Illinois Nutrition Programs & Online Degrees

Benedictine University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited campus program in Lisle, IL, preparing students for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. It requires a 3.0 GPA for admission and covers 73-82 credit hours in areas like nutritional biochemistry, medical nutrition therapy, and food service management. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and includes a pathway to graduate studies and dietetic internships. Entrance exams such as ACT or SAT are not mentioned as required, focusing instead on academic performance for admission.

• ACEND accredited program.
• Requires 73-82 credit hours.
• Campus-based in Lisle, IL.
• 3.0 GPA requirement.
• Includes medical nutrition therapy.
• Pathway to graduate studies.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Prepares for RDN credential.
• Combines theory and practical skills.
• Covers food service management.

The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Benedictine University is a hybrid program offering 33 semester credits with two tracks for career advancement. It requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and optional GRE submission, focusing on evidence-based nutrition, health promotion, and practical internships. This program prepares graduates for roles in clinical and community settings, with an accredited dietetic internship option available, but no mandatory entrance exams are specified beyond the optional GRE.

• Hybrid program delivery
• 33 semester credit hours
• Two distinct program tracks
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Evidence-based nutrition curriculum
• Prepares for dietetic professional roles
• Optional GRE submission
• Includes practical internship experiences
• Accredited dietetic internship option
• Focuses on health promotion strategies

Benedictine University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics with a Dietetic Internship concentration is a 16-month ACEND-accredited hybrid program. It requires a DPD verification statement, 3.0 GPA, and optional GRE scores, preparing students for the RDN exam through rotations in clinical, community, and food service settings. The program emphasizes public health and community nutrition, with financial aid options available, and does not mandate any entrance exams, as GRE submission is optional.

• ACEND accredited program.
• 16-month duration.
• Hybrid learning format.
• Prepares for RDN exam.
• Public health focus.
• Requires DPD verification.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Optional GRE scores.
• Financial aid available.
• Starts in August.

The Online Track of the Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Benedictine University is a fully online program designed for flexibility, allowing completion in about two years without a thesis. It requires a 3.00 GPA and optional GRE scores, focusing on evidence-based topics like obesity prevention and complementary therapies. Tailored for working professionals, it prepares graduates for diverse nutrition careers, with no entrance exams required beyond the optional GRE.

• Fully online format
• No thesis required
• Flexible scheduling
• Evidence-based curriculum
• Prepares for diverse careers
• Minimum 3.00 GPA required
• GRE scores optional
• Completion in about two years
• Interactive coursework
• Focus on obesity prevention

Dominican University's Nutrition and Dietetics program in River Forest, IL, is a STEM-designated and ACEND-accredited campus-based program. It provides a strong science foundation, focusing on cultural competence to prepare students for careers as registered dietitians in healthcare, food service, and research. Admissions require a bachelor's degree, with a master's needed for RDN credentialing from 2024; no entrance exam is specified for bachelor's level, but it's not explicitly waived.

• STEM-designated program.
• ACEND-accredited.
• Focus on cultural competence.
• Prepares for RDN credential.
• Diverse career opportunities.
• Strong science foundation.
• Options for graduate studies.
• Campus-based program.

Dominican University's Master of Science in Nutrition with Coordinated Program in Dietetics is a hybrid program combining online coursework with supervised practice rotations near River Forest. It focuses on public health or clinical nutrition, includes over 1,000 hours of field experience, and is ACEND-accredited for RD exam eligibility. A bachelor's degree in a related field is required, but no entrance exam is mentioned or explicitly waived for this master's level program.

• Hybrid program format
• 1,000+ supervised practice hours
• Prepares for RD exam
• ACEND accredited
• Bachelor's degree required
• Online coursework available
• Local supervised practice rotations
• Focus on public health/clinical nutrition
• Illinois licensure preparation
• Transcript evaluation for prerequisites

Dominican University's Master of Science in Nutrition is a hybrid program emphasizing community nutrition, evidence-based practices, and leadership skills. It aligns with CDR requirements for a master's degree for RD credentialing, offering hands-on research and engagement with diverse populations. No entrance exam is specified or explicitly waived for this master's level program, and a bachelor's degree is required for admission.

• Hybrid program format
• Focus on community nutrition
• Hands-on research opportunities
• Prepares for RD exam
• Leadership skills development
• Evidence-based practices
• Diverse population engagement
• Aligns with CDR requirements

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Health at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on science, requiring 126 credit hours including 40 upper-division courses. It covers essential topics like Principles of Nutrition, Nutritional Aspects of Disease, and Biochemical Nutrition, preparing students for advanced degrees in health sciences. Admission necessitates meeting university requirements, with a focus on science and communication skills, and may require ACT or SAT scores as part of the general entrance criteria.

