Sports nutrition represents one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing specializations within nutrition science, focusing on optimizing athletic performance through evidence-based dietary strategies. These programs prepare professionals to work with athletes at all levels, from recreational fitness enthusiasts to elite Olympic competitors, addressing unique nutritional needs for training, competition, and recovery.
Unlike general nutrition programs, sports nutrition concentrations emphasize exercise physiology, performance optimization, hydration strategies, supplement evaluation, and the physiological demands of different sports. Graduates work as sports dietitians with professional teams, in collegiate athletics, fitness centers, private practice, and sports nutrition consulting.
This guide analyzes the top-ranked sports nutrition programs across bachelor’s and master’s levels, examining their unique approaches, accreditation status, hands-on experience opportunities, and career preparation focus to help you identify the program that matches your athletic and professional goals.
2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs for sports
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University's Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Sports Nutrition is a campus-based program designed to equip students for roles in enhancing athletic performance through nutrition. It offers a curriculum rich in nutritional genomics, physiology, and biochemistry, with options for thesis or non-thesis tracks. Specialized electives such as Sports Nutrition and Advanced Physiology of Exercise provide targeted knowledge. Faculty expertise in areas like diabetes and obesity research supports practical applications for athlete health. The program requires a bachelor's degree for admission, but does not mandate an entrance exam, focusing instead on academic preparation and research opportunities.
- Campus-based program
- Thesis or non-thesis options
- Focus on sports nutrition
- Expertise in diabetes, obesity
- Nutritional genomics focus
- 30-33 credit hours
- 7000-8000 level courses
- Electives for specialization
- Faculty research opportunities
- Practical athletic performance skills
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's Master of Science in Nutrition with a Sports Nutrition concentration is a 30-credit hybrid program that can be completed in as little as one year. It covers key areas like genetic applications and plant-based eating patterns, preparing graduates for roles in sports and fitness nutrition. The program meets Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) credential requirements and offers flexible admission deadlines in August, December, and April. As a master's level program, it requires transcripts and an application fee, but no specific entrance exam is mentioned as required.
- Hybrid learning model
- 30 credits total
- Complete in one year
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- Meets CNS credential requirements
- Flexible admission deadlines
- Covers genetic applications
- Plant-based eating patterns
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Online and hybrid options
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - liberty.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Human Performance – Nutrition
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Liberty University's Master of Science in Human Performance with a concentration in Sports Nutrition is a hybrid program combining online coursework with on-campus intensives, ideal for working professionals. It focuses on enhancing athletic performance through nutrition, covering exercise physiology and chronic disease management. No entrance exam is required for admission, which necessitates a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA. The 35-credit program allows up to 50% credit transfers and offers military tuition discounts, preparing graduates for roles as nutrition specialists or wellness coaches.
- 35 credit hours.
- Hybrid program format.
- Concentration in Sports Nutrition.
- Transfer up to 50% credits.
- No standardized testing for admission.
- Military tuition discount available.
- Hands-on campus intensives.
- Thesis or internship option.
- Covers exercise physiology.
- Focus on chronic disease management.
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu
Master's - Coordinated Master's Program in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Utah's Coordinated Master's Program in Nutrition and Dietetics specializes in Sports Nutrition, offering a two-year, campus-based curriculum that integrates coursework with supervised practice, accredited by ACEND. It requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisites for admission, with no entrance exam needed as it is a master's level program focused on hands-on experience and evidence-based practices. Graduates benefit from a high RDN exam pass rate of 91.4%, preparing them for diverse roles in sports nutrition with an emphasis on cultural humility and leadership development.
- Two-year program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- ACEND accredited.
- High RDN exam pass rate.
- Combines coursework and practice.
- Focus on sports nutrition.
- Emphasizes cultural humility.
- Leadership skill development.
- Requires bachelor's degree.
- Program prerequisites needed.
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition & Dietetics
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Nutrition & Dietetics program with a Sports Nutrition concentration is a four-year undergraduate degree that integrates diet, exercise, and health science to train future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. It emphasizes practical applications in sports settings, offering hands-on learning and research opportunities. Admission requires meeting the university's undergraduate criteria, which may include ACT or SAT exams, and costs vary by residency. This program provides a strong foundation for careers or advanced studies in nutrition.
- Four-year degree program.
- Focus on sports nutrition.
- Prepares for RDN credential.
- Combines science and physiology.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Research opportunities available.
- Admission based on UC criteria.
- Cost varies by residency.
- Foundation for advanced studies.
- Practical applications in nutrition.
