Florida Nutrition Programs & Online Degrees

With ACEND-accredited programs, state-of-the-art laboratories, and partnerships with leading healthcare institutions, Florida’s nutrition schools combine academic excellence with real-world training that employers demand.

Your path to success starts here. From budget-friendly associate degrees that seamlessly transfer to four-year universities, to accelerated master’s programs that can be completed in just one year, Florida offers flexible options designed for your lifestyle and career goals. These programs don’t just teach nutrition theory—they provide hands-on research opportunities, clinical rotations in top healthcare facilities, and specialized tracks in sports nutrition, community health, and food science. With Florida’s growing healthcare sector and year-round opportunities for wellness-focused careers, graduates enter a job market hungry for qualified nutrition professionals ready to make an immediate impact.

2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Florida

If you're looking for the best nutrition degree programs in Florida, nutritiondegrees.org has you covered with our expert rankings. We carefully evaluate schools based on factors like curriculum quality, faculty expertise, and career outcomes to help you make an informed choice. Our goal is to guide you toward programs that can kickstart your career in nutrition. For details on how we rank these programs, check out our methodology at https://www.nutritiondegrees.org/about-us/#ranking.

#1

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition

Campus Based - Visit Website

Nova Southeastern University's Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition is a campus-based program in Fort Lauderdale, FL, providing a robust foundation in sciences like anatomy and chemistry. It emphasizes hands-on research and collaboration with medical professionals, preparing students for careers in public health, wellness promotion, and food service management. This bachelor's program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission, and it serves as a pathway to graduate studies.

• Campus-based program
• Focus on human nutrition
• Hands-on research opportunities
• Collaboration with medical professionals
• Prepares for diverse careers
• Pathway to graduate studies
• Strong foundation in sciences
• Community nutrition focus
• Food service management
• Real-world learning experiences

Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Nutrition at Nova Southeastern University is a hybrid program offering flexibility with online and on-campus components. It covers cutting-edge topics such as genetic applications and plant-based diets, is ACEND accredited, and prepares students for RDN and CNS certifications. This master's program requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE, for admission, and can be completed in one year with a 30-credit curriculum.

• Hybrid learning options.
• 30-credit curriculum.
• Complete in one year.
• ACEND accredited.
• Prepares for RDN, CNS.
• Concentrations available.
• Cutting-edge nutrition topics.
• Flexible scheduling.
• Interactive faculty support.
• Meets future standards.

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 concentration in Sports Nutrition is a hybrid program focusing on sports and fitness applications. It includes studies in genetic applications and plant-based eating, meets CNS credential requirements, and offers flexible admission deadlines. This master's program requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE, for admission, and is designed to be completed in one year with 30 credits.

• 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

Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition

Concentration: Community Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Community Nutrition at Nova Southeastern University is a hybrid program aimed at improving public health. It blends online and on-campus learning, covers emerging trends like genetic applications, and prepares for RDN and CNS certifications. This master's program requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE, for admission, with a bachelor's degree prerequisite and flexible start dates.

• Hybrid program option
• 30 total credits
• Complete in one year
• Online and on-campus
• Community Nutrition focus
• Prepares for RDN, CNS
• Flexible admissions deadlines
• Bachelor's degree required

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#2

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu

Bachelor's - Nutritional Sciences

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Florida's Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences offers a comprehensive curriculum blending biochemistry, physiology, and nutrition to prepare students for careers in healthcare, research, or professional programs like medical or dental school. This 120-credit program emphasizes scientific methodology and practical applications, with critical tracking requirements and no specified entrance exam for admission. It provides a strong foundation for diverse pathways, including nutrition policy and public health.

• Bachelor of Science degree
• 120 total credits required
• Strong scientific foundation
• Preparation for professional schools
• Interdisciplinary curriculum
• Biochemistry and biology focus
• Critical tracking requirements
• Multiple career pathway options

Master's - M.S. in Food Science and Human Nutrition

Concentration: Nutritional Sciences - Campus Based - Visit Website

The M.S. in Food Science and Human Nutrition with a Nutritional Sciences concentration at the University of Florida focuses on the health impacts of diet through interdisciplinary studies in chemistry, biology, and social sciences. This program requires a background in physical and biological sciences, with prerequisite courses for deficiencies, and does not specify an entrance exam. It prepares graduates for research, clinical nutrition, and public health roles, emphasizing critical thinking and scientific inquiry.