• 126 credit hours required.
• 40 upper-division coursework hours.
• Strong science background.
• Focus on human nutrition.
• Prepares for advanced degrees.
• Includes Principles of Nutrition.
• Covers Nutritional Aspects of Disease.
• Biochemical Nutrition courses included.
• General education requirements apply.
• Science and communication skills focus.

The Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is an interdisciplinary program with over 60 faculty members, offering flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks requiring at least 32 credit hours. It prepares graduates for careers in academia, industry, or policy through research opportunities and professional development. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, and TOEFL for non-native English speakers, with financial aid available and a priority deadline of December 15.

• Interdisciplinary nutrition program
• Over 60 faculty members
• Flexible study programs
• Thesis and non-thesis options
• Minimum 32 credit hours
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• GRE required for admission
• TOEFL required for non-native speakers
• Financial aid available
• Priority deadline December 15

Eastern Illinois University's BS Nutrition program provides a comprehensive curriculum accredited by ACEND, preparing students for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). It includes a clear pathway to the MS program, with three graduate options for flexibility, and emphasizes clinical experience in the graduate phase. Given the national RDN shortage, graduates enjoy strong job prospects. This bachelor's program may require an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission.

• Prepares for RDN credential.
• Three graduate program pathways.
• ACEND accredited.
• Clinical experience included.
• Strong job prospects.

Eastern Illinois University's MS Nutrition & Dietetics: Coordinated Program is a campus-based offering with three admission pathways, including a 3+2 option for undergraduates. It provides hands-on clinical placements, covers medical nutrition therapy and public health nutrition, and allows for specialization through electives. Accredited by ACEND, it focuses on leadership development and competency. This master's program may require an entrance exam such as the GRE for admission.

• Campus-based program
• Three admission pathways
• Clinical placements available
• ACEND accredited
• Credit for prior learning
• Focus on leadership
• Medical nutrition therapy
• Public health nutrition
• Electives for specialization
• Hands-on experience

Eastern Illinois University's online MS in Nutrition & Dietetics with a concentration in Nutrition Education is designed for current RDNs, offering flexibility with asynchronous courses and completion in as few as two semesters. It grants 9 credits for prior learning, includes courses in public health nutrition and behavior, and provides electives for specialization. Corporate scholarships may be available. This master's program may require an entrance exam such as the GRE for admission.

• Online program delivery
• For current RDNs
• 9 credits prior learning
• Flexible completion pace
• Includes leadership development
• Public health nutrition focus
• Electives in multiple fields
• Corporate scholarships available
• Asynchronous courses
• 2 semesters full-time option

The Master of Science in Nutrition Science at Illinois Institute of Technology is a multidisciplinary program integrating human physiology, technology, and regulatory science with hands-on clinical research. It prepares graduates for careers in food, biotech, public health, and preventative healthcare or further professional studies. The program requires a 3.0 GPA and TOEFL scores for admission but does not mandate a GRE or other entrance exams, focusing on addressing modern health challenges and offering F-1 Visa compliance.

• Master's degree program
• On-campus learning
• F-1 Visa compliant
• Multidisciplinary curriculum
• Clinical research experience
• Prepares for diverse careers
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• TOEFL scores needed
• Focus on health and wellness
• Addresses contemporary issues

The University of Illinois Chicago's MS in Nutrition program is designed for aspiring leaders, offering advanced studies on nutrients and human health. It prepares students for careers in community healthcare, private practice, or research, with a focus on preventing nutrition-related diseases, food composition, energy needs, and behavior change psychology. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GRE, but this should be confirmed with the university for specific requirements.

• Campus-based program.
• Prepares for diverse practice settings.
• Focus on nutrition-related diseases.
• Advanced nutrient-health relationship studies.
• Ideal for career starters and RDs.
• Emphasizes behavior change psychology.
• Strong foundation for PhD pursuit.
• Expertise in food composition.
• Understanding of energy needs.
• Tailored to individual health goals.

UIC's MS in Nutrition Coordinated Program is a full-time, on-campus offering that integrates classroom learning with supervised practice over 2.5-3 years. It requires 36 credits and prepares students for the RD exam, with rotations in diverse settings for real-world experience in nutrition science and dietary counseling. For this master's program, an entrance exam like the GRE might be required; check with the institution for details.

• Full-time, in-person program.
• 36 credits required.
• Supervised practice included.
• Prepares for RD exam.
• Diverse rotation sites.
• Advanced nutrition science courses.
• Focus on community nutrition.
• Hands-on dietary counseling.
• Accredited by ACEND.
• Eligible for state licensure.