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Master's - Nutritional Science, MS
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Master of Science in Nutritional Science with a Sports Nutrition concentration focuses on exercise science and athlete nutrition, covering topics like exercise physiology, hydration, and sports supplements. The program requires 30 credit hours, including a thesis or applied project, and has prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry with a 3.00 GPA minimum. It is STEM-OPT eligible for international students and emphasizes internships and research, preparing graduates for careers in sports nutrition. An entrance exam is not mentioned as required for this master's level program.
- Specialized Sports Nutrition track
- STEM-OPT extension eligible
- 30 credit hours required
- Thesis or applied project option
- Prerequisites in science and nutrition
- 3.00 GPA minimum for admission
- Rigorous internships and research
- Focus on exercise physiology
- Evaluation of sports supplements
- Hydration and electrolyte regulation
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - memphis.edu
Master's - MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Memphis offers an ACEND-accredited MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program with a Sports Nutrition concentration. This 16-month intensive program combines didactic coursework with over 1200 hours of supervised practice, including rotations in sports settings. It prepares students for the RDN credentialing exam and meets Tennessee licensure requirements. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and DPD coursework; no entrance exam is specified for this master's level program, focusing on practical experience and adult clinical nutrition.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 16-month intensive curriculum
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- Over 1200 supervised practice hours
- Prepares for RDN credentialing exam
- Meets Tennessee licensure requirements
- Combines coursework with practical experience
- Focus on adult clinical and sports nutrition
- Optional paid nutrition experience
- Applied project required
Weber State University
Ogden, UT - Public 4-Year - weber.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition Education
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
Weber State University's campus-based Nutrition Education program with a Sports Nutrition concentration equips students for roles in sports teams and health clubs through a curriculum focused on diet design, health, and current nutrition topics. It includes hands-on experience in labs and gardens, preparing graduates for further studies or direct careers. Admission is competitive, with no entrance exam required for this bachelor's level program, making it an accessible and practical choice for aspiring sports nutritionists.
- Campus-based program
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- Hands-on lab experience
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Comprehensive nutrition curriculum
- Competitive admission requirements
- Accessible cost structure
- Tailored for career preparation
- Includes diet design studies
- Focus on current nutrition issues
Lipscomb University
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - lipscomb.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lipscomb University's Master of Science in Nutrition with a Sports Nutrition concentration offers a hybrid format combining online and on-campus learning, ideal for working professionals. Accredited by ACEND, the program includes over 1,000 experiential hours focused on sports dietetics, preparing graduates for the RD exam. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, with the GRE entrance exam optional. At $1,065 per credit hour, financial aid is available, and the program boasts a high graduation rate, making it a strong choice for careers in sports nutrition.
- Hybrid program format
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- 1,000+ experiential hours
- Accredited by ACEND
- Flexible for professionals
- GRE optional
- $1,065 per credit hour
- Financial aid available
- Prepares for RD exam
- High graduation rate
Merrimack College
North Andover, MA - Private 4-year - merrimack.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance
Concentration: Sports/Human Performance - Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College offers an ACEND-accredited Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance with a concentration in Sports/Human Performance, requiring no GRE for admission. This 54-credit program includes 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning, focusing on sports nutrition, clinical applications, and community settings. Designed for aspiring Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, it integrates advanced science with hands-on training, featuring scholarship opportunities and a STEM designation. Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree with specific courses, and the curriculum prepares graduates for dynamic roles in performance nutrition.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 1,000 hours supervised learning
- Sports/human performance focus
- 54 total credit hours
- Full-time 2-year program
- No GRE required
- Scholarships available
- Career-ready curriculum
- Multiple practice rotations
- STEM designated program
2026 Most Affordable Sports Nutrition Programs
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Which is the Best Program for You?
