Alabama faces critical nutrition challenges that demand qualified professionals. With 17% of adults and 23% of children experiencing food insecurity—making Alabama the sixth poorest state in the U.S.—the need for nutrition experts has never been greater. Food insecurity disproportionately affects communities of color, with 26% of Black individuals in Alabama facing food insecurity compared to 10% of white individuals.
Why Alabama is ideal for nutrition careers
- High demand: Rising health awareness and chronic disease management drive increasing need for nutrition professionals
- Diverse settings: Opportunities span hospitals, schools, wellness centers, and private practice
- Competitive compensation: Registered dietitians in Alabama earn an average of $65,000 annually ($32.55/hour)
- Advanced education requirement: Starting January 2024, aspiring dietitians must obtain a master’s degree for RDN credential, increasing professional value
Whether you aim to counsel patients, design school meal programs, or develop statewide healthy-eating campaigns, Alabama’s nutrition programs provide the clinical rotations, research opportunities, and professional networks to transform your passion into a thriving career that directly impacts your community’s health.
2025 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Alabama
Looking for the best nutrition degree programs in Alabama? nutritiondegrees.org has you covered. Our rankings highlight top schools offering quality education in nutrition. We focus on programs that prepare students for successful careers. Our list is based on careful research and clear criteria. Want to know how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for details. Start your journey in nutrition with a program that fits your goals.
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Bachelor's - Food and Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's online Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition, one of 11 ACEND-accredited distance programs in the U.S., offers flexibility for working adults. This 120-credit hour program prepares students for registered dietitian careers with coursework in nutrition science and food service management. A minimum 2.0 GPA is required for transfer students, and no ACT/SAT is needed.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 120 credit hours
- $385 per credit hour
- Online format
- No ACT/SAT required
- 2.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prepares for RDN exam
- Covers nutrition and health
- Includes food service management
- Flexible for working adults
Bachelor's - Food and Nutrition + Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD)
Concentration: Didactic Program in Dietetics - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's online Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition, with a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) concentration, prepares students for registered dietitian careers. This ACEND-accredited, 120-credit hour program blends nutrition science with practical education. A 2.0 GPA is required for transfer students; ACT/SAT scores may be waived.
- ACEND-accredited program.
- 100% online format.
- 120 credit hours required.
- $385 tuition per hour.
- 2.0 GPA for admission.
- No ACT/SAT for some.
- Prepares for dietitian careers.
- Focus on nutrition science.
- Includes DPD concentration.
- Flexible for working adults.
Bachelor's - Food and Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Sciences - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's on-campus Nutrition Sciences concentration within the Food and Nutrition program prepares students for medical school and other health professions. This program focuses on biochemistry, community nutrition, and medical nutrition therapy, providing a strong foundation in food and nutrition sciences with hands-on research experience.
- Focus on medical school prep.
- Strong science foundation.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Covers biochemistry, nutrition.
- Ideal for healthcare careers.
- No dietitian registration.
- Practical skills emphasized.
- Admission requires science aptitude.
Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's online and on-campus Master of Science in Human Nutrition offers Generalist, Community, and Clinical tracks. This 30-credit hour program suits registered dietitians and those with a nutrition bachelor's degree seeking advanced research skills. A 3.0 GPA is required, but the GRE is waived.
- 30 credit-hour program
- Online and on-campus options
- Generalist, Community, or Clinical tracks
- No GRE required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prerequisites for non-ACEND degrees
- Core research and nutrition courses
- Electives available
- Capstone experience included
- Prepares for advanced practice
Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Concentration: Clinical - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Master of Science in Human Nutrition, with a Clinical concentration, prepares nutrition professionals for advanced practice or doctoral studies. This 30-credit hour online and on-campus program focuses on research skills and advanced nutritional knowledge, covering topics like energy nutrient metabolism and advanced vitamin and mineral metabolism. A 3.0 GPA and prerequisites are required, but no GRE.
- 30 credit-hour program.
- Clinical Concentration available.
- Online and on-campus options.
- GPA requirement of 3.0.
- No GRE required.
- Prepares for doctoral study.
- Focus on research skills.
- Up-to-date nutrition knowledge.
- Specific prerequisites required.
- Courses in metabolism.
Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Concentration: Community - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Master of Science in Human Nutrition offers a Community concentration, focusing on public health nutrition. This 30-credit hour program, available online and on-campus, covers community nutrition, research methods, and biostatistics. A 3.0 GPA and prerequisites are required, but the GRE is waived.