The Traditional MS in Nutrition at UIC allows for a personalized path with 36 graduate credits, including a master's project, and covers advanced topics like microbiome and nutrigenomics. It supports Registered Dietitians meeting new degree requirements and is ideal for research or further studies. As a master's program, an entrance exam such as the GRE could be necessary; verify with the university for specifics.

• Personalized coursework path.
• 36 graduate-level credits required.
• Includes a master's project.
• For Registered Dietitians and researchers.
• Advanced nutrition topics covered.
• No required classes, advisor-guided.
• 500-level HN rubric classes needed.
• Project can span multiple semesters.
• No committee review for project.
• Supports PhD, MD, or health degrees pursuit.

Northern Illinois University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Wellness offers a comprehensive education with two emphases: a didactic track for aspiring registered dietitians and a nutrition, health, and wellness pathway. Students engage in hands-on learning, including experiences at a campus restaurant, and participate in the Student Dietetic Association. This program focuses on practical skills to address health challenges and support diverse populations, with affordable tuition options. As a bachelor's degree, admission may require ACT or SAT scores, though specific requirements are not detailed in the provided data.

• Bachelor of Science degree
• Two program emphases available
• Prepares for registered dietitian track
• Student Dietetic Association involvement
• Hands-on learning opportunities
• Campus restaurant experience
• Career support resources
• Affordable tuition options

Northern Illinois University's Didactic Program in Dietetics concentration prepares students for careers as registered dietitians through a campus-based curriculum emphasizing nutrition science and psychology. It includes hands-on experiences, such as working at Ellington's student-run restaurant, and focuses on wellness education and food safety. Admission is based on high school GPA, with no mention of entrance exams, suggesting a test-optional or GPA-focused process for this bachelor's level program.

• Campus-based program
• Focus on dietetics
• Hands-on restaurant experience
• Prepares for registered dietitian
• High school GPA admission
• Practical learning focus
• Community involvement opportunities

Northern Illinois University's Nutrition, Health and Wellness concentration within the Bachelor of Science program guides students in promoting healthier eating habits for individuals and communities, combining science and psychology. It offers hands-on learning, involvement in the Student Dietetic Association, and prepares for registered dietitian internships. Admission requires a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and explicitly states test-free admissions, meaning no ACT or SAT scores are needed, with affordable tuition and merit scholarships available.

• Bachelor of Science degree
• Nutrition, health and wellness concentration
• Campus-based program
• Prepares for registered dietitian internship
• Hands-on learning opportunities
• Student Dietetic Association
• Affordable tuition
• Merit scholarships available
• High school GPA 3.0 for admission
• Test-free admissions

Bradley University's Nutrition and Dietetics bachelor's program in Peoria, IL, is ACEND-accredited and prepares students for the RD exam. It emphasizes clinical nutrition, wellness, and hands-on experience through internships and community projects. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA for transfer students, but no ACT or SAT is mentioned as required. The campus-based curriculum includes research opportunities and focuses on professional development for careers in healthcare settings.

• Accredited by ACEND.
• Prepares for RD exam.
• Hands-on internships available.
• 3.0 GPA required for transfers.
• Campus-based learning.
• Focus on clinical nutrition.
• Community project opportunities.
• Professional development focus.
• Comprehensive curriculum.
• Research opportunities with faculty.

Bradley University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is a 36-credit, ACEND-accredited program that includes 1,045 hours of supervised experiential learning starting in the first semester. It prepares graduates for the dietitian examination, with courses in medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and food service management. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, and specific prerequisites, but no entrance exam is mentioned as required. Small class sizes, personalized experiences, and graduate assistantships enhance learning.

• 36 credit-hour program
• ACEND-accredited
• 1,045 supervised learning hours
• Small class sizes
• Personalized experiences
• Study abroad opportunities
• Graduate assistantships available
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Bachelor's degree prerequisite
• Supervised learning starts first semester

Olivet Nazarene University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, starting fall 2022, is a campus-based program designed to meet ACEND's new standards for RDN credentialing. It requires a master's degree, with 45 graduate hours and 1000 supervised experiential learning hours integrated into the curriculum. Focused on clinical, community, foodservice, management, and sustainability, it offers an affordable and seamless pathway from undergraduate studies. This program does not require an entrance exam, emphasizing practical experience to prepare students for diverse professional roles in nutrition.

• 45 graduate hours
• 1000 supervised experiential learning hours
• Campus-based program
• Focus on clinical, community, foodservice, management, sustainability
• Affordable tuition
• Seamless undergraduate to graduate pathway
• Prepares for RDN credential
• ACEND approved candidacy
• Starts fall 2022
• Integrated supervised experiential learning

Illinois State University's Food, Nutrition and Dietetics program, accredited by ACEND, provides a robust curriculum for aspiring registered dietitian nutritionists. It includes sequences in Dietetics and Food and Beverage Management, with accelerated graduate study options. Admission requires a minimum GPA, and the program emphasizes practical skills in food science, nutrition, and management. As a bachelor's level program, it may require an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission.

