Connecticut offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring nutrition professionals, combining top-tier educational programs with a thriving job market that values specialized expertise. From the state’s renowned academic institutions to its innovative healthcare systems and emerging telehealth companies, Connecticut provides the perfect environment to launch and advance your nutrition career.
With competitive salaries ranging from $40-130 per hour and comprehensive benefits packages, the state rewards nutrition professionals who are equipped with the right education and credentials.
The programs featured below represent Connecticut’s best offerings in nutrition education, from community college pathways to advanced graduate degrees.
2025 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Connecticut
Looking for the best nutrition degree programs in Connecticut? 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 factors like accreditation, faculty expertise, and student outcomes. Want to know how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for details.
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT - Public 4-Year - uconn.edu
Bachelor's - Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Connecticut's Nutritional Sciences program offers three distinct tracks: Food and Health Sciences, Didactic Program in Dietetics, and Pre-Medical Profession. This comprehensive program integrates basic science with core nutrition principles, preparing students for careers in dietetics, food science, and pre-med. Located in Storrs, CT, students benefit from research opportunities alongside faculty. The curriculum is tailored to individual career goals, emphasizing the vital relationship between food and health. Requires ACT/SAT
- Three specialized tracks available.
- Campus-based program in Storrs.
- Research opportunities with faculty.
- Focus on food and health relationship.
- Prepares for dietetics and pre-med careers.
- Integrates basic science and nutrition.
- Undergraduate research experience offered.
- Tailored curriculum for career goals.
- Comprehensive nutritional sciences education.
- Admissions based on academic achievement.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Visit Website
UConn's Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences program requires 30 credits and culminates in either a thesis (Plan A) or a review paper (Plan B). The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary research collaborations and offers specializations such as Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition and Community/Public Health Nutrition. This program prepares graduates for careers in research, healthcare, and public health. No GRE Required
- 30 credits required.
- Thesis or review paper.
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities.
- Specializations available.
- Campus-based program.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Concentration: Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Connecticut's Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences, specializing in Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition, delves into the molecular aspects of nutrition. This program offers both thesis and non-thesis options, catering to varied career paths in research and healthcare. The campus-based program fosters collaboration and interdisciplinary research opportunities. A strong academic background is required for admission. Requires GRE
- Specialized in Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition.
- Offers thesis and non-thesis options.
- Campus-based learning environment.
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities.
- Prepares for careers in research and healthcare.
- Strong academic background required for admission.
- Collaborative learning environment.
- Rigorous coursework combined with research.
- Gateway to advancing nutritional science.
- Details on cost available online.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Concentration: Human Nutrition and Metabolism - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on the impact of nutrition on human health, UConn's Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences with a concentration in Human Nutrition and Metabolism involves 30 credits, a comprehensive exam, and thesis research. The program fosters interdisciplinary research across UConn and UConn Health. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with prerequisites in nutrition and related sciences. Financial aid is available. Requires GRE
- 30 credits required
- Thesis research included
- Comprehensive exam
- Interdisciplinary research focus
- On-campus program
- Human Nutrition concentration
- Advisory committee support
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Financial aid available
- Collaborative research opportunities
Master's - Master of Science in Personalized Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Personalized Nutrition at UConn blends nutrigenomics, clinical nutrition, and nutritional biochemistry. This 30-credit program, designed for busy professionals, prepares graduates for careers as certified nutrition specialists or registered dietitian nutritionists. The flexible, asynchronous format emphasizes precision nutrition and requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and biochemistry coursework. No GRE Required
- 30-credit online program
- Focus on nutrigenomics
- Prepares for CNS certification
- Asynchronous online format
- Requires baccalaureate degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- College-level biochemistry prerequisite
- Combines clinical and nutritional biochemistry
- Flexible for working professionals
- Focus on precision nutrition
University of Saint Joseph
West Hartford, CT - Private 4-year - usj.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition, B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Joseph's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition is an ACEND® accredited program designed to prepare students for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential. It offers a comprehensive curriculum covering medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and food science, alongside required science courses. Students must maintain a minimum 'C' grade in major and science courses to be eligible for a verification statement, crucial for dietetic internship applications. The program includes valuable field experiences in the final year and culminates in a comprehensive exam project, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their future careers in dietetics. Requires ACT/SAT.
- ACEND® accredited program
- Prepares for RDN credential
- Includes field experience
- Minimum 'C' grade required
- Covers medical nutrition therapy
- Focus on community nutrition
- Food science included
- Requires science courses
- Field experience in final year
- Comprehensive exam project
Bachelor's - Nutrition, B.S.