- 30 credit-hour program
- Online and on-campus options
- Community concentration available
- No GRE required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Research methods included
- Biostatistics course
- Electives customizable
- For registered dietitians
Samford University
Birmingham, AL - Private 4-year - samford.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Samford University's Nutrition and Dietetics program is a campus-based offering in Birmingham, AL, designed to mold students into competent, entry-level dietitians and nutritionists. With a legacy spanning over 80 years, the program emphasizes human health, food, and nutrition, preparing students to address health and well-being challenges. The curriculum is a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, aimed at individuals passionate about making a public health impact through nutrition. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Over 80 years of experience.
- Prepares entry-level dietitians/nutritionists.
- Campus-based in Birmingham, AL.
- Focuses on human health and nutrition.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Nutrition at Samford University provides advanced training in nutrition science, health promotion, and clinical practice, ideal for professionals seeking career advancement in health care, education, or research. This 33-34 credit program, which can be completed in one year, offers a part-time option for flexibility. It focuses on leadership and evidence-based practice, with a curriculum that includes clinical nutrition, metabolism, and community nutrition. Requires GRE/MCAT/DAT, waived for 2024.
- 33-34 credit program
- Completed in one year
- Part-time option available
- Online study format
- Christian learning community
- Focus on leadership skills
- Evidence-based practice research
- Inter-professional course setting
- Capstone research project
- Prepares for RDN exam
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics - Online Learning - Visit Website
Samford University offers an online Master of Science in Nutrition with a Dietetics Concentration, accredited by ACEND, preparing students for the RDN exam. This two-year, flexible online program includes supervised experiential learning across the nation, within a Christian learning community. It requires a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and specific prerequisites, with a total cost of approximately $50,194. No GRE required.
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Flexible online courses.
- Supervised learning nationwide.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- Christian learning community.
- Personalized mentorship.
- Elective courses available.
- Capstone project customization.
- No GRE required.
- Bachelor's degree required.
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition provides a strong foundation in science-based nutrition principles. The curriculum prepares students for advanced study in healthcare fields like medicine and dentistry. Coursework covers metabolic processes, nutrient interactions, and disease prevention. Research skills and professional development are emphasized. Requires ACT/SAT
- Science-focused nutrition curriculum
- Prepares for professional schools
- Research opportunities available
- Comprehensive metabolic understanding
- Strong health science foundation
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science Option - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nutrition Science Option within Auburn University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition emphasizes biochemistry and metabolism. Designed for students pursuing health professional schools or graduate programs, it includes a pre-health advisor and early entry partnerships. A three-year option is available. Requires ACT/SAT
- Integrative curriculum in basic sciences.
- Focus on nutrient biochemistry and metabolism.
- Prepares for health-related professional schools.
- Dedicated pre-health advisor available.
- Partnerships for early entry into programs.
- Three-year undergraduate option.
- Junior year application start.
- Emphasizes practical nutrition application.
- Aims to enhance human well-being.
- Quality of life focus.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics Option - Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University's Dietetics Option in the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition program prepares students to become Registered Dietitians. This ACEND-accredited program includes a two-year pre-professional phase and a two-year Professional Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD). Graduates are eligible to apply for supervised practice programs. Requires ACT/SAT
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Prepares for RD/RDN credential.
- Includes 2-year pre-professional component.
- 2-year Professional Didactic Program.
- Covers clinical and community nutrition.
- Focus on public health and wellness.
- Prepares for dietetic internships.
- Requires post-baccalaureate supervised practice.
- Mission to enhance human well-being.
- High pass rate on credentialing exam.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University's Master of Science in Nutrition offers specializations in nutrition science, clinical nutrition, sports nutrition, and community nutrition. Students can pursue thesis or non-thesis options. Advanced coursework explores nutritional genomics, epidemiology, and faculty research strengths in diabetes and obesity. The program prepares graduates for leadership roles in nutrition and health.
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Focus areas in nutrition science
- Expert faculty in genomics
- Research in diabetes and obesity
- Campus-based learning
- Advanced level coursework
- Specialization electives available
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Comprehensive nutrition curriculum
- Clinical nutrition focus option
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nutrition Science concentration within Auburn University's Master of Science in Nutrition program focuses on advanced research and practice. Students can choose a thesis or non-thesis track to explore areas like nutritional genomics, physiology, and epidemiology. The program offers specialized electives and faculty expertise in diabetes and obesity research.
