Idaho offers a variety of nutrition degree programs that cater to diverse student needs and career goals. From two-year community college degrees designed for easy transfer to four-year universities, students can find an academic path that fits their budget and professional aspirations.
The state’s top institutions prepare students for a wide range of careers in dietetics, research, and public health, with options for online, hybrid, and campus-based learning.
2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Idaho
Idaho State University
Pocatello, ID - Public 4-Year - isu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Idaho State University's Bachelor of Science in Dietetics is an accredited program through 2026, preparing students for careers as registered dietitian nutritionists. It combines theoretical coursework with practical experiences in food and nutrition, leading to eligibility for the CDR exam. Graduates can pursue roles in healthcare, public health, and corporate wellness. Located in Pocatello, this campus-based program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, as entrance exams are not specified. It also offers a pathway to a combined MS/Dietetic Internship, with state licensure potentially required.
- Accredited through 2026.
- Prepares for CDR exam.
- Combines theory and practice.
- Thriving job market for RDNs.
- Located in Pocatello, ID.
- Offers combined MS/Internship.
- State licensure may apply.
- Focus on food and nutrition.
- Career opportunities in various sectors.
- Accredited by ACEND.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Idaho State University's Master of Science in Nutrition is a hybrid program offering flexibility with 100% online classes and part-time or full-time options. This 30-credit degree focuses on advanced topics like nutritional epidemiology and maternal and child nutrition, emphasizing research through capstone or thesis work. It prepares graduates for roles in nutrition research and public health. No entrance exam is required for admission, as it is not specified, and the program has a 3.0 GPA requirement.
- Hybrid 30-credit master's program
- 100% online class delivery
- Flexible part-time/full-time options
- Research-focused curriculum
- Capstone or thesis options
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Public health nutrition emphasis
- Diverse learning strategies
- Written and oral comprehensive exams
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition/Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Public Health Emphasis - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Idaho State University's Master of Science in Nutrition/Dietetic Internship with a Public Health Emphasis is a 16-month hybrid program combining 33 credit hours of coursework with 1,240 hours of supervised clinical practice. It includes a capstone project and prepares students for certification in dietetics. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and a Bachelor's in Dietetics, with no entrance exam specified. This program focuses on public health nutrition, offering hands-on training in various healthcare settings.
- 16-month full-time program
- Hybrid learning model
- 1,240 hours supervised practice
- Public Health concentration
- Capstone project required
- 33 total credit hours
- Multiple campus locations
- GPA requirement: 3.0
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID - Public 4-Year - uidaho.edu
Master's - M.S. Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Idaho's M.S. in Nutritional Sciences is Idaho's sole advanced degree in this field, offering both thesis and non-thesis tracks. Students engage in hands-on research using the Carmelita Spencer Foods Laboratory and collaborate with expert faculty, preparing for careers in healthcare, research, and education. The program emphasizes conference presentations and networking, with no entrance exam required for admission.
- Idaho's only M.S. in Nutritional Sciences.
- Thesis and non-thesis options available.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Access to Carmelita Spencer Foods Laboratory.
- Collaborate with accomplished faculty.
- Present research at conferences.
- Diverse career preparation.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- Comprehensive nutrition curriculum.
- Networking and club participation.
North Idaho College
Coeur d'Alene, ID - Public 2-Year - nic.edu
Associate - Pre-Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
North Idaho College's Pre-Nutrition Associate of Science degree is an on-campus program ideal for students aiming to transfer to the University of Idaho - Coeur d'Alene for a bachelor's in Food and Nutrition. It requires no entrance exam for this associate level. The curriculum emphasizes human nutrition, microbiology, and anatomy, fostering critical thinking and scientific skills through hands-on experiences in advanced facilities. With 60-62 credits, it prepares for further studies in dietetics, focusing on health and tailored transfer requirements.
- Associate of Science degree
- Transfer program to University of Idaho
- Focus on human nutrition and health
- Campus-based learning
- Hands-on science courses
- Prepares for bachelor's in Food and Nutrition
- Tailored transfer requirements
- Critical thinking emphasis
- State-of-the-art facilities
- 60-62 total credits
2026 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in Idaho
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Idaho State University |
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| North Idaho College |
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| University of Idaho |
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Programs by Area - Associate, Bachelors, Masters
Coeur d'Alene, ID
North Idaho College
- Associate - Pre-Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- Associate of Science degree
- Transfer program to University of Idaho
- Focus on human nutrition and health
- Campus-based learning
- Hands-on science courses
- Prepares for bachelor's in Food and Nutrition
- Tailored transfer requirements
- Critical thinking emphasis
Moscow, ID
University of Idaho
- Master's - M.S. Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Website
- Idaho's only M.S. in Nutritional Sciences.
- Thesis and non-thesis options available.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Access to Carmelita Spencer Foods Laboratory.
- Collaborate with accomplished faculty.
- Present research at conferences.
- Diverse career preparation.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
Pocatello, ID
Idaho State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited through 2026.
- Prepares for CDR exam.
- Combines theory and practice.
- Thriving job market for RDNs.
- Located in Pocatello, ID.