• Nutritional Sciences track available.
• Focus on diet's health impact.
• Broad academic and research experience.
• Background in sciences required.
• Prepares for research and clinical careers.
• Emphasizes critical thinking.
• Coursework in diverse sciences.
• Prerequisite courses for deficiencies.
• Blends chemistry, biology, social sciences.
• Prepares for public health roles.

Master's - M.S. Dietetic Internship Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

The M.S. Dietetic Internship Program at the University of Florida is a 22-month accredited pathway combining a master's degree with a 1,000-hour internship to become a registered dietitian nutritionist. It includes diverse clinical rotations, such as hospital and WIC experiences, and requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission, with no entrance exam mentioned. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in clinical, community, and food service management settings.

• 22-month master's program
• 1,000 hour dietetic internship
• ACEND fully accredited
• Multiple clinical rotation sites
• Pediatric internship track option
• Research and practical experience
• Prepare for RDN exam
• Competitive admission process
• Graduate tuition around $12,740
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA

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#3

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - fsu.edu

Master's - Nutrition and Food Science

Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida State University's Nutrition and Food Science program provides a comprehensive curriculum integrating human health, nutrition, food science, and exercise physiology. It offers thesis and non-thesis options with specializations in food science and nutrition science, including a dietetic internship. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and GRE scores of 150 in both Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning. The program focuses on research in obesity, aging, and chronic diseases, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities like the Center for Advancing Exercise and Nutrition Research on Aging, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, and health fields.

• Thesis and non-thesis options.
• Specializations in food science.
• Dietetic internship available.
• 3.0 GPA requirement.
• GRE scores of 150 required.
• Research in obesity and aging.
• State-of-the-art research facilities.
• Prepares for academia and industry.
• Focus on chronic disease research.
• Comprehensive curriculum.

Master's - Nutrition and Food Science

Concentration: Nutrition Science - Campus Based - Visit Website

FSU's Nutrition Science concentration explores the biochemical functions and physiological actions of nutrients through a rigorous curriculum. It includes thesis and non-thesis tracks, with coursework in metabolism, nutrition counseling, and wellness. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and GRE scores of 150 Verbal, 150 Quantitative, and 4.0 Writing. This program emphasizes hands-on research and prepares students for impactful roles in health, research, and academia, focusing on advanced nutritional studies.

• Thesis and non-thesis options available.
• Requires 3.0 GPA for admission.
• GRE scores of 150 Verbal, 150 Quantitative, 4.0 Writing.
• Focus on metabolism and wellness.
• Prepares for careers in health and research.

Master's - Nutrition and Food Science

Concentration: Food Science - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Food Science concentration at FSU offers a 33-semester-hour master's program with a research-driven approach, covering topics like food safety, preservation, microbiology, and quality management. It provides specialized laboratory experiences and thesis or non-thesis options. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and recommended GRE scores, equipping graduates for careers in food industry research, quality control, and technological innovation with a focus on scientific advancement.

• 33 semester hour program
• Thesis and non-thesis options
• Advanced food science research
• Specialized laboratory techniques
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement

Show 2 More Programs ˅

#4

Seminole State College of Florida

Sanford, FL - Public 4-Year - seminolestate.edu

Associate - Nutritional Sciences Pathway Associate in Arts

Online Learning - Visit Website

Seminole State College of Florida's Nutritional Sciences Pathway Associate in Arts is an online program ideal for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution. It provides a strong foundation in key areas such as anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry, with a focus on nutrition and dietetics. The program emphasizes affordability, small class sizes, and flexible online or in-person study options. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specific science and math prerequisites, but no ACT or SAT exam is needed as it's an associate-level pathway. This prepares students for seamless advancement into bachelor's programs and careers in health and wellness.

