Washington Nutrition Programs & Online Degrees

Washington nutrition degree programs take four years for most bachelor’s options and about two years for graduate programs, though some coordinated or accelerated master’s tracks can be completed in as little as three to five semesters.

In-state tuition ranges from about $7,400 to $11,000 per year for bachelor’s programs and $10,300 to $17,300 annually for graduate programs, with higher rates for non-residents. Many programs feature small class sizes, strong faculty mentorship, industry partnerships, and hands-on learning opportunities to prepare graduates for clinical, community, research, and public health nutrition careers.

Bachelor’s degrees, such as Central Washington University’s ACEND-accredited Dietetics Specialization, provide the academic and practical foundation for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists and other nutrition-focused roles.

Master’s programs at Washington State University and Central Washington University offer advanced training in nutrition science, dietetics, and exercise physiology, often integrating extensive supervised practice hours and research projects.

Review our top ranked programs below.

2027 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Washington

Choosing the right nutrition degree program in Washington can feel overwhelming. We have done the heavy lifting to identify the best options across the state. Our rankings at nutritiondegrees.org focus on key factors like curriculum quality, faculty expertise, and career support. Whether you want to become a registered dietitian or pursue a broader nutrition science path, these programs stand out for their value and student success. To understand exactly how we evaluate each school, check out our methodology page: https://www.nutritiondegrees.org/about-us/#ranking. Start your search with confidence and find the program that fits your goals.

#1

Central Washington University

Ellensburg, WA - Public 4-Year - cwu.edu

Bachelor's - Food Science and Nutrition (Dietetics Specialization)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Dietetics Specialization at Central Washington University is an ACEND-accredited pathway within the Food Science and Nutrition BS. It is one of only three such programs in Washington, preparing graduates to sit for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist exam. Coursework covers macro/micronutrients, medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and counseling. Students learn in a new Health Sciences building with state-of-the-art simulators, and benefit from small classes and personalized mentoring. The curriculum includes hands-on labs and community partnerships that bolster internship placement. Graduates can pursue careers as clinical dietitians, community nutritionists, or food service managers. Financial aid is available. This program provides the credentials and practical experience needed in the expanding nutrition field.

• ACEND accredited
• Prepares for Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam
• Financial aid available
• One of only three ACEND-accredited programs in state
• Experienced faculty in dietetics
• Community partnerships for internships
• Small class sizes with personalized mentoring
• More than 20 specialized courses
• New Health Sciences building with advanced simulators
• Career paths: Clinical Dietitian, Community Nutritionist

Bachelor's - Food Science and Nutrition (Foods and Nutrition Specialization)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Foods and Nutrition Specialization at Central Washington University is a Bachelor of Science program exploring the science behind food, from ingredient functionality to production and innovation. Core studies include medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, experimental foods, and food service management. Students gain practical skills in four specialized labs focused on food science, nutrition, and culinary arts. Small classes ensure personalized mentoring from nationally recognized faculty. Experiential learning opportunities include community outreach and food service management. Graduates are equipped for roles as food product developers, quality assurance specialists, nutrition educators, or food safety managers. The program bridges nutrition, food, and public health, preparing students to influence the future of food. Financial aid and industry connections for internships are available.

• Financial aid available
• Industry connections for internships and jobs
• Careers in food product development and quality assurance
• Experiential learning in community outreach and food service
• Hands-on experience in four specialized labs
• Nationally recognized faculty in food science
• Career: Food Product Developer

Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition

Campus Based - Visit Website

Central Washington University's Master of Science in Nutrition delivers advanced training in nutritional science, with coursework in micronutrient metabolism, nutritional biochemistry, and medical nutrition therapy. Students may choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks, tailoring the degree toward research, clinical practice, or industry. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and community outreach, and features hands-on research in four specialized labs and more than 100 community partnerships. Graduates are prepared for careers as clinical or sports dietitians, research dietitians, or doctoral study. With small classes, personalized mentorship, and a new Health Sciences building equipped with simulation labs, the learning environment is distinctive. The next application deadline is January 1, 2026. Financial aid is available.

• Apply by 2026-01-01
• Thesis or capstone option
• Financial aid available
• Access four specialized research labs
• Benefit from over 100 community partnerships
• Develop skills in evidence-based practice
• Participate in community outreach programs
• Become a registered dietitian
• Featuring an ambulance simulator

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#2

Washington State University

Pullman, WA - Public 4-Year - wsu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Washington State University's two-year Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology offers a thesis-based curriculum integrating advanced human nutrition and exercise physiology. Students select from three tracks—human nutrition, exercise physiology, or combined—and conduct research with faculty mentors in genetics, gut microbiome, and spatial epidemiology. The 30-credit program includes a graduate seminar series and electives, with access to specialized facilities like the Food Lab, Nutrition and Gut Microbiome Lab, and Washington State Twin Registry. Graduates pursue doctoral studies or careers in healthcare, public health, nonprofits, and academia. Financial aid and scholarships are available. Applicants should verify whether an entrance exam such as the GRE is required for admission.

