Colorado’s nutrition programs leverage the state’s pioneering spirit and health innovation ecosystem. Students gain hands-on experience addressing complex disparities—from working with Latino families in Denver’s urban food deserts to developing nutrition interventions for rural agricultural communities. The state’s tech-forward approach to healthcare creates opportunities to work with cutting-edge nutrition technologies, telehealth platforms, and data-driven wellness programs.
Colorado presents unique nutrition challenges amid a health-conscious landscape that demands innovative professionals. While the state leads the nation with the lowest adult obesity rate—hidden disparities persist.
- Food insecurity has risen to 11.2% in 2023, up from previous years
- Over 474,420 people face hunger statewide, including 141,570 children.
- Pueblo County experiences 19.1% food insecurity
- Agricultural communities in Southeast Colorado face rates as high as 18.1%
2025 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Colorado
Looking for the best nutrition degree programs in Colorado? nutritiondegrees.org has you covered. Our rankings highlight top schools offering quality education in nutrition. We focus on programs that prepare students for successful careers. Our list is based on careful research and clear criteria. Want to know how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for details. Start your journey in nutrition with a degree from one of Colorado's best programs today.
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO - Public 4-Year - colostate.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Colorado State University-Fort Collins presents a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science, a comprehensive program merging physiology, chemistry, and public health to tackle nutrition and disease prevention. Students are prepared for diverse health science careers or further medical education through a curriculum that encourages specialization after foundational studies. Highlights include a hands-on learning environment, interdisciplinary approach, and accreditation for dietetics, making it a standout choice for aspiring health professionals. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Hands-on learning approach
- Blends multiple disciplines
- Prepares for health careers
- Offers three concentrations
- Campus-based program
- Focus on disease prevention
- Prepares for advanced degrees
- Accredited dietetics program
- Emphasizes health and wellness
- Tailored to career goals
Bachelor's - Nutrition Science
Concentration: Dietetics and Nutrition Management - Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in Dietetics and Nutrition Management, Colorado State University-Fort Collins offers a nationally accredited program aimed at future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. This concentration focuses on clinical and community nutrition, food service management, and includes practicums in sports nutrition and counseling. With a 3.1 GPA requirement and no grades below C-, it prepares students for high-demand careers in dietetics. Accredited by ACEND, it provides pathways to master's degrees and boasts high employment rates with median salaries over $70K. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Nationally accredited program
- Prepares for RDN credential
- Hands-on practicums available
- GPA requirement: 3.1
- No grade below C- accepted
- Focus on clinical nutrition
- Community nutrition focus
- Food service management
- Real-world learning opportunities
- Follows university tuition
Master's - Food Science and Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition with a Nutrition concentration at Colorado State University-Fort Collins delves into molecular, clinical, and community nutrition. This 35-credit on-campus program is tailored for future leaders in health fields, offering advanced coursework and research opportunities. It's a gateway to doctoral studies or careers in research, healthcare, and industry, emphasizing the science of nutrition's role in health. No GRE Required.
- Specialization in Nutrition
- On-campus program
- Minimum 35 credits
- Focus on nutrition and health
- Prepares for doctoral studies
- Leadership roles in health fields
- Cutting-edge research opportunities
- Molecular, clinical, community nutrition
- Advanced nutrition science coursework
- Health-related career paths
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition program is tailored for students aiming for careers in health care, education, and public health. With a focus on personalized education, the program offers small class sizes and direct faculty mentorship. Students benefit from a curriculum that explores nutrition's role in health, food production, and community wellness, alongside opportunities for hands-on learning and research. The program's flexibility allows for combining with other health-related majors, catering to diverse career aspirations. Graduates are well-prepared for the Certified Dietary Manager exam or advancing to medical or graduate schools. Requires ACT/SAT.
- B.S. in Nutrition
- Flexible course selection
- Hands-on learning opportunities
- Small class sizes
- Faculty advisers
- Prepares for Certified Dietary Manager exam
- Options to combine with other majors
- Covers health, fitness, business
- Community service opportunities
- Research participation
Community College of Denver
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ccd.edu
Associate - Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Community College of Denver offers a two-year Associate of Science in Nutrition program, designed to equip students with foundational knowledge in human nutrition, biochemistry, and wellness strategies. This program stands out for its seamless transfer options to four-year universities and a unique 3+2 pathway with Metropolitan State University of Denver for those aiming to become registered dietitians. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in nutrition and wellness, with career opportunities expected to grow by 10-15% through 2030. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential topics for a successful career in nutrition. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Two-year Associate of Science degree
- Transfer pathway to 4-year university
- 10-15% job growth projected
- Multiple career opportunities
- 3+2 master's degree option
- Comprehensive nutrition curriculum
- Inter-institutional program agreement
- Nutrition career preparation
Pikes Peak State College
Colorado Springs, CO - Public 4-Year - pikespeak.edu
Associate - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pikes Peak State College offers an Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, designed for students aiming to enter the fast-growing field of nutrition and health sciences. This program lays the groundwork for future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, covering essential topics like nutrition science, food safety, and dietary management. With a curriculum that emphasizes practical skills in meal planning and understanding dietary laws, students are well-prepared for further education and professional certification. The program is ideal for those looking to transfer to a four-year institution, offering a solid foundation in the science, engineering, and math pathway. Highlights include a focus on transferability, comprehensive nutrition education, and strong career prospects in the nutrition field.