• Affordable tuition
• Small class sizes
• Online and in-person options
• Seamless university transfer
• Focus on nutrition and dietetics
• Covers anatomy, microbiology, chemistry
• Prepares for bachelor's degree
• High school diploma required
• Specific course prerequisites
• Flexible study options

#5

Gulf Coast State College

Panama City, FL - Public 4-Year - gulfcoast.edu

Associate - Nutrition, Food, and Exercise Science Option

Campus Based - Visit Website

Gulf Coast State College offers a Nutrition, Food, and Exercise Science Associate in Arts degree, designed to build a strong foundation for students aiming for health and wellness careers. This two-year program includes prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and nutrition, preparing graduates for transfer to four-year universities. With affordable tuition, small class sizes, and personalized instruction, it supports various career paths in dietetics, nutrition counseling, and food science. No entrance exams like ACT or SAT are required for this associate-level program, making it accessible for those starting their academic journey.

• Associate in Arts Degree
• 60 Total Credit Hours
• 2-Year Average Completion Time
• Transfers to Florida Universities
• Low Tuition Rates
• Small Class Sizes
• Multiple Career Pathways
• Prerequisite Courses for Baccalaureate
• Health Sciences Pathway
• Biology and Chemistry Focus

*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

Programs by City

Choosing the Right Program for You

Quick Selection Guide

Choose University of Florida for comprehensive research-focused education and ACEND-accredited training.

UF offers Bachelor’s in Nutritional Sciences with strong scientific foundation plus innovative MS Dietetic Internship Program (22 months, 1,000 hours) and research-focused MS in Food Science and Human Nutrition. The programs provide ACEND accreditation, competitive admission, and preparation for RDN credentials with extensive research opportunities and clinical rotations.

Select Florida State University for specialized graduate training and advanced research facilities.

FSU’s Master’s in Nutrition and Food Science offers thesis/non-thesis options with specializations in Nutrition Science and Food Science, plus dietetic internship availability. Features state-of-the-art research facilities, focus on obesity and aging research, and preparation for academia and industry careers.

Consider Nova Southeastern University for accelerated completion and flexible learning formats.

NSU’s hybrid Master’s in Nutrition (30 credits, one-year completion) offers ACEND accreditation, specialized concentrations (Sports Nutrition, Community Nutrition), no GRE requirement, and preparation for both RDN and CNS certifications with cutting-edge curriculum topics.

Choose community colleges for affordable transfer pathways and foundational preparation.

Seminole State and Gulf Coast State offer Associate in Arts programs with seamless university transfer options, affordable tuition, small class sizes, and comprehensive prerequisite preparation for four-year nutrition programs.

Types of Degrees

Associate Level Foundation Programs

Seminole State College: Offers Associate in Arts in Nutritional Sciences Pathway with online and in-person options, emphasizing foundational knowledge in anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry for seamless university transfer and bachelor’s degree preparation.

Gulf Coast State College: Provides Associate in Arts in Nutrition, Food, and Exercise Science (60 credit hours, 2-year completion) with strong foundation in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and nutrition, designed for transfer to Florida universities with health sciences pathway focus.

Bachelor’s Level Comprehensive Training

Nova Southeastern University: Features Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition with campus-based delivery, hands-on research opportunities, collaboration with medical professionals, and focus on community nutrition and food service management.

University of Florida: Offers Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences (120 credits) integrating biochemistry, physiology, and nutrition with interdisciplinary approach, critical tracking requirements, and preparation for professional schools or diverse nutrition careers.

Graduate Level Advanced Studies

Nova Southeastern University: Provides accelerated Master’s in Nutrition (30 credits, one-year completion) with:

• Sports Nutrition concentration for athletic performance focus
• Community Nutrition concentration for public health applications
• ACEND accreditation and preparation for RDN/CNS certifications

University of Florida: Offers multiple graduate options:

• MS in Food Science and Human Nutrition with Nutritional Sciences concentration
• MS Dietetic Internship Program (22 months, 1,000 hours supervised practice)
• ACEND accreditation and competitive admission process

Florida State University: Features Master’s in Nutrition and Food Science with:

• Nutrition Science concentration focusing on metabolism and wellness
• Food Science concentration (33 semester hours) for industry preparation
• Advanced research facilities and obesity/aging research focus