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Focus on Nutrition Science
- Expertise in diabetes, obesity
- 30-33 credit hours
- 7000-8000 level courses
- Nutritional genomics focus
- Clinical nutrition electives
- Sports nutrition options
- Community nutrition courses
- Research opportunities available
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Clinical Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn's Clinical Nutrition concentration in the Master of Science in Nutrition program prepares students for advanced healthcare roles. Coursework blends theory and application, covering disease prevention, medical nutrition therapy, and counseling. Students can pursue thesis or non-thesis options. Faculty research strengths include diabetes and obesity.
- 30-33 credit hours
- Thesis or non-thesis options
- Focus on clinical nutrition
- Core and elective courses
- Expert faculty in nutrition
- Research in diabetes, obesity
- On-campus program
- Medical nutrition therapy focus
- Nutritional counseling included
- Bachelor's degree required
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Sports Nutrition concentration in Auburn's Master of Science in Nutrition program combines coursework and research to prepare students for careers in athletic performance. Students can choose a thesis or non-thesis track and explore topics like nutritional genomics and exercise physiology. The program emphasizes practical skills for enhancing athlete health.
- Campus-based program
- Thesis or non-thesis options
- Focus on sports nutrition
- Expertise in diabetes, obesity
- Nutritional genomics focus
- 30-33 credit hours
- 7000-8000 level courses
- Electives for specialization
- Faculty research opportunities
- Practical athletic performance skills
Oakwood University
Huntsville, AL - Private 4-year - www2.oakwood.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oakwood University's Bachelor of Science in Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited program designed to prepare students for a career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). With a Christ-centered approach, the curriculum covers clinical nutrition, food science, and community health, offering a holistic view of wellness. Students will engage in laboratory experiences and learn about vegetarian nutrition, alongside mastering nutritional assessment and medical nutrition therapy. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission and consists of 123 credit hours. Tuition is $15,020 for residents, with scholarship opportunities available. Requires ACT/SAT.
- ACEND-accredited dietetics program
- 123 total credit hours required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Christ-centered educational approach
- Prepares students for RDN certification
- Covers clinical and community nutrition
- Includes laboratory experience
- Vegetarian nutrition emphasis
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with Vegetarian Culinary
Concentration: Vegetarian Culinary - Campus Based - Visit Website
Oakwood University offers a unique Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with a Vegetarian Culinary concentration, combining nutrition science with hands-on vegetarian culinary arts training. The program includes courses in food science, life span nutrition, and vegetarian cuisine, with practical experience gained through labs and internships. Students will explore menu planning, baking, international cuisine, and wellness cuisine, all within an evidence-based practice framework. Admission requires meeting general education and specific course prerequisites. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Campus-based program
- Focus on vegetarian culinary arts
- Includes labs and internships
- Covers menu planning and baking
- International cuisine studies
- Wellness cuisine focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Professional behavior training
- Hands-on culinary experience
- Nutrition science foundation
Master's - Master of Public Health
Concentration: Nutrition and Wellness - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Public Health with a concentration in Nutrition and Wellness at Oakwood University is a 100% online program that can be completed in 22-24 months. Focusing on plant-based nutrition, it prepares graduates to meet dietetic registration standards and develop community health strategies. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based nutrition education and cultural competence, with a Christ-centered foundation. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA, with provisional admission and up to 9 transfer credits available. No GRE Required.
- 100% Online Program
- Complete in 22-24 Months
- Plant-Based Diet Focus
- Meets Dietetic Registration Standards
- Christ-Centered Curriculum
- Bachelor's Degree Required
- 3.0 GPA Minimum
- Provisional Admission Available
- Maximum 9 Transfer Credits
- Research and Practicum Components
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, AL - Public 4-Year - jsu.edu
Master's - Physical Education - Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
Jacksonville State University's Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Physical Education - Nutrition is tailored for those pursuing advanced roles in nutrition and wellness. This 30-credit online program prepares students for the ISSN Certified Sport Nutrition exam and offers a pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian, focusing on nutritional strategies for both healthy individuals and those with chronic diseases. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Nutrition, or a related field with a minimum 2.75 GPA. Applicants with GPAs below this may need to submit GRE or MAT scores. The curriculum emphasizes research, ethical considerations, and diversity in wellness and sports nutrition, incorporating clinical and exercise physiology courses alongside advanced nutritional therapy and assessment techniques. Requires GRE or MAT.
