Michigan offers a diverse range of nutrition degree programs, with tuition and program duration varying by school and degree level. A master’s degree typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 years to complete, with average annual tuition ranging from $13,000 to over $50,000 depending on residency.
Madonna University offers an ACEND-accredited Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics that can lead to RDN credentialing, while Central Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University provide fully online master’s programs focused on advanced nutritional science for professional development.
Wayne State University is recognized for its affordable graduate programs in Nutrition and Food Science, and Michigan State University offers various specializations at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Read on for more information about the top ranked schools.
2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Michigan
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI - Public 4-Year - wayne.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science provides a rigorous curriculum integrating biology, chemistry, and food science, with hands-on lab work and research. It prepares students for careers in dietetics, food safety, and public health, requiring 120 credits for completion. Admission follows university general education and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences standards, including potential ACT or SAT exams for bachelor's programs. Financial aid and scholarships support eligible students.
- 120 credits required.
- Hands-on laboratory work.
- Prepares for dietetics careers.
- Focus on food safety.
- Research opportunities available.
- Integrates biology and chemistry.
- Prepares for further medical studies.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships for eligible students.
- Campus-based program.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science focuses on non-technical roles like sales and food service management, with elective courses from business schools. It includes human nutrition and food science fundamentals, offering an honors program for research with faculty. Admission requires meeting general university standards, likely involving ACT or SAT exams for bachelor's entry, and provides career opportunities in various settings.
- Campus-based program
- Honors program available
- Electives from business school
- Focus on non-technical roles
- Career opportunities in diverse settings
- Includes human nutrition courses
- Food science fundamentals
- Management skills development
- Research opportunities with faculty
- Flexible elective options
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Science
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Science offers online and in-person options, covering biochemistry, genomics, and food safety without a GRE requirement. The 32-credit program includes a capstone or thesis, preparing graduates for diverse roles in healthcare and food industries. ACEND-accredited dietetic interns may receive credit waivers, and in-state tuition applies to online out-of-state students, enhancing accessibility.
- Online and in-person options.
- No GRE required.
- In-state tuition for online out-of-state students.
- 32 credits for completion.
- Capstone or thesis based.
- ACEND credits may be waived.
- Focus on practical skills.
- Covers biochemistry, genomics.
- Prepares for diverse careers.
- Flexible for working professionals.
Master's - Master of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Master of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science emphasizes nutrition, food safety, and human health, with applied research and prerequisites in food science and organic chemistry. It prepares for careers in clinical nutrition, food regulation, and community health, or doctoral studies. As a master's program, entrance exams may be required unless specified otherwise, but none are mentioned here.
- Campus-based program
- Focus on nutrition and food safety
- Prepares for healthcare and research careers
- Includes applied research opportunities
- Requires undergraduate prerequisites
- Skills in nutritional assessment
- Food system analysis training
- Health promotion through diet
- Career paths in clinical nutrition
- Opportunities in food regulation
Master's - Master of Science Coordinated Program in Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wayne State University's Master of Science Coordinated Program in Dietetics is a two-year, ACEND-accredited campus program with 1032 hours of supervised practice, focusing on evidence-based nutrition and medical therapy. It leads to high employment rates for registered dietitian nutritionists, requiring a bachelor's degree and specific prerequisites. For master's level, entrance exams might be needed, but the description does not specify any requirements.
- Two-year program duration.
- 1032 hours supervised practice.
- ACEND accredited since 1980.
- High employment rate post-graduation.
- Competitive admission process.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Focus on medical nutrition therapy.
- Diverse practice settings.
- Evidence-based curriculum.
- Located in Detroit, MI.
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI - Public 4-Year - msu.edu
Bachelor's - Nutritional Sciences
Concentration: Biomedical and Molecular Nutrition, Global Nutrition and Health, Public Health Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
Michigan State University's Nutritional Sciences bachelor's program offers concentrations in Biomedical and Molecular Nutrition, Global Nutrition and Health, and Public Health Nutrition, providing specialized knowledge for careers in healthcare and public health. Admission requires a high school diploma with course prerequisites and may involve ACT or SAT exams. The campus-based program emphasizes a strong science foundation and preventive nutrition approaches, preparing students for advanced studies like medical or dental schools, with affordable options for in-state students.