Admissions and Requirements

Entrance Exam Policies

Florida programs show varied approaches to standardized testing:

• ACT/SAT Required: All bachelor’s degree programs (NSU, UF)
• GRE Required: UF’s MS in Food Science, FSU’s programs (150 Verbal, 150 Quantitative, 4.0 Writing)
• No GRE Required: NSU’s Master’s programs, UF’s Dietetic Internship Program
• Community Colleges: High school diploma with specific course prerequisites

Academic Performance Standards

Undergraduate Programs:

• University of Florida: Critical tracking requirements with strong scientific methodology emphasis
• Nova Southeastern University: Competitive admission with focus on science foundation
• Community colleges: Accessible admission with prerequisite course completion

Graduate Programs:

• University of Florida: Minimum 3.0 GPA for Dietetic Internship Program
• Florida State University: 3.0 GPA requirement with specific GRE score thresholds
• Nova Southeastern University: Bachelor’s degree required with flexible admission deadlines

Professional Prerequisites

Graduate programs require specific foundational coursework:

• Science background required for UF’s Food Science program
• Prerequisite courses for addressing any deficiencies
• Strong foundation in biochemistry, biology, and chemistry across programs

Financial Investment

Public University Excellence

University of Florida: Outstanding value with graduate tuition around $12,740, ACEND accreditation, extensive research opportunities, and strong career preparation through comprehensive clinical rotations and internship programs.

Florida State University: Competitive public university pricing with state-of-the-art research facilities, advanced laboratory techniques, and preparation for both academic and industry careers.

Private University Investment

Nova Southeastern University: Premium pricing justified by accelerated one-year completion, hybrid learning flexibility, dual certification preparation (RDN/CNS), and cutting-edge curriculum covering genetic applications and emerging nutrition trends.

Community College Value

Seminole State and Gulf Coast State: Exceptional affordability with seamless transfer options to Florida universities, small class sizes providing personalized attention, and comprehensive prerequisite preparation reducing overall degree costs.

Career Outcome Projections

Florida programs demonstrate strong professional prospects:

• ACEND accreditation ensuring RDN eligibility and professional recognition
• Multiple certification pathways (RDN, CNS) for diverse career options
• Research opportunities leading to advanced career positions
• Clinical rotations and supervised practice hours for immediate career readiness

Learning Formats and Academic Flexibility

Hybrid and Online Options

Nova Southeastern University: Innovative hybrid learning combining online flexibility with interactive on-campus components, accommodating working professionals while maintaining program quality.

Seminole State College: Online and in-person options providing maximum scheduling flexibility for diverse student populations.

Campus-Based Comprehensive Experience

Traditional campus programs featuring:

• Hands-on research opportunities with faculty collaboration
• Advanced laboratory facilities and specialized equipment
• Clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings
• Medical professional collaboration for real-world experience

Accelerated Completion Options

• Nova Southeastern University: One-year master’s completion with 30-credit curriculum
• University of Florida: 22-month combined degree and internship program
• Community colleges: Two-year associate degree completion with transfer preparation

Career Specializations

Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics

University of Florida: Comprehensive ACEND-accredited programs with extensive clinical rotations, pediatric internship track options, and preparation for RDN examination through hands-on experience in clinical, community, and food service settings.

Nova Southeastern University: ACEND-accredited training with RDN and CNS certification preparation, covering medical nutrition therapy and clinical applications.

Sports and Performance Nutrition

Nova Southeastern University: Specialized Sports Nutrition concentration addressing athletic performance, exercise nutrition, and sports-specific dietary strategies.

Community and Public Health Nutrition

Nova Southeastern University: Community Nutrition concentration focusing on public health improvement, population-based interventions, and community wellness programming.

Food Science and Technology

University of Florida: Comprehensive food science training examining diet-health relationships through chemistry, biology, and social sciences.

Florida State University: Advanced Food Science concentration (33 semester hours) covering food safety, preservation, microbiology, and quality management with practical laboratory experience.

Research and Advanced Practice

Multiple institutions provide:

• Obesity and aging research opportunities (FSU)
• Chronic disease research focus
• Thesis and non-thesis options for career flexibility
• Advanced research facilities and cutting-edge technology