• 3 concentration options
• 2-Year program
• 30 total credit hours
• Thesis required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Research team: Washington State Twin Registry
• Research lab: Food Lab
• Research lab: Nutrition and Gut Microbiome Lab
• Research lab: Community Health and Spatial Epidemiology Lab

Master's - Master of Science Coordinated Program in Dietetics, Nutrition and Exercise Physiology

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science Coordinated Program in Dietetics, Nutrition and Exercise Physiology (MS CPD) at Washington State University blends graduate dietetics education with exercise physiology. This ACEND-accredited program requires 35 credit hours and includes over 1,020 hours of supervised practice in hospitals, clinics, schools, and fitness centers across Washington and Idaho. Coursework covers medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, food service management, and biochemistry. Graduates are prepared for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential and the ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist exam. With 100% job placement and a >90% exam pass rate, careers include acute care, cardiopulmonary rehab, university athletics, and public health. Some distance learning options are available. Candidates should check if an entrance exam (e.g., GRE) is part of admissions.

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited
• 35 total credit hours
• 100% job placement rate
• 1020 clinical hours
• Prepares for Registration Examination for Dietetics
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Interprofessional nutrition and exercise focus
• Prepares for RDN credential
• Prepares for ACSM-EP credential

Show 1 More Programs ˅

#3

Bastyr University

Kenmore, WA - Private 4-year - bastyr.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Food, and Exercise

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Food, and Exercise at Bastyr University blends whole-foods nutrition with exercise science on a 51-acre wooded campus in Kenmore, Washington. The curriculum covers organic chemistry, anatomy, biochemistry, exercise physiology, sports nutrition, and community nutrition. Students progress as a cohort, with transfer students finishing in two years of full-time study. A practicum and eligibility for ACSM-EP and CSCS certifications prepare graduates for roles as strength coaches, clinical nutritionists, corporate wellness directors, or personal trainers. The program also supports progression into graduate studies in exercise science, nutrition, or medicine. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and faculty advising guides next steps. Standardized entrance exam requirements (ACT/SAT) are not specified for admission.

• 2-Year program
• Cohort-based structure
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Graduates eligible for ACSM-EP and CSCS certifications
• Curriculum integrates whole foods nutrition and exercise science
• 51-acre wooded campus near Seattle
• Prepares for graduate programs in exercise science, nutrition

*Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2025. National Center for Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

How to Choose the Right School for You

Selecting the right nutrition program is crucial for your career success. With 2 major universities in Washington offering comprehensive nutrition programs, use this guide to identify the program that best matches your goals, learning style, and circumstances.

Start with Your Career Goals

Want to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)?

• Washington State University – ACEND-accredited Master of Science Coordinated Program in Dietetics with 100% job placement rate and 1,020 supervised practice hours
• Central Washington University – ACEND-accredited Dietetics Specialization preparing for RDN credential

Interested in nutrition and exercise physiology integration?

• Washington State University – Unique MS in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology with three specialized tracks
• WSU – Coordinated Program integrating exercise physiology with nutrition

Planning to pursue doctoral studies or research careers?

• Washington State University – Research-focused MS program preparing for advanced studies
• Central Washington University – MS in Nutrition with thesis track and specialized research labs

Want to work in food science and technology?

• Central Washington University – Foods and Nutrition Specialization with food technology and product development focus

Interested in community nutrition and public health?

• Central Washington University – Over 100 community partnerships for practical experience
• Washington State University – Focus on social determinants of health and disease prevention

Consider Your Educational Background

Ready for undergraduate study?

• Central Washington University – Food Science and Nutrition bachelor’s with two specializations (Dietetics or Foods and Nutrition)

Already have a bachelor’s degree? Graduate options:

• Washington State University – MS in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology (30 credits, 2 years)
• Washington State University – MS Coordinated Program in Dietetics (35 credits, 3-5 semesters)
• Central Washington University – MS in Nutrition with thesis and non-thesis tracks

Want integrated graduate pathway to RDN?