- Three concentrations available.
- Prepares for medical/dental schools.
- Strong science foundation.
- Focus on preventive nutrition.
- Career opportunities in healthcare.
- Affordable for in-state students.
- Admission requires high school diploma.
- Specialized knowledge in nutrition.
- Campus-based program.
- Emphasis on human health.
Master's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Michigan State University is a hybrid program accredited by ACEND, combining supervised practice with online coursework in research methods and clinical nutrition. Admission requires a Verification Statement from an ACEND-accredited DPD, a 3.0 GPA, and DICAS application, with no mention of entrance exams. This 30-credit program includes a master's project and prepares graduates for the Registration Examination for Dietitian Nutritionists, focusing on evidence-based practice and professional skill development.
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Hybrid program format.
- 30 credits required.
- Includes supervised practice.
- Eligible for registration exam.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- DICAS application process.
- Master's project included.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
- Develops professional skills.
Master's - Human Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
Michigan State University's Master of Science in Human Nutrition offers a comprehensive curriculum with thesis (Plan A) or non-thesis (Plan B) tracks, covering advanced nutrition, biochemistry, and statistics. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with prerequisites, a 3.0 GPA, personal statement, and references, with no mention of entrance exams. The campus-based program includes research opportunities and prepares graduates for careers in research, public health, and nutrition policy, emphasizing practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
- 30 credits required.
- Plan A or B available.
- Thesis or project option.
- Focus on advanced nutrition.
- Includes biochemistry, statistics.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Personal statement needed.
- Letters of reference required.
- Research methods included.
- Seminar participation.
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI - Public 4-Year - wmich.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Michigan University's B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited program emphasizing health promotion through nutrition. With an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a 95% internship acceptance rate, it prepares students for careers in healthcare, education, and public health. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and completion of pre-nutrition courses; no entrance exam like ACT or SAT is mentioned as required. Graduates are well-equipped for the RDN credential and benefit from a strong local professional network.
- ACEND accredited program.
- Low 18-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
- 95% internship acceptance rate.
- Campus-based learning.
- 3.0 GPA requirement for admission.
- Prepares for RDN credential.
- Strong local professional network.
- Focus on health promotion.
- Competitive internship placement.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
Master's - M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Michigan University's M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited, campus-based program that combines 30 graduate credits with supervised practice over 20 months. It targets current dietetic interns and RDNs, focusing on nutritional science, public health, and research. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay; no entrance exam is specified as required. Graduates are prepared for RDN certification and roles in healthcare, community settings, and food service management, with financial aid options available.
- 20-month program duration
- ACEND accredited
- Combines supervised practice
- 30 graduate credits required
- Campus-based learning
- For current interns and RDNs
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Resume and essay needed
- Letters of recommendation required
- Financial aid available
Master's - M.A. in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Dietetics
Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Michigan University's M.A. in Family and Consumer Sciences with a Dietetics concentration is designed for dietetic interns or registered dietitians seeking to enhance skills. The program includes 15 credit hours in nutritional science and 15 in areas like adult education and research methods. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, with probationary options for lower GPAs; no entrance exam is mentioned as required. It offers a campus-based, individualized approach to broaden expertise in dietetics.
- 15 credit hours in nutritional science
- 15 credit hours in complementary areas
- For dietetic interns or registered dietitians
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Individualized programs based on goals
- Campus-based program
- Focus on adult education and family studies
- Admission for registered dietitians
- Probationary status for GPA 2.5-2.99
- Combines professional skills with academic learning
Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MI - Private 4-year - andrews.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition Science & Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI, offers a Nutrition Science & Dietetics BS program with a general focus, accredited by ACEND to prepare students for careers as Registered Dietitians or graduate studies. Entry requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, and the curriculum includes courses in clinical dietetics, food-service management, and community nutrition. Students must complete a professional development portfolio and a comprehensive review exam. Graduation necessitates a 2.85 GPA and at least 124 semester hours. This on-campus program blends science prerequisites with professional coursework, ensuring eligibility for the dietetics registration exam.