Concentration: Community Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Community Nutrition, the University of Saint Joseph's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition is ACEND® accredited, aiming to equip students for the RDN exam. The curriculum delves into nutrition counseling, food science, and medical nutrition therapy, complemented by hands-on field placements. A minimum 'C' grade in major and science courses is mandatory for the verification statement. This program stands out for its emphasis on community nutrition, preparing students for impactful roles in public health and dietetics. Requires ACT/SAT.
- ACEND® accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN exam eligibility.
- Includes field experience.
- Minimum 'C' grade required.
- Strong foundation in dietetics.
Bachelor's - Nutrition, B.S.
Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Dietetics concentration at the University of Saint Joseph offers an ACEND® accredited Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, targeting future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. It blends theoretical knowledge in medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and food science with practical field experience. Students must achieve at least a 'C' in major and science courses to secure a verification statement for dietetic internships. The program's comprehensive exam project ensures a thorough understanding of dietetics, making graduates ready for the challenges of the profession. Requires ACT/SAT.
- ACEND® accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN credential.
- Includes field experience.
- Minimum 'C' grade required.
- Covers medical nutrition therapy.
- Community nutrition focus.
- Food science included.
- Required science courses.
- Comprehensive exam project.
- Blends theory and practice.
University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CT - Private 4-year - bridgeport.edu
Bachelor's - Health Sciences
Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Bridgeport offers a BS in Health Sciences with a concentration in Nutrition, designed to equip students with a deep understanding of nutrition science and its application in promoting health and wellness. This campus-based program emphasizes evidence-based practices, covering topics from human metabolism to community health strategies. With a curriculum that includes Nutrition and Disease, Food Service Management, and Exercise Nutrition, students are prepared for diverse roles in the nutrition field. The 50-credit program integrates science, business, and health education, requiring general education prerequisites for admission. Ideal for those passionate about making a difference in public health through nutrition. Requires ACT/SAT.
- 50-credit Nutrition concentration.
- Covers human metabolism, nutrition science.
- Includes Food Service Management course.
- Exercise Nutrition course available.
- Prepares for community wellness roles.
- Blends science, business, health education.
- On-campus program in Bridgeport, CT.
- Admission requires general education prerequisites.
Master's - Human Nutrition, M.S.
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Bridgeport's online Master's in Human Nutrition is tailored for individuals aiming to become clinical nutritionists, offering a flexible path to the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) certification. This program stands out with its Virtual Clinic capstone, providing practical experience in dietary assessment and personalized nutrition planning. Designed for completion in as few as 24 months, it features expert-led courses and prepares graduates for advanced roles in functional medicine and private practice. The program does not lead to RD designation but is a stepping stone for further doctoral studies. No GRE Required.
- Online program flexibility
- Pathway to CNS certification
- 24-month completion time
- Virtual Clinic capstone
- Taught by expert faculty
- No RD designation
- Three semesters per year
- 15-week semester length
- Prepares for Ph.D. or DHSc.
- Comprehensive final exam
Connecticut State Community College
Hartford, CT - Public 2-Year - ctstate.edu
Associate - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Connecticut State Community College offers an Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, designed for those aiming to enter the healthcare sector as Nutrition and Dietetics Technicians, Registered (NDTR). This ACEND-accredited program combines classroom learning with 450 hours of supervised field experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the credentialing exam. With a focus on healthcare, food service management, and community nutrition, the program requires a 2.7 GPA for admission and offers a blend of hybrid and on-ground study options. Located at the Gateway campus, it's an ideal choice for students seeking a practical pathway into nutrition careers.
- Associate of Science degree
- 2+ years program length
- Hybrid and on-ground study
- 450 hours supervised experience
- ACEND accredited program
- Health careers focus
- Gateway campus location
- Credentialing exam preparation
List of Connecticut Nutrition Degree Programs - Associate, Bachelors, Masters
Looking for nutrition degree programs in Connecticut? You're in the right place. Below is a table listing schools offering associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in nutrition. Each entry includes the city and state, key program features, and a link to the school's program page. Find the program that fits your goals and start your journey in the nutrition field today.
Bridgeport, CT
University of Bridgeport
- Bachelor's - Health Sciences
Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- 50-credit Nutrition concentration.
- Covers human metabolism, nutrition science.
- Includes Food Service Management course.
- Exercise Nutrition course available.
- Prepares for community wellness roles.
- Blends science, business, health education.