• Accredited by ACEND.
• Offers Dietetics and Food Management sequences.
• Accelerated graduate study options.
• Minimum GPA for admission.
• Focus on practical skills.

Western Illinois University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is a campus-based program that prepares students for careers as registered dietitians, focusing on practical skills and theoretical knowledge in nutrition science, foodservice management, and public health nutrition. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA, and the 120-semester-hour curriculum includes general education and core courses. Graduates are equipped for the competitive dietetic internship process. An ACT or SAT entrance exam is required for bachelor's level admission.

• 120 semester hours required.
• Minimum 2.75 GPA for admission.
• Campus-based program.
• Prepares for dietetic internships.
• Includes foodservice management.
• Public health nutrition focus.
• Competitive internship process.
• Supports becoming a registered dietitian.
• Blends theory and practical skills.
• Requires maintaining 2.75 GPA.

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's Human Nutrition and Dietetics program is a campus-based offering that equips students for careers as registered dietitian nutritionists, emphasizing an evidence-based curriculum and critical thinking to meet CDR exam requirements. With a focus on integrating nutrition sciences, it supports timely completion and has strong alumni success in health fields. Admissions follow SIU standards, and as a bachelor's-level program, it requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam. The program is military-friendly and benefits from an on-campus hospital.

• Campus-based program
• Prepares for CDR exam
• Evidence-based curriculum
• Focus on critical thinking
• Supports timely completion
• Pathway to health careers
• Integration of nutrition sciences
• Alumni success in fields
• Admissions aligns with SIU
• Mission fosters professionals

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's Master of Science in Human Sciences with a Nutrition and Dietetics concentration includes a 12-month, 1200-hour ACEND-accredited dietetic internship, preparing students for the RDN exam with an 85% first-attempt pass rate. It covers health promotion, disease prevention, and clinical nutrition, with fall-only admissions and graduate assistantships available. As a master's-level program, it requires an entrance exam such as the GRE, unless waived based on specific criteria not detailed here.

• ACEND-accredited program
• 12-month dietetic internship
• 1200 hours supervised practice
• Fall semester admission only
• 85% RDN exam pass rate
• Graduate assistantships available
• Minimum master's degree required

William Rainey Harper College's Nutrition Associate Degree Program builds a strong foundation in nutrition for students planning to transfer to a bachelor's program in dietetics or related fields. It covers essential topics like health promotion and nutrition science, preparing graduates for roles in hospitals, schools, and public health. As an associate-level program, it does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on Harper's general requirements. Key features include transferability support, a campus-based format, and opportunities through the Scholars Program, ensuring a smooth transition to further education and diverse career paths.

• Associate in Science degree
• Prepares for transfer
• Focus on nutrition and dietetics
• Campus-based program
• Career opportunities in diverse settings
• Scholars Program available
• Contact advisor for course planning
• Multicultural Scholars Program option
• Faculty support available
• Transfer information provided

Illinois Central College offers a two-year Associate in Arts in Nutrition and Dietetics, designed as a transfer program for students aiming to become nutrition experts. With a small class size of 19 students and instruction from Registered Dietitians, it emphasizes personalized learning and practical experience through clinical scenarios. The curriculum includes 60 credit hours, costing approximately $9,600, and prepares graduates for careers in dietetics, nutrition education, health coaching, and personal training, while facilitating transfer to institutions like Bradley University, Illinois State University, and the University of Illinois. As an associate-level program, entrance exams such as ACT or SAT may be required for admission.

• 24-month transfer program
• 60 total credit hours
• Small 19-student class size
• Taught by Registered Dietitians
• Prepares for four-year transfer
• Estimated cost $9,600
• Career paths in nutrition
• Experience with clinical scenarios

Triton College's Pre-Profession Nutrition/Dietetics program offers an Associate of Science degree, ideal for students aiming to become registered dietitian nutritionists. It covers nutrition basics, disease management through diet, and food industry careers, with a focus on seamless transfer to Illinois universities via the Illinois Articulation Initiative. Students benefit from personalized advising and a supportive transfer center. This campus-based program does not require an ACT or SAT for entry, as it is an associate-level program, and prepares graduates for further education or roles in health education and wellness coordination.

• Associate of Science degree
• Seamless transfer to Illinois universities
• Personalized academic advising
• Illinois Articulation Initiative participant
• Career opportunities in dietetics
• Focus on nutrition and disease management
• Supportive transfer center
• Prepares for registered dietitian nutritionist
• Covers food industry careers
• General education courses transfer easily