- Accredited by ACEND
- Prepares for RD exam
- 3.0 GPA required
- 124 semester hours
- Includes clinical dietetics
- Food-service management
- Community nutrition courses
- Professional portfolio required
- Comprehensive review exam
- 2.85 GPA to graduate
Bachelor's - Nutrition Science & Dietetics
Concentration: Dietetics Emphasis - Campus Based - Visit Website
Andrews University's Nutrition Science & Dietetics BS with a Dietetics Emphasis is an ACEND-accredited program in Berrien Springs, MI, designed to prepare students for the Registered Dietitian exam. Entry requires a 3.0 GPA, and the curriculum covers clinical dietetics, food-service management, and community nutrition. Students must complete 200 hours of professional experience and pass a comprehensive review exam. Graduation demands a 2.85 overall GPA with no grade below C- in prerequisites. This on-campus program emphasizes practical training and eligibility for graduate studies in health fields.
- Dietetics Emphasis BS
- Prepares for RD exam
- 200 hours professional experience
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for entry
- ACEND accredited
- 124 semester hours for graduation
- Includes clinical dietetics courses
- Food-service management training
- Community nutrition education
- Comprehensive review exam required
Bachelor's - Nutrition Science & Dietetics
Concentration: Nutrition Science Emphasis - Campus Based - Visit Website
Andrews University offers a Nutrition Science & Dietetics BS with a Nutrition Science Emphasis, accredited by ACEND and focused on careers in nutrition, medicine, public health, and research. Entry requires a 3.0 GPA, and the program includes courses in clinical dietetics, food-service management, and community nutrition. Students complete a professional portfolio, 200 hours of experience, and a review exam. Graduation requires 124 semester hours and prepares for dietetics registration or advanced studies. This on-campus program emphasizes health promotion and service learning.
- Accredited by ACEND
- Minimum GPA 3.0 required
- Focus on nutrition science
- Prepares for dietetics registration
- Covers clinical dietetics
- Includes food-service management
- Community nutrition focus
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Health promotion emphasis
- Professional development portfolio required
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI - Public 4-Year - cmich.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Central Michigan University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is an online program accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, designed for advanced study in nutrition and clinical dietetics. It can be completed in 2.5 years with 31-37 credits and features synchronous classes, taught by nationally recognized faculty, many of whom are Registered Dietitians. The program does not lead to the RD designation but supports professional development with a high publication rate for capstone projects. Discounted tuition is available for military, veterans, and state employees. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Fully online program.
- 2.5 years completion.
- 31-37 total credits.
- Synchronous class delivery.
- High publication rate.
- Nationally recognized faculty.
- PhD faculty as Registered Dietitians.
- Discounted tuition available.
- Accredited by HLC.
- No RD designation.
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI - Public 4-Year - emich.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Michigan University's Master of Science in Human Nutrition is an online program launched in 2006, designed for professionals in healthcare, business, or education to deepen their nutrition expertise without pursuing the RDN credential. It emphasizes evidence-based science, critical thinking, and research skills, offering a flexible, student-centered learning environment that is nationally ranked. This program enhances career opportunities in human performance and healthcare fields. As a master's level program, it does not require an entrance exam such as the GRE, GMAT, or others, making it accessible for working professionals.