- On-campus program in Bridgeport, CT.
- Admission requires general education prerequisites.
- Master's - Human Nutrition, M.S.
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility
- Pathway to CNS certification
- 24-month completion time
- Virtual Clinic capstone
- Taught by expert faculty
- No RD designation
- Three semesters per year
- 15-week semester length
Hartford, CT
Connecticut State Community College
- Associate - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- Associate of Science degree
- 2+ years program length
- Hybrid and on-ground study
- 450 hours supervised experience
- ACEND accredited program
- Health careers focus
- Gateway campus location
- Credentialing exam preparation
Storrs, CT
University of Connecticut
- Bachelor's - Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Website
- Three specialized tracks available.
- Campus-based program in Storrs.
- Research opportunities with faculty.
- Focus on food and health relationship.
- Prepares for dietetics and pre-med careers.
- Integrates basic science and nutrition.
- Undergraduate research experience offered.
- Tailored curriculum for career goals.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Website
- 30 credits required.
- Thesis or review paper.
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities.
- Specializations available.
- Campus-based program.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Concentration: Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- Specialized in Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition.
- Offers thesis and non-thesis options.
- Campus-based learning environment.
- Interdisciplinary research opportunities.
- Prepares for careers in research and healthcare.
- Strong academic background required for admission.
- Collaborative learning environment.
- Rigorous coursework combined with research.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Concentration: Human Nutrition and Metabolism - Campus Based - Website
- 30 credits required
- Thesis research included
- Comprehensive exam
- Interdisciplinary research focus
- On-campus program
- Human Nutrition concentration
- Advisory committee support
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- Master's - Master of Science in Personalized Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- 30-credit online program
- Focus on nutrigenomics
- Prepares for CNS certification
- Asynchronous online format
- Requires baccalaureate degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- College-level biochemistry prerequisite
- Combines clinical and nutritional biochemistry
West Hartford, CT
University of Saint Joseph
- Bachelor's - Nutrition, B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND® accredited program
- Prepares for RDN credential
- Includes field experience
- Minimum 'C' grade required
- Covers medical nutrition therapy
- Focus on community nutrition
- Food science included
- Requires science courses
- Bachelor's - Nutrition, B.S.
Concentration: Community Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND® accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN exam eligibility.
- Includes field experience.
- Minimum 'C' grade required.
- Strong foundation in dietetics.
- Bachelor's - Nutrition, B.S.
Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND® accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN credential.
- Includes field experience.
- Minimum 'C' grade required.
- Covers medical nutrition therapy.
- Community nutrition focus.
- Food science included.
- Required science courses.
Local Career Market Analysis
Connecticut’s position in the Northeast corridor provides access to diverse practice settings, from major academic medical centers to innovative telehealth companies. The state’s proximity to pharmaceutical and insurance companies creates unique opportunities in corporate wellness and nutrition consulting. With starting salaries ranging from $39-70 per hour and comprehensive benefits packages, Connecticut offers competitive compensation that reflects the state’s higher cost of living while providing excellent career growth potential for nutrition professionals.
High-Demand Specializations and Salary Ranges
Connecticut offers diverse opportunities for nutrition professionals, with specialized roles commanding premium salaries.
Remote positions offer the highest earning potential, with Fay paying up to $130 per hour for remote registered dietitians, while Foodsmart offers $56,000-$104,000 annually for full-time remote positions.
Clinical specializations also pay well, with positions at major health systems like Hartford HealthCare, Yale New Haven Health, and St. Vincent’s Medical Center offering competitive compensation.
Specialized care areas show strong demand and higher pay rates. Bariatric nutrition specialists at New You Bariatric Group earn $55-60 per hour, while behavioral health dietitians at Discovery Behavioral Health and Newport Healthcare work in growing mental health treatment facilities. Long-term care specialists at companies like NEXDINE and NutraCo earn $50-70,000 annually with comprehensive benefits.
Key Employers and Market Drivers
Major healthcare systems dominate the Connecticut market, including Hartford HealthCare (operating Hartford Hospital, Backus Hospital, and St. Vincent’s Medical Center), Yale New Haven Health, and Trinity Health. These organizations offer clinical dietitian positions with full benefits, continuing education support, and career advancement opportunities.
Emerging opportunities exist in telehealth and technology-driven nutrition companies like Foodsmart and Fay, which leverage digital platforms to provide nutrition counseling. These positions often offer flexible scheduling and the ability to work remotely while serving underserved communities and Medicaid populations.