- Offers combined MS/Internship.
- State licensure may apply.
- Focus on food and nutrition.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid 30-credit master's program
- 100% online class delivery
- Flexible part-time/full-time options
- Research-focused curriculum
- Capstone or thesis options
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Public health nutrition emphasis
- Diverse learning strategies
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition/Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Public Health Emphasis - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month full-time program
- Hybrid learning model
- 1,240 hours supervised practice
- Public Health concentration
- Capstone project required
- 33 total credit hours
- Multiple campus locations
- GPA requirement: 3.0
How to Choose the Best Program for You
Quick Selection Guide
Choose Idaho State University for comprehensive dietetic preparation and ACEND accreditation.
ISU offers Idaho’s premier dietetics program featuring ACEND accreditation through 2026, comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Dietetics with RDN preparation, combined MS/Dietetic Internship pathway, hybrid Master’s programs with 100% online classes, flexible part-time and full-time options, 16-month intensive MS/DI program with 1,240 supervised practice hours, and multiple campus locations providing accessibility across Idaho.
Select University of Idaho for advanced research excellence and unique graduate opportunities.
U of I provides Idaho’s only Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences, offering both thesis and non-thesis tracks, hands-on research opportunities, access to state-of-the-art Carmelita Spencer Foods Laboratory, collaboration with distinguished faculty, conference presentation opportunities, comprehensive nutrition curriculum, and preparation for leadership roles in nutrition science and public health research.
Consider North Idaho College for affordable foundation and seamless transfer preparation.
NIC offers exceptional value Pre-Nutrition Associate of Science degree ($4,000-$6,000 in-state), structured transfer pathway to University of Idaho-Coeur d’Alene, strong foundation in human nutrition and microbiology, campus-based learning with modern facilities, hands-on science courses, 60-62 credit comprehensive curriculum, and cost-effective preparation for bachelor’s degree advancement.
Types of Programs
Associate Level
North Idaho College: Pre-Nutrition Associate of Science degree (60-62 credits) designed specifically for students planning to transfer into bachelor’s nutrition programs, featuring comprehensive foundation coursework in human nutrition, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry fundamentals, and critical thinking development with structured transfer requirements ensuring seamless advancement to University of Idaho-Coeur d’Alene.
Bachelor’s Level Professional Preparation
Idaho State University: Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (ACEND-accredited through 2026) providing comprehensive preparation for registered dietitian nutritionist careers, integrating theoretical coursework with practical experiences, emphasizing food and nutrition science, preparing graduates for CDR credentialing examination, and offering pathway to combined MS/Dietetic Internship for accelerated professional advancement.
Graduate Level Advanced Studies
Idaho State University: Multiple graduate options featuring:
- Master of Science in Nutrition (30 credits, hybrid delivery with 100% online classes)
- Master of Science in Nutrition/Dietetic Internship with Public Health Emphasis (16-month intensive program, 33 credits, 1,240 supervised practice hours)
University of Idaho: Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences representing Idaho’s only advanced degree in nutritional sciences, offering thesis and non-thesis tracks, research-intensive curriculum, access to cutting-edge facilities, and preparation for leadership roles in nutrition science and public health.
Admission and Requirements
Entrance Exam Policies
Idaho programs demonstrate varied standardized testing approaches:
ACT/SAT Required: Idaho State University (Bachelor’s), North Idaho College GRE Required: Idaho State University (MS/Dietetic Internship), University of Idaho (MS Nutritional Sciences) No GRE Required: Idaho State University (Master of Science in Nutrition)
Academic Performance Standards
Associate Programs:
- North Idaho College: Standard community college admission with focus on science preparation
Undergraduate Programs:
- Idaho State University: Competitive admission for ACEND-accredited dietetics program requiring strong science foundation
Graduate Programs:
- Idaho State University: 3.0 GPA requirement for all master’s programs
- University of Idaho: Competitive admission with research interest emphasis
Professional Prerequisites
Programs typically require comprehensive academic preparation including:
- Strong science foundation (chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, microbiology)
- Mathematics and statistics competency
- Research methodology exposure (graduate programs)
- Professional commitment demonstration for coordinated programs
- Academic excellence in prerequisite coursework
Financial Investment
Outstanding Affordability Champion
North Idaho College: Exceptional community college value:
- In-state: $4,000-$6,000 annually
- Out-of-state: $7,000-$10,500 annually
- Cost-effective foundation preparation with guaranteed transfer pathway
Competitive Public University Pricing
Idaho State University: Comprehensive value across program levels:
- Undergraduate in-state: $6,700-$10,000 annually
- Graduate in-state: $9,000-$13,500 annually
- Undergraduate non-resident: $22,000-$33,000 annually
- Graduate non-resident: $24,100-$36,200 annually
University of Idaho: Graduate program investment:
- Graduate in-state: $8,400-$12,700 annually
- Graduate non-resident: $23,800-$35,700 annually
- Research assistantship opportunities available for qualified students
Financial Aid and Support
Idaho programs provide multiple funding opportunities:
- In-state tuition advantages for Idaho residents