- Online program delivery
- No RDN credential
- Flexible for professionals
- Focus on evidence-based nutrition
- Enhances career opportunities
- Student-centered learning
- Critical thinking focus
- Research skills development
- Since 2006 online
Madonna University
Livonia, MI - Private 4-year - madonna.edu
Master's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Madonna University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited program designed to prepare students for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). It combines online instruction with small, interactive classes in a hybrid format, requiring 1000 hours of supervised practice. The curriculum includes a capstone research project in areas such as clinical nutrition, community health, and sports nutrition. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, specific prerequisites, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. An entrance exam is not required. Graduates are equipped for diverse roles in healthcare and public health.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 1000 supervised practice hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Capstone research project
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume and statement of purpose
- Prepares for RDN credential
- Diverse career opportunities
- Small, interactive classes
2026 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in MI
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Programs by City - Associate, Bachelors, Masters
Berrien Springs, MI
Andrews University
- Bachelor's - Nutrition Science & Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEND
- Prepares for RD exam
- 3.0 GPA required
- 124 semester hours
- Includes clinical dietetics
- Food-service management
- Community nutrition courses
- Professional portfolio required
- Bachelor's - Nutrition Science & Dietetics
Concentration: Dietetics Emphasis - Campus Based - Website
- Dietetics Emphasis BS
- Prepares for RD exam
- 200 hours professional experience
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for entry
- ACEND accredited
- 124 semester hours for graduation
- Includes clinical dietetics courses
- Food-service management training
- Bachelor's - Nutrition Science & Dietetics
Concentration: Nutrition Science Emphasis - Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEND
- Minimum GPA 3.0 required
- Focus on nutrition science
- Prepares for dietetics registration
- Covers clinical dietetics
- Includes food-service management
- Community nutrition focus
- Prepares for graduate studies
Detroit, MI
Wayne State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Honors program available
- Electives from business school
- Focus on non-technical roles
- Career opportunities in diverse settings
- Includes human nutrition courses
- Food science fundamentals
- Management skills development
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Website
- 120 credits required.
- Hands-on laboratory work.
- Prepares for dietetics careers.
- Focus on food safety.
- Research opportunities available.
- Integrates biology and chemistry.
- Prepares for further medical studies.
- Financial aid available.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Focus on nutrition and food safety
- Prepares for healthcare and research careers
- Includes applied research opportunities
- Requires undergraduate prerequisites
- Skills in nutritional assessment
- Food system analysis training
- Health promotion through diet
- Master's - Master of Science Coordinated Program in Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year program duration.
- 1032 hours supervised practice.
- ACEND accredited since 1980.
- High employment rate post-graduation.
- Competitive admission process.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Focus on medical nutrition therapy.
- Diverse practice settings.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Science
Online Learning - Website
- Online and in-person options.
- No GRE required.
- In-state tuition for online out-of-state students.
- 32 credits for completion.
- Capstone or thesis based.
- ACEND credits may be waived.
- Focus on practical skills.
- Covers biochemistry, genomics.
East Lansing, MI
Michigan State University
- Bachelor's - Nutritional Sciences
Concentration: Biomedical and Molecular Nutrition, Global Nutrition and Health, Public Health Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- Three concentrations available.
- Prepares for medical/dental schools.
- Strong science foundation.
- Focus on preventive nutrition.
- Career opportunities in healthcare.
- Affordable for in-state students.
- Admission requires high school diploma.
- Specialized knowledge in nutrition.
- Master's - Human Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- 30 credits required.
- Plan A or B available.
- Thesis or project option.
- Focus on advanced nutrition.
- Includes biochemistry, statistics.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Personal statement needed.
- Letters of reference required.
- Master's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Hybrid program format.
- 30 credits required.
- Includes supervised practice.
- Eligible for registration exam.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- DICAS application process.
- Master's project included.
Kalamazoo, MI
Western Michigan University
- Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND accredited program.
- Low 18-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
- 95% internship acceptance rate.
- Campus-based learning.
- 3.0 GPA requirement for admission.
- Prepares for RDN credential.
- Strong local professional network.
- Focus on health promotion.
- Master's - M.A. in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Dietetics
Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Website
- 15 credit hours in nutritional science
- 15 credit hours in complementary areas
- For dietetic interns or registered dietitians
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Individualized programs based on goals
- Campus-based program
- Focus on adult education and family studies
- Admission for registered dietitians
- Master's - M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- 20-month program duration
- ACEND accredited
- Combines supervised practice
- 30 graduate credits required
- Campus-based learning
- For current interns and RDNs
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Resume and essay needed
Livonia, MI
Madonna University
- Master's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- 1000 supervised practice hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Capstone research project
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume and statement of purpose
- Prepares for RDN credential
Mount Pleasant, MI
Central Michigan University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program.
- 2.5 years completion.
- 31-37 total credits.
- Synchronous class delivery.
- High publication rate.
- Nationally recognized faculty.
- PhD faculty as Registered Dietitians.
- Discounted tuition available.