- 30 graduate semester hours.
- Online program available.
- Focus on nutrition and wellness.
- Prepares for ISSN exam.
- Requires bachelor's in related field.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA for admission.
- GRE or MAT scores may be required.
- Non-professional educator certification.
- Emphasizes research in wellness.
- Covers diversity and ethics.
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee, AL - Private 4-year - tuskegee.edu
Bachelor's - Nutritional Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Tuskegee University's Nutritional Science program stands out for its comprehensive approach to health, nutrition, and food sciences education. Offering a variety of B.S. degree options, students can tailor their studies to interests in Food Science, Public Health Nutrition, or Biology-integrated pathways. With a curriculum that emphasizes both research and practical skills, graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, government agencies, and health organizations. The program benefits from guidance by a Food & Nutritional Sciences Advisory Board and offers professional internship opportunities, ensuring students gain real-world experience. Additionally, the Integrative Biosciences PhD program provides a pathway for advanced study. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Multiple B.S. degree options
- Food & Nutritional Sciences Advisory Board
- Professional internship opportunities
- Research-focused curriculum
- Integrative Biosciences PhD program
2025 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in AL
Finding the right program for a Master's in Machine Learning in Alabama doesn't have to break the bank. The table highlights options that balance quality with affordability, offering a range of tuition prices to fit different budgets. Whether you're looking in Birmingham, Montgomery, or elsewhere in Alabama, these programs provide a cost-effective way to advance your education. With degrees from Associate to Master's level, students have the flexibility to choose a path that matches their career goals and financial situation. Affordable education is key to opening doors in the fast-growing field of machine learning, making these programs a smart choice for 2025.
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| The University of Alabama |
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Auburn University
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List of Alabama Nutrition Degree Programs - Associate, Bachelors, Masters
Alabama offers a variety of nutrition degree programs at different levels, including associate, bachelors, and masters. These programs are designed to prepare students for careers in nutrition and dietetics. Below is a table listing schools in Alabama that offer these programs. It includes the city and state location, program highlights, and links to each school's program page for more details.
Auburn, AL
Auburn University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- Science-focused nutrition curriculum
- Prepares for professional schools
- Research opportunities available
- Comprehensive metabolic understanding
- Strong health science foundation
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics Option - Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Prepares for RD/RDN credential.
- Includes 2-year pre-professional component.
- 2-year Professional Didactic Program.
- Covers clinical and community nutrition.
- Focus on public health and wellness.
- Prepares for dietetic internships.
- Requires post-baccalaureate supervised practice.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science Option - Campus Based - Website
- Integrative curriculum in basic sciences.
- Focus on nutrient biochemistry and metabolism.
- Prepares for health-related professional schools.
- Dedicated pre-health advisor available.
- Partnerships for early entry into programs.
- Three-year undergraduate option.
- Junior year application start.
- Emphasizes practical nutrition application.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Focus areas in nutrition science
- Expert faculty in genomics
- Research in diabetes and obesity
- Campus-based learning
- Advanced level coursework
- Specialization electives available
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Clinical Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- 30-33 credit hours
- Thesis or non-thesis options
- Focus on clinical nutrition
- Core and elective courses
- Expert faculty in nutrition
- Research in diabetes, obesity
- On-campus program
- Medical nutrition therapy focus
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science - Campus Based - Website
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Focus on Nutrition Science
- Expertise in diabetes, obesity
- 30-33 credit hours
- 7000-8000 level courses
- Nutritional genomics focus
- Clinical nutrition electives
- Sports nutrition options
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Thesis or non-thesis options
- Focus on sports nutrition
- Expertise in diabetes, obesity
- Nutritional genomics focus
- 30-33 credit hours
- 7000-8000 level courses
- Electives for specialization
Birmingham, AL
Samford University
- Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- Over 80 years of experience.
- Prepares entry-level dietitians/nutritionists.
- Campus-based in Birmingham, AL.
- Focuses on human health and nutrition.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- 33-34 credit program
- Completed in one year
- Part-time option available
- Online study format
- Christian learning community
- Focus on leadership skills
- Evidence-based practice research
- Inter-professional course setting
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics - Online Learning - Website
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Flexible online courses.
- Supervised learning nationwide.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- Christian learning community.