- Associate of Science Degree
- Science, Engineering, Math Pathway
- Transfer-focused curriculum
- Strong job growth potential
- Covers food safety, nutrition
Programs by City
Colorado offers a variety of nutrition degree programs at different levels, including associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. These programs are designed to prepare students for careers in nutrition and dietetics. Below is a table listing schools in Colorado, their locations, program highlights, and links to more information. Whether you're starting your education or advancing it, you'll find options to fit your goals.
Colorado Springs, CO
Pikes Peak State College
- Associate - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- Associate of Science Degree
- Science, Engineering, Math Pathway
- Transfer-focused curriculum
- Strong job growth potential
- Covers food safety, nutrition
Denver, CO
Community College of Denver
- Associate - Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year Associate of Science degree
- Transfer pathway to 4-year university
- 10-15% job growth projected
- Multiple career opportunities
- 3+2 master's degree option
- Comprehensive nutrition curriculum
- Inter-institutional program agreement
- Nutrition career preparation
Fort Collins, CO
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
- Bachelor's - Nutrition Science
Campus Based - Website
- Hands-on learning approach
- Blends multiple disciplines
- Prepares for health careers
- Offers three concentrations
- Campus-based program
- Focus on disease prevention
- Prepares for advanced degrees
- Accredited dietetics program
- Bachelor's - Nutrition Science
Concentration: Dietetics and Nutrition Management - Campus Based - Website
- Nationally accredited program
- Prepares for RDN credential
- Hands-on practicums available
- GPA requirement: 3.1
- No grade below C- accepted
- Focus on clinical nutrition
- Community nutrition focus
- Food service management
- Master's - Food Science and Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- Specialization in Nutrition
- On-campus program
- Minimum 35 credits
- Focus on nutrition and health
- Prepares for doctoral studies
- Leadership roles in health fields
- Cutting-edge research opportunities
- Molecular, clinical, community nutrition
Greeley, CO
University of Northern Colorado
- Bachelor's - Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- B.S. in Nutrition
- Flexible course selection
- Hands-on learning opportunities
- Small class sizes
- Faculty advisers
- Prepares for Certified Dietary Manager exam
- Options to combine with other majors
- Covers health, fitness, business
Choosing the Right Program for You
Quick Program Selection Guide
Choose Colorado State University-Fort Collins for comprehensive research-focused education and ACEND accreditation.
CSU offers the most comprehensive pathway with Bachelor’s in Nutrition Science featuring three concentrations, nationally ACEND-accredited Dietetics and Nutrition Management track, and advanced Master’s in Food Science and Nutrition. The programs provide hands-on learning, high employment rates with median salaries over $70K, and strong preparation for RDN credentials and doctoral studies.
Select University of Northern Colorado for personalized education and flexible career preparation.
UNC’s Bachelor of Science in Nutrition emphasizes small class sizes, direct faculty mentorship, and flexible course selection allowing combination with other health-related majors. Ideal for students seeking personalized attention, hands-on learning opportunities, and preparation for Certified Dietary Manager exam or medical/graduate school advancement.
Consider Community College of Denver for affordable transfer pathways and accelerated completion options.
CCD offers unique 3+2 pathway with Metropolitan State University for registered dietitian preparation, seamless transfer options to four-year universities, and comprehensive two-year foundation with 10-15% job growth projections in the field.
Choose Pikes Peak State College for science-focused foundation and transfer preparation.
PPSC provides Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics with strong Science, Engineering, and Math pathway focus, transfer-oriented curriculum, and comprehensive coverage of food safety and nutrition essentials for future RDN preparation.
Types of Degrees
Associate Level Foundation Programs
Community College of Denver: Offers comprehensive Associate of Science in Nutrition with unique 3+2 pathway to Metropolitan State University, seamless transfer options, and strong career preparation with 10-15% projected job growth through 2030.
Pikes Peak State College: Provides Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics within Science, Engineering, and Math pathway, emphasizing transfer preparation, food safety, nutrition science, and dietary management fundamentals.
Bachelor’s Level Comprehensive Training
Colorado State University-Fort Collins: Features Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science with three concentrations:
- Dietetics and Nutrition Management (ACEND-accredited for RDN preparation)
- Additional concentrations for specialized career pathways
- Interdisciplinary approach merging physiology, chemistry, and public health
University of Northern Colorado: Offers Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with flexible course selection, small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and options to combine with other health-related majors for diverse career preparation.
Graduate Level Advanced Studies
Colorado State University-Fort Collins: Provides Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition with Nutrition concentration (35 credits minimum), focusing on molecular, clinical, and community nutrition with research opportunities and preparation for doctoral studies or leadership roles.