How to Choose the Right Sports Nutrition Program
1. Define Your Career Goals
- Sports Dietitian (RD): Requires ACEND-accredited program with dietetic internship
- Performance Consultant: Focus on research-based programs with exercise physiology
- Private Practice: Consider programs with CNS credential preparation
- Team Sports: Look for programs with hands-on athletic experience
- Research/Academia: Prioritize thesis-based programs with strong research components
2. Evaluate Program Structure
- Degree Level: Bachelor’s for foundation, Master’s for specialization and leadership
- Accreditation: ACEND for RD pathway, other specialized accreditations
- Delivery Format: Campus-based for labs/hands-on vs. online for flexibility
- Duration: 1-2 years for master’s, with some intensive options available
3. Consider Practical Factors
- Hands-on Experience: Supervised practice hours, internships, athletic rotations
- Cost: Significant variation between public/private and in-state/out-of-state
- Location: Access to professional sports teams, athletic facilities
- Admission Requirements: GRE, prerequisites, GPA thresholds
Program Analysis by Tier & Specialization
Tier 1: ACEND-Accredited RD Pathway Programs
University of Utah (Salt Lake City, UT)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- Coordinated Master’s Program eliminating separate internship need
- Impressive 91.4% first-time RDN exam pass rate
- Two-year program combining coursework with supervised practice
- Emphasis on cultural humility and evidence-based practices
- Campus-based with comprehensive hands-on experience
Best For: Students committed to becoming registered dietitians in sports nutrition
Program: Coordinated Master’s in Nutrition & Dietetics – Sports Nutrition (2 years, campus-based)
University of Memphis (Memphis, TN)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- ACEND-accredited MS with Dietetic Internship and Residency
- Intensive 16-month completion timeline
- Over 1,200 hours of supervised practice
- Focus on adult clinical and sports nutrition
- Optional paid nutrition experience opportunities
Best For: Accelerated RD preparation, Tennessee residents, clinical sports focus
Program: MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship – Sports Nutrition (16 months, campus-based)
Lipscomb University (Nashville, TN)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- ACEND-accredited with hybrid learning model
- Over 1,000 practical experiential hours
- GRE optional admission (increased accessibility)
- $1,065 per credit hour with financial aid available
- High graduation rate with RD exam preparation
Best For: Students wanting hybrid format, GRE-averse students, financial aid seekers
Program: MS Nutrition & Dietetic Internship – Sports Nutrition (hybrid format)
Merrimack College (North Andover, MA)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- ACEND-accredited with 54 credit hours
- 1,000 hours supervised experiential learning
- No GRE requirement
- STEM-designated program (international student advantage)
- Multiple practice rotations across settings
Best For: International students, GRE-averse students, comprehensive experience seekers
Program: MS Nutrition & Human Performance – Sports/Human Performance (2 years, campus-based)
Tier 2: Research-Intensive & Specialized Programs
Auburn University (Auburn, AL)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- Specialized Sports Nutrition concentration at master’s level
- Nutritional genomics integration (cutting-edge approach)
- Both thesis and non-thesis track options
- Faculty expertise in diabetes and obesity research
- Advanced physiology of exercise coursework
Best For: Research-oriented students, genomics interests, flexible academic pathways
Program: MS Nutrition – Sports Nutrition concentration (30-33 credits, campus-based)
Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- STEM-OPT extension eligible (international student advantage)
- Focus on exercise physiology and electrolyte dynamics
- Sports supplement evaluation emphasis
- 30-credit program with thesis or applied project options
- Strategic internships and research collaborations
Best For: International students, research focus, supplement science interests
Program: MS Nutritional Science – Sports Nutrition (30 credits, campus-based)
Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- Rapid one-year completion possible
- Meets Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) credential requirements
- Genetic applications and plant-based strategies focus
- Hybrid learning model with flexible admission cycles
- 30-credit comprehensive program
Best For: Career changers wanting rapid completion, CNS credential seekers, modern nutrition trends
Program: MS Nutrition – Sports Nutrition (30 credits, hybrid format)
Tier 3: Flexible & Accessible Programs
Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- No standardized testing required for admission
- Transfer up to 50% of credits (maximum flexibility)
- Military tuition discounts available
- 35-credit program with thesis or internship options
- Hybrid format with hands-on campus intensives
Best For: Transfer students, military personnel, standardized test averse students
Program: MS Human Performance – Sports Nutrition (35 credits, hybrid format)
University of Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- Bachelor’s level sports nutrition concentration
- Four-year undergraduate pathway
- Prepares for RDN credentialing
- Hands-on research opportunities at undergraduate level
- Strong foundation for advanced studies
Best For: Undergraduates planning sports nutrition careers, Ohio residents, RD pathway preparation