• Washington State University – Coordinated Program eliminates separate internship application process

Learning Format Preferences

Want traditional campus experience? Both universities offer campus-based programs with:

• Washington State University – Research university environment in Pullman
• Central Washington University – Smaller university atmosphere in Ellensburg with small class sizes

Prefer hands-on learning?

• Central Washington University – Hands-on laboratory experiences and industry connections
• Washington State University – 1,020 hours of supervised practice in coordinated program

Value personalized attention?

• Central Washington University – Small class sizes and personalized academic pathways
• Both universities – Expert faculty mentorship opportunities

Financial Considerations

Public university advantages:

• Both are public universities offering reasonable tuition for Washington residents
• Graduate assistantships and research opportunities may be available

Consider program outcomes:

• Washington State University – 100% job placement rate for coordinated program graduates
• High first-time RDN exam pass rates at both institutions

Geographic and Practical Factors

Location preferences:

• Pullman: Washington State University – University town in eastern Washington, research-focused environment
• Ellensburg: Central Washington University – Central Washington location, smaller community with strong local partnerships

Practical experience opportunities:

• WSU – Statewide practice placements for coordinated program
• CWU – Over 100 community partnerships for hands-on experience
• Both – Strong industry and healthcare connections throughout Washington state

Special Program Features

Unique program advantages:

• WSU – Only program integrating nutrition and exercise physiology at graduate level
• WSU – Research in cutting-edge topics like gut microbiome and genetic influences on wellness
• CWU – Exceptional community partnership network (100+ organizations)
• CWU – Nationally recognized faculty with industry connections

Research opportunities:

• WSU – Thesis research projects under expert faculty supervision
• CWU – Specialized research laboratories and evidence-based practice focus
• Both – Opportunities for publication and conference presentations

Specialized tracks and flexibility:

• WSU – Three specialized tracks: human nutrition, exercise physiology, or combination
• CWU – Flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks for personalized academic exploration
• CWU – Strategic elective selections for career customization

Program Requirements and Competitiveness

Undergraduate admission:

• CWU – ACEND-accredited programs with competitive admission for dietetics specialization

Graduate admission:

• WSU – Competitive admission with January 31 deadline for MS programs
• CWU – Flexible admission for thesis and non-thesis tracks

Academic requirements:

• Strong science background preferred for both institutions
• Research experience beneficial for graduate programs

Program Outcomes and Success Rates

Outstanding outcomes:

• WSU Coordinated Program – 100% job placement rate
• WSU – High first-time RDN exam pass rates
• CWU – Strong preparation for diverse career trajectories

Career preparation:

• WSU – Healthcare, public health, academia, and research careers
• CWU – Clinical nutrition, research, food technology, and interdisciplinary health sectors

Washington-Specific Advantages

State characteristics:

• Strong healthcare systems throughout Washington provide excellent clinical opportunities
• Technology industry presence creates opportunities for nutrition-tech innovation
• Agricultural diversity supports understanding of food systems and sustainability
• Research universities with strong science programs

Regional focus:

• Pacific Northwest health challenges – programs address regional nutrition needs
• Sustainability emphasis – both programs integrate environmental considerations
• Diverse populations – preparation for culturally competent nutrition practice

Making Your Decision

Consider your academic interests:

Exercise and Nutrition Integration:

• Washington State University – Unique combination of nutrition and exercise physiology

Food Science Focus:

• Central Washington University – Strong food technology and product development emphasis

Research Emphasis:

• WSU – Major research university with cutting-edge nutrition science
• CWU – Smaller scale but focused research opportunities

Community Engagement:

• CWU – Exceptional community partnership network
• WSU – Statewide reach and diverse practice settings

Evaluate your career timeline:

• Want immediate RDN pathway? WSU’s Coordinated Program
• Need undergraduate preparation? CWU’s bachelor’s programs
• Seeking research experience? Both offer excellent graduate research opportunities

Consider your learning style:

• Prefer large research university? Washington State University
• Want smaller, personalized environment? Central Washington University
• Value extensive community connections? CWU’s 100+ partnerships
• Interested in exercise integration? WSU’s unique combined approach

Geographic preferences:

• Eastern Washington (Pullman) – WSU’s research university environment
• Central Washington (Ellensburg) – CWU’s community-focused approach

Program timing considerations:

• WSU – Competitive January 31 deadline for graduate programs
• CWU – More flexible admission timelines

Washington offers excellent nutrition education through two strong public universities with complementary strengths. WSU provides a major research university experience with unique exercise physiology integration, while CWU offers a more intimate educational environment with exceptional community partnerships. Both provide pathways to successful nutrition careers with strong regional connections and excellent outcomes.