Ypsilanti, MI
Eastern Michigan University
- Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- Online program delivery
- Nationally ranked
- No RDN credential
- Flexible for professionals
- Focus on evidence-based nutrition
- Enhances career opportunities
- Student-centered learning
- Critical thinking focus
Compare nutrition programs in Detroit.
Choosing the Right Program for You
Quick Selection Guide
Choose Wayne State University for comprehensive ACEND-accredited training and urban healthcare exposure.
WSU offers both Bachelor’s (BS/BA) and Master’s programs including MS Coordinated Program in Dietetics (ACEND-accredited since 1980, 1032 supervised hours) with high employment rates, online options with in-state tuition for out-of-state students, and diverse Detroit practice settings. Exceptional value at $12,400-$18,600 undergraduate in-state tuition.
Select Michigan State University for specialized concentrations and research excellence.
MSU provides Bachelor’s in Nutritional Sciences with three unique concentrations (Biomedical and Molecular Nutrition, Global Nutrition and Health, Public Health Nutrition) plus comprehensive Master’s options including ACEND-accredited Nutrition and Dietetics program. Strong pre-health preparation with competitive in-state pricing.
Consider Western Michigan University for personalized attention and outstanding outcomes.
WMU offers exceptional value with 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio, 95% internship acceptance rate, ACEND-accredited programs at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, and 20-month coordinated program combining graduate credits with supervised practice.
Choose specialized programs for unique needs. Central Michigan University for fully online Master’s with synchronous delivery, Eastern Michigan University for nationally recognized online Human Nutrition program, or Andrews University for faith-based ACEND-accredited education with comprehensive professional development.
Types of Programs
Bachelor’s Level Comprehensive Training
Wayne State University: Dual-track approach offering:
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science (120 credits) for technical careers in dietetics, food safety, and public health
- Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition and Food Science for non-technical roles in sales and food service management
Michigan State University: Nutritional Sciences program featuring three specialized concentrations:
- Biomedical and Molecular Nutrition for advanced research and medical school preparation
- Global Nutrition and Health for international and population health focus
- Public Health Nutrition for community and preventive nutrition applications
Western Michigan University: ACEND-accredited Bachelor’s in Nutrition and Dietetics with exceptional student support (18:1 ratio), 95% internship acceptance rate, and comprehensive RDN preparation.
Andrews University: Faith-based ACEND-accredited program offering:
- Dietetics Emphasis for direct RDN preparation (200 professional hours required)
- Nutrition Science Emphasis for graduate studies and health career preparation
Graduate Level Advanced Studies
Wayne State University: Comprehensive Master’s portfolio including:
- MS in Nutrition and Food Science (online/in-person, 32 credits, no GRE required)
- MS Coordinated Program in Dietetics (2 years, 1032 supervised hours, ACEND-accredited since 1980)
- MA in Nutrition and Food Science for healthcare and research careers
Michigan State University: Flexible graduate options featuring:
- MS in Nutrition and Dietetics (hybrid, ACEND-accredited, 30 credits with supervised practice)
- MS in Human Nutrition (thesis/non-thesis tracks, comprehensive research preparation)
Western Michigan University: Multiple pathways including:
- MS in Nutrition and Dietetics (20 months, ACEND-accredited, combines 30 credits with supervised practice)
- MA in Family and Consumer Sciences with Dietetics concentration (30 credits, holistic approach)
Central Michigan University: Fully online MS in Nutrition and Dietetics (31-37 credits, 2.5 years, synchronous delivery) with nationally recognized faculty and high publication rates.
Eastern Michigan University: Online MS in Human Nutrition (since 2006) designed for working professionals seeking career advancement without RDN credential pursuit.