Program: BS Nutrition & Dietetics – Sports Nutrition (4 years, campus-based)
Weber State University (Ogden, UT)
Unique Distinguishing Features:
- Most affordable option ($5,100-$7,700 in-state)
- Bachelor’s level Nutrition Education program
- Hands-on lab and garden experience
- Comprehensive diet design curriculum
- Excellent preparation for graduate studies
Best For: Budget-conscious students, Utah residents, undergraduate foundation seekers
Program: BS Nutrition Education – Sports Nutrition (campus-based)
Quick Decision Matrix
| Priority | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| RD Credential Required | University of Utah (91.4% pass rate), Memphis, Lipscomb, Merrimack |
| Fastest Completion | Nova Southeastern (1 year), Memphis (16 months) |
| Most Affordable | Weber State ($5,100-$7,700), Liberty ($6,700-$10,000) |
| No GRE Required | Liberty, Lipscomb (optional), Merrimack |
| Research Focus | Auburn (genomics), Arizona State (STEM-OPT) |
| International Students | Arizona State (STEM-OPT), Merrimack (STEM-designated) |
| Hybrid/Online Options | Nova Southeastern, Liberty, Lipscomb |
| Military-Friendly | Liberty University (discounts available) |
| CNS Credential Prep | Nova Southeastern University |
| Bachelor’s Level | Weber State (most affordable), Cincinnati (RD prep) |
Cost Analysis & Financial Considerations
Most Affordable Programs
- Weber State University: $5,100-$7,700 (in-state undergraduate)
- Liberty University: $6,700-$10,000 (graduate, military discounts)
- Public Universities: Generally offer lower in-state tuition rates
Mid-Range Options
- Arizona State, Auburn, Cincinnati: Public university graduate rates
- University of Utah, Memphis: Competitive public pricing
Premium Programs
- Lipscomb: $1,065 per credit hour (but financial aid available)
- Nova Southeastern, Merrimack: Private university pricing with scholarship opportunities
Financial Aid Considerations
- ACEND-accredited programs: Often eligible for additional funding
- Graduate assistantships: Available at many research universities
- Military benefits: Liberty University offers specific discounts
- STEM designation: International students gain work authorization benefits
Hands-On Experience Comparison
Most Comprehensive Practical Training
- University of Memphis: 1,200+ supervised practice hours
- Merrimack College: 1,000 hours supervised learning + multiple rotations
- Lipscomb University: 1,000+ experiential hours
- University of Utah: Comprehensive supervised practice integration
Research & Lab Experience
- Auburn University: Advanced research opportunities, genomics focus
- Arizona State: Strategic internships and research collaborations
- Weber State: Hands-on lab and garden experience
Athletic Setting Exposure
- University of Utah: Sports nutrition concentration rotations
- Memphis: Adult clinical and sports nutrition focus
- Arizona State: Exercise physiology and performance optimization
Specialized Focus Areas
Cutting-Edge Specializations
- Auburn: Nutritional genomics and personalized nutrition
- Nova Southeastern: Genetic applications and plant-based strategies
- Arizona State: Sports supplement evaluation and electrolyte dynamics
Performance Optimization
- Auburn: Advanced physiology of exercise
- Arizona State: Exercise physiology and performance enhancement
- Liberty: Human performance and chronic disease management
Clinical Integration
- University of Utah: Cultural humility and evidence-based practices
- Memphis: Adult clinical and sports nutrition combination
- Merrimack: Clinical, community, and athletic nutrition domains
Career Outcomes & Professional Pathways
Sports Dietitian Roles
- Professional Sports Teams: Requires RD credential from ACEND program
- Collegiate Athletics: RD preferred, strong sports nutrition background
- Olympic Training Centers: Advanced credentials and specialized experience
Performance Consulting
- Private Practice: CNS credential valuable (Nova Southeastern prepares)
- Fitness Centers: Bachelor’s often sufficient with specialized training
- Athletic Performance Centers: Master’s level preferred
Research & Academia
- University Research: Thesis-based programs provide foundation
- Sports Nutrition Companies: Research experience and advanced degrees
- Government Agencies: Advanced degrees with research experience
Salary Expectations
- Entry-level Sports Dietitian: $45,000-$60,000
- Experienced Sports RD: $60,000-$85,000
- Professional Team Sports Dietitian: $70,000-$120,000+
- Performance Consultants: $50,000-$100,000+ (highly variable)
Bottom Line Recommendations
Choose University of Utah for the highest RDN exam pass rate (91.4%) and coordinated program eliminating separate internship needs.
Choose Auburn University for cutting-edge nutritional genomics research and flexible thesis/non-thesis options.
Choose Nova Southeastern for rapid one-year completion and CNS credential preparation.
Choose Weber State for the most affordable undergraduate foundation ($5,100-$7,700 in-state).
Choose Liberty University for maximum transfer credit flexibility (50%) and military-friendly policies.
Choose Arizona State for STEM-OPT benefits and exercise physiology research focus.
Choose Memphis for intensive 16-month ACEND-accredited preparation with extensive supervised practice.
Your choice should align with your career goals (RD vs. performance consultant), preferred timeline (1-4 years), budget constraints, and whether you need specific credentials like RD or CNS certification. Consider the importance of hands-on athletic experience versus research opportunities when making your decision.