- Personalized mentorship.
- Elective courses available.
- Capstone project customization.
Huntsville, AL
Oakwood University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited dietetics program
- 123 total credit hours required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Christ-centered educational approach
- Prepares students for RDN certification
- Covers clinical and community nutrition
- Includes laboratory experience
- Vegetarian nutrition emphasis
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with Vegetarian Culinary
Concentration: Vegetarian Culinary - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Focus on vegetarian culinary arts
- Includes labs and internships
- Covers menu planning and baking
- International cuisine studies
- Wellness cuisine focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Professional behavior training
- Master's - Master of Public Health
Concentration: Nutrition and Wellness - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Complete in 22-24 Months
- Plant-Based Diet Focus
- Meets Dietetic Registration Standards
- Christ-Centered Curriculum
- Bachelor's Degree Required
- 3.0 GPA Minimum
- Provisional Admission Available
Jacksonville, AL
Jacksonville State University
- Master's - Physical Education - Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- 30 graduate semester hours.
- Online program available.
- Focus on nutrition and wellness.
- Prepares for ISSN exam.
- Requires bachelor's in related field.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA for admission.
- GRE or MAT scores may be required.
- Non-professional educator certification.
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama
- Bachelor's - Food and Nutrition + Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD)
Concentration: Didactic Program in Dietetics - Online Learning - Website
- ACEND-accredited program.
- 100% online format.
- 120 credit hours required.
- $385 tuition per hour.
- 2.0 GPA for admission.
- No ACT/SAT for some.
- Prepares for dietitian careers.
- Focus on nutrition science.
- Bachelor's - Food and Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Sciences - Campus Based - Website
- Focus on medical school prep.
- Strong science foundation.
- Hands-on research opportunities.
- Covers biochemistry, nutrition.
- Ideal for healthcare careers.
- No dietitian registration.
- Practical skills emphasized.
- Admission requires science aptitude.
- Bachelor's - Food and Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- 120 credit hours
- $385 per credit hour
- Online format
- No ACT/SAT required
- 2.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prepares for RDN exam
- Covers nutrition and health
- Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- 30 credit-hour program
- Online and on-campus options
- Generalist, Community, or Clinical tracks
- No GRE required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prerequisites for non-ACEND degrees
- Core research and nutrition courses
- Electives available
- Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Concentration: Clinical - Online Learning - Website
- 30 credit-hour program.
- Clinical Concentration available.
- Online and on-campus options.
- GPA requirement of 3.0.
- No GRE required.
- Prepares for doctoral study.
- Focus on research skills.
- Up-to-date nutrition knowledge.
- Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition
Concentration: Community - Online Learning - Website
- 30 credit-hour program
- Online and on-campus options
- Community concentration available
- No GRE required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Research methods included
- Biostatistics course
Tuskegee, AL
Tuskegee University
- Bachelor's - Nutritional Science
Campus Based - Website
- Multiple B.S. degree options
- Food & Nutritional Sciences Advisory Board
- Professional internship opportunities
- Research-focused curriculum
- Integrative Biosciences PhD program
A Look at Career Opportunities for Nutrition Degree Grads
Our analysis of the local job market reveals several key trends:
Advanced Education is Now Mandatory: UAB Medicine’s requirement for master’s degrees after January 2024 reflects the national shift toward higher educational standards, which correlates with better compensation.
Diverse Career Paths: The job market spans from $31,200 entry-level positions to $85,000 leadership roles, showing clear advancement opportunities across healthcare, government, education, and research sectors.
Interdisciplinary Skills Matter: Employers increasingly value professionals who can bridge nutrition science with healthcare administration, public policy, food science, and health education.
Technology Integration: Modern nutrition roles require proficiency with electronic health records, nutrient analysis software, and data management systems.
Here’s what employers across the state are seeking in nutrition professionals.
Clinical and Healthcare Settings
Advanced Clinical Leadership Roles
Compass Group/Morrison Healthcare seeks Clinical Nutrition Managers for positions in Montgomery and Tuscaloosa, offering $80,000-$85,000 annually. These leadership roles require registered dietitians to oversee daily operations, mentor staff, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams in acute care settings. Candidates need 2+ years acute care experience or 3+ years senior living experience, plus specialty certifications when applicable.