Admissions and Requirements
Entrance Exam Policies
Michigan programs show varied approaches to standardized testing:
- ACT/SAT Required: Michigan State University, Andrews University undergraduate programs
- GRE Required: Michigan State University Human Nutrition program, Madonna University
- No GRE Required: Wayne State University, Central Michigan University, Western Michigan University programs, Michigan State Nutrition and Dietetics program
Academic Performance Standards
Undergraduate Programs:
- Andrews University: 3.0 GPA requirement for admission, 2.85 minimum graduation GPA
- Western Michigan University: 3.0 GPA requirement with pre-nutrition course completion
- Wayne State University: Standard university admission requirements
Graduate Programs:
- Michigan State University: 3.0 GPA requirement with DICAS application for coordinated programs
- Wayne State University: Competitive admission for coordinated program, bachelor’s degree required
- Western Michigan University: 3.0 GPA requirement (probationary status available for 2.5-2.99 GPA)
Professional Prerequisites
Programs typically require:
- DPD verification statements for dietetic internship programs
- Science coursework (organic chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry)
- DICAS application process for ACEND-accredited coordinated programs
- Professional experience hours for some programs (Andrews University requires 200 hours)
Financial Investment
Outstanding Public University Value
Wayne State University: Exceptional affordability with in-state undergraduate tuition at $12,400-$18,600, plus unique benefit of in-state tuition rates for online out-of-state students at graduate level.
Michigan State University: Competitive in-state pricing ($13,800-$20,700 undergraduate, $16,900-$25,400 graduate) with world-class research opportunities and specialized concentrations.
Western Michigan University: Strong value proposition with personalized attention (18:1 ratio), exceptional outcomes (95% internship acceptance), and comprehensive ACEND-accredited programs.
Private University Investment
Andrews University: Faith-based education with ACEND accreditation, comprehensive professional development including portfolio compilation and review exams.
Madonna University: Premium ACEND-accredited program with hybrid learning, small interactive classes, and 1000 supervised practice hours.
Specialized Online Programs
Central Michigan University: Competitive online pricing ($13,000-$19,600) with synchronous delivery, military/veteran discounts, and nationally recognized faculty.
Eastern Michigan University: Established online program (since 2006) designed for working professionals with flexible, evidence-based curriculum.
Career Outcome Projections
Michigan programs demonstrate strong professional prospects:
- High employment rates post-graduation (Wayne State coordinated program)
- 95% internship acceptance rate (Western Michigan University)
- ACEND accreditation ensuring RDN eligibility across multiple institutions
- Strong alumni networks throughout Michigan’s healthcare system
Learning Formats and Flexibility
Comprehensive Online Excellence
Central Michigan University: Fully online program with synchronous class delivery, allowing real-time interaction while maintaining flexibility for working professionals.
Wayne State University: Online Master’s options with in-state tuition benefits for out-of-state students, capstone or thesis flexibility.
Eastern Michigan University: Nationally recognized online program specifically designed for working professionals with student-centered approach.
Hybrid Learning Innovation
Michigan State University: Hybrid Nutrition and Dietetics program combining online coursework with supervised practice in Michigan locations.
Madonna University: Unique hybrid approach blending online coursework with intimate, interactive classroom sessions and supervised practice.
Campus-Based Comprehensive Experience
Traditional campus programs featuring:
- Low student-to-faculty ratios (18:1 at Western Michigan)
- Hands-on laboratory experiences and research opportunities
- Detroit urban healthcare exposure (Wayne State)
- Professional development portfolios and comprehensive exams
Career Specializations
Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics
Multiple ACEND-accredited programs provide comprehensive clinical training:
- Medical nutrition therapy and patient counseling
- Supervised practice experiences (1000-1032 hours)
- RDN examination preparation with high success rates
- Diverse clinical settings including hospitals and healthcare facilities
Research and Molecular Nutrition
Michigan State University: Biomedical and Molecular Nutrition concentration offering cutting-edge research opportunities and preparation for advanced degrees in nutrition science.
Global and Public Health Nutrition
Michigan State University: Specialized concentrations in Global Nutrition and Health, and Public Health Nutrition addressing population-level nutrition challenges and international health issues.
Food Science and Safety
Wayne State University: Comprehensive food science integration covering food safety, manufacturing, and regulatory aspects with practical laboratory experience.
Sports and Performance Nutrition
Madonna University: Specialized training in sports nutrition applications and performance enhancement strategies.
Community and Wellness Nutrition
Programs emphasizing population health:
- Community nutrition programming and implementation
- Health promotion and disease prevention strategies
- Food service management and institutional nutrition
- Wellness industry applications and entrepreneurship