit curriculum includes an applied capstone project and prepares graduates for RDN credentialing and licensure in most states. The program begins in late May and is designed for entry-level practice. Admission requirements do not list a GRE or other entrance exam.

• ACEND accredited
• 6 concentration options
• 12-Month program
• 39 total credit hours
• Starts summer
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Prepares for RDN credentialing exam
• Hybrid online and in-person courses
• Program begins in late May

For students aiming to specialize in child nutrition, the University of Memphis offers an MS in Nutrition with a dietetic internship and a pediatrics concentration. This ACEND-accredited, 12-month, 39-credit hybrid program combines online and in-person instruction with more than 1,000 hours of supervised practice. Core rotations emphasize adult nutrition, while the pediatrics elective provides focused training in pediatric hospitals, community health, and private practice. An applied capstone project is required. Graduates earn a master's degree, a dietetic internship verification statement, and eligibility for the RDN exam. The program starts each May and does not specify any entrance exam requirement for admission.

• ACEND accredited
• 6 concentration options
• 12-Month program
• 39 total credit hours
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Combined MS and dietetic internship
• Hybrid online and in-person courses
• Prepares for RDN credential
• Program starts in late May

The University of Memphis's MS in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship program features an elective track in sports nutrition. This ACEND-accredited, 12-month, 39-credit-hour hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person sessions and over 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning at clinical and community sites. The curriculum covers advanced nutrition science, medical nutrition therapy, and sport-specific strategies, preparing graduates for careers in sports medicine, collegiate athletics, and corporate wellness. An applied capstone project allows customization. Completion confers a master's degree and dietetic internship verification, making graduates eligible for the RDN exam. The program doesn't list a GRE or other entrance exam requirement.

• ACEND accredited
• 6 concentration options
• 12-Month program
• 39 total credit hours
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Prepares for RDN exam
• Hybrid online and in-person format
• ACEND accredited through 2031
• Located in Memphis, Tennessee

Tennessee Technological University's Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology with a concentration in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics. The curriculum integrates food science, nutrition, chemistry, and human ecology, preparing students for supervised practice and the CDR credentialing exam. Hands-on experiences occur in food preparation labs and off-campus facilities. Graduates pursue careers as registered dietitian nutritionists, community health specialists, or food service managers. Admission to upper-division coursework requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, and the program follows a structured four-year plan. With a one-year CDR exam pass rate of at least 80%, students are well-prepared for advanced study or entry-level positions. The on-campus experience includes lab coats and Academy membership.

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited
• 80% licensure pass rate
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prepares for CDR credentialing exam
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Academy membership required
• Lab coat required for courses
• Transportation costs may apply
• DICAS application fee $50

Tennessee Tech offers an online Master of Science in Community Health and Nutrition designed for working professionals. This 22-month program provides two pathways: an ACEND-accredited experiential route for those seeking RDN credentialing, and a degree-only track for community health practitioners. Coursework focuses on assessing nutritional needs, developing community health initiatives, and promoting wellness in rural settings. Students complete 12 practicum hours for the dietetic pathway. Graduates are equipped for roles such as community health educators, nutrition program coordinators, or clinical dietitians upon fulfilling RDN requirements. The flexible online format serves both aspiring dietitians and current professionals aiming to advance in the growing field of community health and nutrition.

• 2 concentration options
• 22-Month program
• Fully online program
• ACEND-accredited dietetic pathway
• 12 practicum hours for RDN
• Focus on rural community health
• Serves two student audiences

East Tennessee State University's BS in Nutrition with a Dietetics concentration is ACEND-accredited and designed for future registered dietitian nutritionists. Over four years and 94 credit hours, coursework spans clinical nutrition, food systems, and community nutrition, with hands-on learning in clinics and schools. Graduates receive a DPD Verification Statement, qualifying them for dietetic internships or the combined MS and internship pathway. Admission requires a 2.8 GPA and prerequisite science coursework; ACT/SAT scores are not listed among requirements. Career options include clinical dietetics, public health, and food service management. The program also prepares students for CDR credentialing and offers financial aid, scholarships, and credit for prior learning.