Admission Standards and Accessibility
Entrance Exam Policies
Colorado programs require standardized testing for undergraduate admission:
- ACT/SAT Required: All bachelor’s degree programs (CSU, UNC, CCD, PPSC)
- No GRE Required: CSU’s Master’s program eliminates graduate entrance exam barriers
- Graduate Programs: Focus on undergraduate preparation and research interests
GPA Requirements and Academic Performance
Undergraduate Programs:
- Colorado State University: 3.1 GPA requirement for Dietetics concentration with no grades below C-
- University of Northern Colorado: Standard admission requirements with personalized support
- Community colleges: Generally accessible with high school completion
Graduate Programs:
- Colorado State University: Competitive admission based on undergraduate performance and research interests
Prerequisite Requirements and Preparation
Programs typically require strong science foundations:
- Chemistry and Biochemistry coursework for advanced programs
- Biology and Physiology preparation
- Mathematics competency for research-focused programs
- Health sciences background preferred for graduate study
Financial Considerations
Public University Value Proposition
Colorado State University: In-state public university pricing with comprehensive ACEND-accredited programs, high employment rates (median salaries over $70K), and strong return on investment through professional credentialing.
University of Northern Colorado: Competitive public university rates with personalized education benefits, small class sizes providing enhanced value through individual attention and mentorship.
Community College Affordability
Community College of Denver: Outstanding value with two-year associate degree providing affordable pathway to four-year institutions and unique 3+2 master’s degree completion option.
Pikes Peak State College: Cost-effective associate degree with strong transfer preparation and comprehensive foundational training in nutrition sciences.
Return on Investment Projections
Colorado programs demonstrate strong career prospects:
- 10-15% job growth projected through 2030 in nutrition field
- Median salaries over $70K for registered dietitians
- High employment rates for ACEND-accredited program graduates
- Multiple career pathways in healthcare, education, and public health
Learning Formats and Schedule Flexibility
Campus-Based Comprehensive Experience
All Colorado programs offer traditional campus-based learning featuring:
- Hands-on laboratory experiences and practical skills development
- Research opportunities and faculty collaboration
- Small class sizes providing personalized attention
- Community service opportunities and real-world application
Flexible Academic Scheduling
University of Northern Colorado: Emphasizes flexible course selection allowing students to combine nutrition with other health-related majors for customized career preparation.
Community colleges: Provide accessible scheduling options for diverse student populations including working adults and transfer-focused students.
Accelerated Completion Options
- Community College of Denver: 3+2 pathway enabling bachelor’s and master’s completion in five years
- Transfer agreements: Seamless transitions between institutions for efficient degree completion
Career Specializations and Professional Focus
Clinical and Medical Nutrition
Colorado State University: ACEND-accredited Dietetics and Nutrition Management concentration with clinical nutrition focus, food service management, and sports nutrition practicums preparing students for RDN credentials and healthcare careers.
Research and Advanced Practice
Colorado State University: Master’s program emphasizing molecular, clinical, and community nutrition with research opportunities, preparing graduates for doctoral studies and leadership roles in nutrition science.
Community and Public Health Nutrition
Multiple programs address:
- Community wellness programming and implementation
- Public health nutrition applications and disease prevention
- Health promotion strategies across diverse populations
- Food safety and management principles
Wellness and Fitness Integration
University of Northern Colorado: Comprehensive coverage of health, fitness, and business applications with opportunities to combine nutrition training with related health disciplines.
Dietary Management and Food Service
Programs prepare students for:
- Certified Dietary Manager certification and roles
- Food service management in healthcare and institutional settings
- Meal planning and dietary laws compliance
- Nutrition counseling and client interaction
Program Comparison Table (the basics)
| Institution | Degree | Program / Concentration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSU–Fort Collins | BS | Nutrition Science | Campus |
| CSU–Fort Collins | BS | Nutrition Science (Dietetics & Nutrition Management) | Campus |
| CSU–Fort Collins | MS | Food Science & Nutrition (Nutrition) | Campus |
| University of Northern Colorado | BS | Nutrition | Campus |
| Community College of Denver | AS | Nutrition | Campus |
| Pikes Peak State College | AS | Nutrition & Dietetics | Campus |
Job Market: Why Colorado is Ideal for Nutrition Careers
The state’s health-conscious culture, innovative wellness industry, and commitment to addressing health disparities create diverse opportunities for nutrition professionals to thrive.
- Dynamic demand: Health-conscious population drives innovation in preventive nutrition and wellness programs
- Premium compensation: Nutritionists in Denver earn $55,722 annually ($26.79/hour), while registered dietitians average $78,539 ($37.76/hour) statewide, with Denver dietitians earning $65,713
- Diverse settings: Opportunities span world-class medical centers like Denver Health and Children’s Hospital Colorado, innovative wellness startups, sports nutrition with professional teams, and community health initiatives
- Advanced education advantage: Master’s degree requirement starting January 2024 for RDN credentials increases professional value in competitive market
- Quality of life: High salaries combined with Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle and health-focused culture create exceptional work-life balance
Major employers like Denver Health Medical Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and innovative wellness companies provide diverse clinical rotations and career pathways. Colorado’s outdoor recreation industry also creates unique opportunities in sports nutrition, adventure-based therapy, and active lifestyle counseling.