Educational Requirements and Career Progression
All positions require a Bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition/Dietetics from an accredited program, completion of an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship, and registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Connecticut also requires state licensure as a Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist (CDN) within 90 days of hire.
Advanced degrees are increasingly preferred, with many employers favoring candidates with Master’s degrees in nutrition or related fields. Clinical experience, particularly in acute care, long-term care, or specialized areas like bariatrics or behavioral health, significantly enhances employment prospects and earning potential.
Examples of Roles Available
Clinical Nutrition Expertise
Hartford HealthCare operates multiple facilities across Connecticut, seeking clinical dietitians for Hartford Hospital, Backus Hospital (Norwich), and St. Vincent’s Medical Center (Bridgeport). These positions require comprehensive nutrition assessment, malnutrition screening, medical nutrition therapy, and collaboration with healthcare teams. Salaries range from $39.40-$42.72 per hour for full-time positions. A Bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition/Dietetics is required, with Master’s degrees preferred and one year of clinical experience desired.
Yale New Haven Health (New Haven) offers pediatric clinical dietitian positions requiring specialized knowledge in growth and development across the lifecycle. The role involves managing dietetic intern education and provides crossover opportunities into education and mentorship. Minimum one year of acute care experience is preferred, with Bachelor’s degree required and state CDN certification within six months of hire.
NutraCo provides clinical nutrition services to long-term care facilities in Southport and Danbury, offering $70,000+ annually with comprehensive benefits. Dietitians conduct clinical assessments, EMR documentation, and coordinate with facility teams. This role offers crossover into healthcare administration and quality assurance, requiring CDR registration and state licensure.
Specialized Medical Nutrition Therapy
NEXDINE (Simsbury) seeks nutrition care managers at $50 per hour for long-term care settings, requiring expertise in MDS 3.0 documentation, PDPM reimbursement models, and malnutrition identification. The position offers crossover into healthcare management and regulatory compliance. Bachelor’s degree with ACEND-accredited coursework required, plus minimum one year in long-term care or healthcare settings.
New You Bariatric Group (Stamford) offers $55-60 per hour for registered nutritionists specializing in bariatric care, requiring expertise in pre and post-operative nutrition counseling for gastric procedures. This role provides crossover opportunities into surgical support and medical weight management. Bachelor’s degree in nutrition required, with preference for five years clinical experience and three years with bariatric patients.
Discovery Behavioral Health (Greenwich) provides $62,000-71,000 annually for part-time registered dietitians specializing in eating disorder treatment. The role requires knowledge of medical consequences of eating disorders, re-feeding protocols, and family therapy facilitation. This position offers crossover into mental health treatment and family counseling, requiring Bachelor’s degree with completed dietetic internship.
Telehealth and Technology-Driven Nutrition
Fay offers remote positions throughout Connecticut paying up to $130 per hour, focusing on building private practice nutrition counseling through their platform. The company provides AI-powered EMR systems, insurance credentialing, and billing support. This role offers crossover into entrepreneurship and private practice development, requiring CDR registration and professional liability insurance.
Foodsmart provides $56,000-$104,000 annually for remote registered dietitians serving diverse populations including Medicaid members. The position involves addressing food insecurity through SNAP benefit support and digital grocery marketplace guidance. This role offers crossover into public health and social services, requiring active CT licensure and willingness to obtain additional state licenses.
Community and Preventive Nutrition
Hartford Hospital seeks community health dietitians for evening/weekend flexibility, focusing on nutrition education, health promotion, and community outreach programs. The role involves developing culturally appropriate materials and participating in health fairs. Bachelor’s degree required with Master’s preferred, offering crossover opportunities into public health education and program development.
Newport Healthcare (Seymour) provides full-time positions for registered dietitians in psychiatric healthcare settings, requiring expertise in disordered eating and body image challenges. The role involves treatment team collaboration and community education, offering crossover into mental health treatment and clinical psychology support.
Private Practice and Consulting
Nutrition Balance, LLC (West Hartford) offers $40-65 per hour for part-time positions in private practice settings, requiring expertise in chronic disease management and health coaching techniques. The role involves both in-person and virtual consultations, providing crossover opportunities into wellness coaching and preventive medicine. Bachelor’s degree in dietetics required with RDN credentialing and CT licensure.
Amy Plano, Registered Dietitian provides remote work opportunities at $42-55 per hour, focusing on private nutrition counseling with flexible scheduling. This position offers crossover into telehealth and independent practice development, requiring registered dietitian credentials and professional liability insurance.