2027 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Minnesota
St Catherine University
Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - stkate.edu
Bachelor's - Applied Science in Nutrition Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Catherine University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science builds a strong foundation in chemistry, biochemistry, and physiology, integrating these sciences with advanced nutrition coursework. The curriculum prepares students for entry-level positions or graduate study, and a standout 3+2 dual-degree option allows completion of a Master of Public Health with a global health focus in five years. Students take pre-public health courses and apply to the MPH during their junior year, receiving the BS after the first year of graduate work. This campus-based program is enriched by the university's Roman Catholic identity and military-friendly policies. Standardized testing requirements are not mentioned; check admissions for details.
- 3+2 dual-degree with MPH
- Foundation in chemistry, biochemistry, physiology
- Prepares for graduate or professional programs
- Global health focus
- Apply to MPH during junior year
- Receive BS after first year of MPH
- Pre-public health sequence
- Entry-level job preparation
Bachelor's - Applied Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Catherine University's Applied Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is a pre-professional bachelor's program designed for students pursuing a career as a registered dietitian. Offered exclusively within the College for Women, the curriculum includes Food as Medicine, Sports Nutrition, and Biomedical Ethics, alongside foundational courses in anatomy, chemistry, psychology, and microbiology. A distinctive 3+2 dual-degree structure lets you earn a bachelor's and master's in five years. The program requires 125 volunteer hours and a 3.0 GPA, and it explicitly states that no entrance exam is required. Small classes and dedicated faculty support success. Financial aid and prerequisite courses are also available.
- No entrance exam required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Dual-degree 3+2 pathway
- Earn Bachelor's in three years
- 125 required volunteer hours
- Only in College for Women
Bachelor's - Bachelor's Degree in Nutrition Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science at St. Catherine University combines foundational sciences—chemistry, microbiology, anatomy, and physiology—with coursework exploring the impact of food on health and disease. Students engage in hands-on clinical experiences, collaborate with faculty on research, and complete internships, building practical skills. Graduates are prepared for careers in community nutrition, wellness coaching, or the food industry, as well as for advanced study toward dietetics. An optional 3+2 dual-degree track enables students to earn a master's degree in just five years. The program emphasizes interprofessional education and social responsibility. Scholarships and financial aid are available. No entrance exam requirement is specified.
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Faculty research collaboration
- Engaging internships
- 3+2 dual degree option
- Strong science foundation
- Covers community nutrition to metabolism
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
St. Catherine University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited, 21-month full-time program consisting of 48 credits. The curriculum covers advanced nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, lifecycle nutrition, foodservice management, and applied research, complemented by 1,035 hours of supervised experiential rotations at diverse clinical and community sites near the Twin Cities. Students develop skills in nutrition education, counseling, and culinary solutions, with interprofessional learning spanning health science disciplines. The program emphasizes social justice and health equity, and a small cohort ensures close faculty mentorship. Tuition totals $39,000 ($760 per credit), with financial aid available. Prerequisite courses are required; no entrance exam requirement is stated, and graduates are prepared for the RDN registration exam.
- ACEND accredited
- $39,000 total program tuition
- $760 per credit
- 21-Month program
- 48 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 1035 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for Registration Examination for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Mankato, MN - Public 4-Year - mnsu.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Minnesota State University-Mankato blends rigorous academics with practical training in a modern Foods Lab. Coursework covers medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and food service management. This 120-credit program includes 40 upper-division credits and requires a 2.5 minimum GPA. A standout feature is the five-year combined BS/MS pathway, allowing students to earn both degrees efficiently. Students gain 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning and can join the Student Dietetic and Nutrition Organization for networking. Graduates are prepared to pursue RDN licensure and careers as clinical dietitians, community nutritionists, or food service managers. The program does not specify an ACT/SAT entrance exam requirement; applicants should verify current admission policies.
- 120 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- State-of-the-art Foods Lab
- Student Dietetic and Nutrition Organization
- Combined BS and MS in 5 years
- Prepares for RDN licensure
- 1000 hours supervised experiential learning
- Career paths: clinical, community, management
- 40 credits of upper-division coursework
- Real-world learning in Foods Lab
Master's - Dietetics
Online Learning - Visit Website
The MS in Dietetics at Minnesota State University-Mankato is an ACEND-accredited, competency-based program that integrates coursework with 1,000 hours of supervised practice. Designed for recent graduates and career changers, it offers multiple entry pathways, including a transitional option for undergraduates. The 40-credit curriculum delivers advanced nutrition science, medical nutrition therapy, and food systems management. With rolling admissions and three start dates per year (fall, spring, summer), plus graduate assistantships and financial aid, it's accessible to many learners. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam and become registered dietitian nutritionists in hospitals, clinics, or community settings. The program does not require a GRE or other entrance exam, though prerequisite courses are necessary.