- Graduate assistantships and research funding (University of Idaho)
- Work-study opportunities across campuses
- Merit-based scholarships for qualified students
Learning Formats and Flexibility
Innovative Hybrid Learning
Idaho State University: Sophisticated blended delivery systems:
- Master of Science in Nutrition: 100% online classes with flexible part-time/full-time options
- MS/Dietetic Internship: Hybrid model combining online coursework with hands-on practicum rotations
- Multiple campus locations providing accessibility across Idaho
Traditional Campus Excellence
North Idaho College: Comprehensive campus-based experience:
- Modern facilities and state-of-the-art laboratories
- Hands-on science courses with practical application
- Small class sizes ensuring personalized attention
- Campus-based learning fostering student engagement
University of Idaho: Research-intensive campus environment:
- Access to Carmelita Spencer Foods Laboratory
- Cutting-edge facilities supporting advanced research
- Faculty collaboration opportunities
- Conference presentation and networking experiences
Professional Practice Integration
Idaho State University MS/Dietetic Internship: Intensive practical preparation:
- 16-month full-time program combining education and experience
- 1,240 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Multiple rotation sites across Idaho
- Capstone project requirement demonstrating competency
Career Outcome Projections
Professional Credential Preparation
Idaho State University provides comprehensive RDN preparation:
- ACEND accreditation ensuring eligibility for CDR examination
- Combined MS/Dietetic Internship pathway offering accelerated credentialing
- Public health emphasis addressing community nutrition needs
- Diverse career preparation in healthcare, public health, and corporate wellness
Research and Advanced Study Excellence
University of Idaho offers unique research opportunities:
- Idaho’s only Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
- Thesis track preparation for doctoral studies
- Research collaboration with distinguished faculty
- Conference presentation experience building professional portfolios
Transfer and Advancement Success
North Idaho College ensures seamless educational progression:
- Structured transfer pathway to University of Idaho-Coeur d’Alene
- Strong foundation preparation for bachelor’s degree success
- Cost-effective route to advanced nutrition education
Specialized Career Pathways
Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Excellence
Idaho State University provides comprehensive clinical preparation:
- ACEND-accredited Bachelor’s program ensuring professional standards
- Combined MS/Dietetic Internship offering advanced clinical training
- 1,240 hours supervised practice in diverse healthcare settings
- CDR examination preparation with proven success outcomes
Research and Nutrition Science Leadership
University of Idaho offers unparalleled research preparation:
- Idaho’s exclusive Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
- Hands-on research opportunities in cutting-edge laboratories
- Faculty mentorship in nutrition science and public health research
- Preparation for leadership roles in academic and research institutions
Public Health and Community Nutrition
Idaho State University MS/DI with Public Health Emphasis specializes in:
- Community nutrition intervention and program development
- Public health policy and population health improvement
- Scholarly research in community health challenges
- Preparation for public health nutrition leadership roles
Foundation and Transfer Excellence
North Idaho College Pre-Nutrition provides:
- Comprehensive foundation in nutrition science fundamentals
- Strong preparation for advanced bachelor’s degree programs
- Cost-effective pathway to professional nutrition education
- Regional accessibility for northern Idaho students
Program Selection Strategy
For Budget-Conscious Students Seeking Foundation
North Idaho College provides optimal value through affordable associate degree preparation, structured transfer pathway, comprehensive foundation coursework, and cost-effective route to bachelor’s degree advancement.
For Aspiring Registered Dietitians
Idaho State University offers complete professional preparation through ACEND-accredited bachelor’s program, combined MS/Dietetic Internship pathway, comprehensive clinical training, and proven CDR examination success.
For Research and Graduate Study Aspirations
University of Idaho provides unique opportunities through Idaho’s only MS in Nutritional Sciences, thesis and non-thesis options, cutting-edge research facilities, and distinguished faculty collaboration.
For Working Professionals Seeking Advancement
Idaho State University Master of Science in Nutrition offers flexible hybrid delivery, 100% online classes, part-time and full-time options, and professional development focus for career advancement.
For Comprehensive Public Health Preparation
Idaho State University MS/DI with Public Health Emphasis provides intensive 16-month preparation, 1,240 supervised practice hours, community nutrition focus, and scholarly research requirements.
Geographic and Accessibility Considerations
Statewide Program Access
Idaho’s nutrition programs strategically serve diverse geographic regions:
- Idaho State University: Multiple campus locations across southern and eastern Idaho
- University of Idaho: Moscow campus serving northern Idaho and Pacific Northwest region
- North Idaho College: Coeur d’Alene location providing access for northern Idaho residents
Transfer Pathway Optimization
Structured progression opportunities:
- North Idaho College to University of Idaho-Coeur d’Alene (seamless transfer)
- Idaho State University combined BS/MS pathways (accelerated advancement)
- Cross-institutional collaboration supporting student mobility
Rural and Remote Student Support
Idaho programs recognize unique challenges of rural student populations:
- Hybrid and online delivery options reducing travel requirements
- Multiple campus locations increasing accessibility
- Community college foundation programs serving local populations
- Financial aid emphasis supporting rural and first-generation students