• ACEND accredited
• 4-Year program
• 94 total credit hours
• 2.8 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for CDR credentialing exam
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Community-engaged learning
• DPD Verification Statement issued

ETSU's Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition is an ACEND-accredited, four-semester program integrating advanced study with a dietetic internship. Students complete 40 credits and 1,000 supervised practice hours, covering medical nutrition therapy, maternal-child nutrition, and counseling. Graduates qualify for the RDN exam and roles as clinical dietitians or educators. The curriculum offers a standard track and an advanced standing option for already-credentialed professionals, plus an optional thesis. Interprofessional education is embedded. Admission requires a DPD background, 3.0 GPA, three recommendation letters, and prerequisite courses; no entrance exam is specified. The program starts in fall, spring, or summer.

• ACEND accredited
• 4-Semester program
• 40 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required
• Thesis required
• 1000 supervised practice hours

Dyersburg State Community College's Associate of Science in Nutrition & Food Science serves as a Tennessee Transfer Pathway, ensuring credits transfer smoothly to four-year public institutions. The curriculum introduces human nutrition, food safety, and dietary guidelines, complemented by health sciences coursework. Students preparing for dietetics, food science, or public health careers gain a practical foundation applicable to clinical, community, or food service settings. The School of Health Sciences emphasizes nutrition's role in disease prevention and wellness. Campus-based instruction supports hands-on learning, while the college's military-friendly designation accommodates service members. This affordable path removes transfer hurdles for Tennessee students aiming to become registered dietitians or nutrition professionals.

• Tennessee Transfer Pathway
• Associate of Science degree

Pellissippi State Community College’s Associate of Science in Nutrition and Food Science provides a strong foundation for a bachelor’s degree through a guaranteed transfer pathway. The 60-61 credit curriculum blends general education with science courses such as human anatomy, general chemistry, and principles of nutrition, plus math, humanities, and social sciences. All credits apply directly to a related four-year program, ensuring admission to any Tennessee public university. Students receive personalized support from small classes and academic advisors while developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Post-transfer career options include dietetics, food science, public health, and wellness coaching. This military-friendly program features a common core curriculum with the Tennessee Board of Regents.

• Guaranteed transfer to TN public universities
• Admission guaranteed to all TN public universities
• Academic advisor assigned
• Total credits: 60-61
• All credits apply to bachelor's degree
• Common core curriculum with TBR

Nashville State Community College offers an Associate of Science in Nutrition and Food Science designed for seamless transfer to Tennessee public universities via the Tennessee Transfer Pathway, guaranteeing admission. The 61-credit curriculum blends general education with core nutrition, anatomy/physiology, and chemistry courses, emphasizing critical thinking, writing, and communication. This pathway prepares students for upper-division studies leading to careers as registered dietitians, nutritionists, or food scientists. Financial aid is available, and a First Year Experience course supports academic success. With on-campus instruction and a supportive environment, graduates build a strong foundation for bachelor’s degree completion in dietetics, food science, or related health fields.

• 61 total credit hours
• Financial aid available
• Tennessee Transfer Pathway
• First Year Experience course
• Develops critical thinking skills
• Communication skills focus

At Southwest Tennessee Community College, the A.S. in Nutrition and Food Science Emphasis functions as a Tennessee Transfer Pathway, offering the first two years of a traditional four-year dietetics curriculum. Spanning 60 credit hours, the program integrates anatomy and physiology, general chemistry, precalculus algebra, statistics, and nutrition science, alongside coursework in psychology, sociology, communications, and humanities. This mix builds a comprehensive academic base. Graduates are positioned to transfer to any four-year university dietetics program in Tennessee. Small classes and personalized advising are available at every Southwest campus. Successful completion equips students to continue toward registered dietitian status, nutrition education, or food science roles, while efficiently satisfying general education and major prerequisites.

• 60 total credit hours
• First two years of dietetics
• Tennessee Transfer pathway
• All Southwest locations