- ACEND accredited
- 2-Year program
- 40 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 1000 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for Commission on Dietetic Registration credentialing exam
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN - Public 4-Year - twin-cities.umn.edu
Master's - Nutrition Graduate Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers a Master of Science in Nutrition designed for students pursuing research-intensive careers in nutritional science. Coursework covers vitamin and mineral biochemistry, nutritional genetics, physiology, and biostatistics, with a choice between thesis-based (Plan A) and project-based (Plan B) completion paths. Graduates often become registered dietitian nutritionists, researchers, community health advocates, corporate wellness specialists, or educators. The program typically takes 2.3 years to complete and enrolls only 9 students, ensuring individualized faculty mentorship and hands-on research. This collaborative environment emphasizes ethical, innovative approaches to improving health through nutrition. Entrance exam requirements, such as the GRE, are not specified in the program description.
- Prepares for RDN credential
- Nutrition researcher career
- 2.3 years average completion
- 9 current MS students
Winona State University
Winona, MN - Public 4-Year - winona.edu
Bachelor's - Public Health: Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
Winona State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Health: Nutrition, blending nutrition science with community health practice. Students examine cultural dietary influences, nutrient function, and community intervention design, including advanced coursework in digestion, metabolism, and disease prevention. The program includes over 600 hours of practicum and internship work in clinics, schools, and public health agencies. As Minnesota's only public bachelor's in this field, it also provides a 3+2 dual-degree path to earn a BA and MPH in five years. Graduates achieve a 90% placement rate, becoming community nutritionists, dietitians, or RDNs. Study abroad options and $20,000 in annual scholarships enhance the experience. ACT/SAT requirements are not specified.
- 120 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- 90% job placement rate
- 600 clinical hours
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Only public bachelor's in Minnesota
- 600+ practicum and internship hours
- $20,000+ scholarships annually
- Study abroad in Peru, Hawaii, England
North Hennepin Community College
Brooklyn Park, MN - Public 2-Year - nhcc.edu
Associate - Nutrition Associate of Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Hennepin Community College offers an Associate of Science in Nutrition designed for seamless transfer to a bachelor's program in nutrition, food science, or allied health. This 60-credit, four-semester degree blends foundational biology, chemistry, and math with specialized courses such as Nutrition, Socio-Cultural Aspects of Nutrition, and Life Cycle Nutrition. Students examine evidence-based research on how diet affects health, disease prevention, and performance across the lifespan, with emphasis on cultural humility and social determinants of dietary choices. The program prepares graduates for careers in public health or community nutrition and guarantees transfer to Minnesota State University Mankato. Delivered in-person or hybrid, with part-time options, the program features affordable tuition, financial aid, and North Star Promise scholarship eligibility, making it accessible for future nutrition professionals.
- 4-Semester program
- 60 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Articulation with Minnesota State University Mankato
- Foundational biology, chemistry, and math
- Explore nutrition science and culture
- Prepares for bachelor's degree transfer
- In-person and hybrid delivery
2027 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in Minnesota
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Winona State University |
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| Minnesota State University-Mankato |
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| North Hennepin Community College |
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Choosing the Right Program for You
Quick Selection Guide
Choose University of Minnesota-Twin Cities for research excellence and graduate study focus.
UMN offers rigorous Nutrition Graduate Program with both Master’s (MS) and Doctoral (PhD) options, emphasizing ethical research practices, innovation, and preparation for careers in research and public health policy. Features competitive admission, financial support availability, and strong academic foundation requirements for serious nutrition science researchers.
Select Winona State University for comprehensive public health nutrition training and unique experiential learning.
WSU provides the only Minnesota public university nutrition program with exceptional value ($8,400-$12,600 in-state), featuring 600+ hours internship experience, community-based learning, 3+2 dual graduate studies option, and comprehensive preparation for RDN credentialing with 120 degree credits.
Consider St. Catherine University for accelerated pathways and social justice focus.
St. Kate’s offers innovative 3+2 dual-degree programs, ACEND-accredited Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics (21 months, 48 credits), and unique focus on social justice and health equity. Features interprofessional learning opportunities and diverse clinical partnerships with $760 per credit graduate tuition.
Choose Minnesota State University-Mankato for integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s pathway and clinical excellence.
MNSU provides unique combined BS/MS in Dietetics completed in five years for incoming freshmen, featuring supervised experiential learning, state-of-the-art Foods Lab, emphasis on diversity and inclusion, and comprehensive preparation for RDN examination and Minnesota licensure.
Types of Programs
Associate Level Foundation Programs
North Hennepin Community College: Hybrid Nutrition Associate of Science degree (four-semester completion, $4,000-$6,100) combining online and in-person learning with foundational science courses, cultural and life-stage nutritional perspectives, and preparation for bachelor’s degree advancement in nutrition or allied-health fields.
Bachelor’s Level Comprehensive Training
Winona State University: Public Health: Nutrition degree (120 credits, 91 program-specific) offering unique population health focus with 600+ hours internship experience, community-based learning opportunities, and comprehensive nutrition science curriculum preparing for RDN credentialing.