UAB Medicine in Birmingham offers Registered Dietitian positions for Nutrition Support at $50,050-$81,330 annually. These roles focus on assessing nutrition status, developing medical nutrition therapy interventions, and providing patient education. UAB requires a bachelor’s degree in medical dietetics for licenses obtained before 2024, but mandates a master’s degree for licenses after January 1, 2024—reflecting the industry’s shift toward advanced education.
Long-term Care and Rehabilitation
Mobile Nursing and Rehabilitation Center recruits Registered Dietitians for comprehensive patient care, including nutritional assessments, care plan development, and therapeutic diet management. These positions offer competitive pay with excellent benefits packages including 401(k), health insurance, and paid time off.
Government and Public Health
State-Level Nutrition Programs
The Alabama Department of Public Health employs Nutritionists across multiple programs at $43,351-$72,504 annually. These roles involve providing health assessments, nutrition education, and developing public health campaigns. The department requires a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, foods and nutrition, or community nutrition, plus eligibility for Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics registration and Alabama state licensure.
Educational Institution Programs
Alabama A&M University seeks Nutrition Education Program Coordinators at $53,325-$69,270 annually to lead urban nutrition education and physical activity programs. This grant-funded position requires a master’s degree in nutrition/dietetics, health education, or health science plus five years of program coordination experience. The role involves supervising nutrition educators, building community partnerships, and ensuring compliance with federal guidelines.
The Alabama State Department of Education offers Child Nutrition Culinary Specialist positions at $41,163-$90,844 annually, focusing on culinary training, recipe development, and menu implementation for school nutrition programs.
Research and Academic Settings
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) recruits Clinical Research Coordinators for the Nutrition for Precision Health Study at $43,890-$71,320 annually. While requiring only a high school diploma, these positions prefer candidates with bachelor’s degrees in health-related fields and offer pathways into nutrition research careers.
Private Practice and Clinical Support
Archetype in Homewood seeks Dietician/Nutritionist Assistants at $15-20 per hour for part-time patient counseling roles. These entry-level positions focus on patient communication, lifestyle counseling, and nutrition education support.
Key Skillsets Employers Demand
Clinical Expertise
- Medical nutrition therapy development and implementation
- Nutritional assessment and documentation in medical records
- Knowledge of therapeutic diets and supplement protocols
- Understanding of enteral and parenteral nutrition therapy
- Familiarity with electronic medical records and diet office systems
Leadership and Management
- Staff supervision, training, and mentorship capabilities
- Quality improvement and regulatory compliance knowledge
- Budget management and cost control experience
- Interdisciplinary team collaboration skills
- Program development and evaluation expertise
Communication and Education
- Patient and caregiver counseling abilities
- Community education and public speaking skills
- Report writing and presentation development
- Social media and marketing strategy knowledge
- Multilingual capabilities (increasingly valued)
Technology and Data Management
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
- Experience with nutrient analysis software (PEARS systems)
- Electronic health record navigation
- Data collection, analysis, and reporting skills
- Adaptation to emerging digital health technologies
Educational Requirements and Career Progression
Advanced Degree Mandate
The most significant trend is the master’s degree requirement for new Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) licensed after January 1, 2024. UAB Medicine explicitly states this requirement, reflecting national standards that increase professional credibility and earning potential.
Crossover Opportunities
Alabama employers value nutrition professionals who can bridge disciplines:
- Healthcare Administration: Clinical nutrition managers transition into hospital administration roles
- Public Policy: Public health nutritionists influence state and federal food assistance programs
- Food Science: Culinary specialists in school systems bridge nutrition science and food production
- Research: Clinical research coordinators provide pathways into academic and pharmaceutical research
- Health Education: Community nutrition roles overlap with health promotion and wellness programs
Certification and Licensing Requirements
All professional nutrition roles require:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics registration eligibility
- Alabama State Board of Examiners for Dietetic/Nutrition Practice licensure
- Specialty certifications (sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, oncology) increasingly preferred
- Continuing education for license maintenance
Salary Ranges by Sector
- Government/Public Health: $43,351-$72,504
- Healthcare Leadership: $80,000-$85,000
- Clinical Practice: $50,050-$81,330
- Education/Research: $53,325-$69,270
- Entry-Level Support: $15-20/hour ($31,200-$41,600 annually)
Alabama’s nutrition job market offers clear advancement pathways from entry-level support roles to executive leadership positions, with master’s degree holders commanding premium salaries and expanded opportunities across multiple sectors.