St. Catherine University: Multiple bachelor’s options including:
- Applied Science in Nutrition Science with 3+2 dual-degree MPH option and global health focus
- Applied Science in Nutrition and Dietetics with accelerated pathway to MSDT
- Exercise Science and Nutrition integrating fitness, wellness, and sports nutrition
Minnesota State University-Mankato: Comprehensive Nutrition and Dietetics program offering combined Bachelor’s/Master’s pathway completed in five years with supervised experiential learning and state-of-the-art facilities.
Graduate Level Advanced Studies
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: Research-focused Nutrition Graduate Program offering both Master’s and Doctoral degrees with emphasis on dietary impacts, human health research, and preparation for careers in nutrition science and public health policy.
St. Catherine University: ACEND-accredited Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (21 months, 48 credits, 1,035 supervised hours) emphasizing social justice, health equity, and interprofessional learning with diverse clinical partnerships.
Minnesota State University-Mankato: Master of Science in Dietetics allowing early graduate credit earning with one-year post-bachelor completion, focusing on medical nutrition therapy, community health, and evidence-based practice.
Admission and Requirements
Entrance Exam Policies
Minnesota programs show varied approaches to standardized testing:
- ACT/SAT Required: St. Catherine University undergraduate programs, Minnesota State University-Mankato
- No GRE Required: Minnesota State University-Mankato graduate program
- Competitive Academic Standards: University of Minnesota requires solid academic foundation for graduate admission
Academic Performance Standards
Undergraduate Programs:
- St. Catherine University: 3.0 GPA requirement for nutrition and dietetics dual-degree program
- Minnesota State University-Mankato: Standard university admission for combined pathway
- Winona State University: Accessible public university admission standards
Graduate Programs:
- University of Minnesota: Competitive admission with strong academic requirements
- St. Catherine University: Professional program admission standards for ACEND-accredited program
- Minnesota State University-Mankato: Flexible admission for continuing undergraduates
Professional Prerequisites
Programs typically require:
- Strong science foundation (chemistry, biochemistry, physiology)
- Academic preparation in nutrition-related coursework
- Research interest (University of Minnesota graduate programs)
- Professional commitment for ACEND-accredited coordinated programs
Financial Investment
Outstanding Affordability Options
North Hennepin Community College: Exceptional value at $4,000-$6,100 for associate degree providing foundational preparation and transfer pathway to bachelor’s programs.
Winona State University: Outstanding public university value at $8,400-$12,600 in-state tuition for comprehensive nutrition program with extensive experiential learning and RDN preparation.
Competitive Public University Pricing
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: Research university excellence at public university pricing with financial aid opportunities and graduate assistantship possibilities for advanced degree programs.
Minnesota State University-Mankato: Integrated five-year pathway providing efficient completion of both bachelor’s and master’s degrees at public university rates.
Private University Investment
St. Catherine University: Premium pricing ($30,100-$45,100 undergraduate, $14,900-$22,300 graduate) justified by innovative dual-degree pathways, ACEND accreditation, social justice focus, and comprehensive professional preparation.
Career Outcome Projections
Minnesota programs demonstrate strong professional prospects:
- RDN examination preparation through multiple ACEND-accredited options
- Research career pathways through University of Minnesota graduate programs
- Public health opportunities through Winona State’s unique population health focus
- Minnesota licensure preparation ensuring local career readiness
Learning Formats and Flexibility
Innovative Hybrid Learning
North Hennepin Community College: Flexible hybrid delivery combining online convenience with in-person laboratory experiences, accommodating diverse student schedules while maintaining program quality.
Comprehensive Campus-Based Experience
Most Minnesota programs offer traditional campus-based learning featuring:
- State-of-the-art facilities including Foods Labs and clinical simulation areas
- Extensive internship opportunities (600+ hours at Winona State)
- Research collaboration with faculty experts
- Professional organization engagement and networking
Accelerated Completion Options
- St. Catherine University: 3+2 dual-degree pathways enabling efficient bachelor’s/master’s completion
- Minnesota State University-Mankato: Five-year combined BS/MS pathway for incoming freshmen
- North Hennepin Community College: Four-semester associate degree completion
Career Specializations
Research and Nutrition Science
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: Comprehensive preparation for careers in nutrition research, public health policy, and academic positions with emphasis on ethical research practices and innovation.
Public Health and Community Nutrition
Winona State University: Unique focus on population health with comprehensive curriculum covering nutrition science, cultural dietary practices, and community health improvement strategies.
Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics
Multiple ACEND-accredited programs provide comprehensive clinical training:
- Medical nutrition therapy and patient counseling
- Supervised experiential learning (1,000+ hours)
- RDN examination preparation with proven success rates
- Minnesota licensure preparation for local practice
Social Justice and Health Equity
St. Catherine University: Distinctive emphasis on social justice and health equity within nutrition practice, preparing graduates to address health disparities and promote equitable food access.
Exercise and Sports Nutrition
St. Catherine University: Specialized Exercise Science and Nutrition program integrating fitness, wellness, and sports nutrition with preparation for ACSM certification.
Diversity and Inclusion
Minnesota State University-Mankato: Strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency within nutrition practice, preparing graduates for work with diverse populations.