Chicago offers a wide range of nutrition and dietetics programs, from associate degrees designed for university transfer to ACEND-accredited master’s programs that prepare students for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist credential.
Here is the everything you need to know.
How Much Will It Cost?
Tuition for Chicago-area nutrition and dietetics programs typically ranges from about $13,800 to $45,200 annually, depending on the school, program level, and residency status. Public universities like the University of Illinois Chicago offer the most affordable graduate options for in-state students, while private institutions such as Dominican University and Benedictine University have higher tuition rates.
How Long Does It Take?
Program lengths vary from 16 months for accelerated master’s programs with a dietetic internship to about two years for traditional master’s degrees. Bachelor’s programs generally require four years of full-time study, while associate degrees from community colleges like Harper College and Triton College take about two years before transferring to a bachelor’s program.
2025 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in the Chicago Area
Benedictine University
Lisle, IL - Private 4-year - ben.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Benedictine University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics offers a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Situated in Lisle, IL, this ACEND-accredited program demands a 3.0 GPA for admission and requires SAT or ACT scores. Students dive deep into nutritional biochemistry, medical nutrition therapy, and community health across 73-82 credit hours. The curriculum uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for diverse nutritional challenges. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice, the program provides an excellent foundation for professional development and potential graduate studies in nutrition and dietetics.
- 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.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Benedictine University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics delivers a sophisticated hybrid learning experience spanning 33 semester credits. The program offers two distinct tracks, accommodating diverse career objectives in nutrition science. While GRE scores are optional, applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. Students explore advanced nutrition strategies, focusing on health promotion, medical nutrition therapy, and community education. The flexible format enables working professionals to advance their expertise without disrupting current commitments. Graduates emerge prepared to navigate complex healthcare environments and contribute meaningfully to public health nutrition initiatives.
- 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
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: Dietetic Internship - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Benedictine University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics with Dietetic Internship concentration represents a rigorous 16-month hybrid program accredited by ACEND. Designed for aspiring Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, the program requires a DPD verification statement and maintains a 3.0 GPA threshold. Optional GRE submission allows flexibility in application. Students engage in comprehensive rotations across clinical, community, and food service settings, preparing comprehensively for the RDN exam. The program emphasizes public health, providing robust practical experiences through strategic coursework and hands-on training in diverse nutritional environments.
- 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.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: Online Track - Online Learning - Visit Website
Benedictine University's Online Track Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics caters to professionals seeking advanced nutritional education with maximum flexibility. Structured for completion in approximately two years, the program eliminates thesis requirements while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Admission requires a 3.00 GPA, with GRE scores optional. Coursework concentrates on contemporary nutrition challenges like obesity prevention and complementary therapies, delivering an interactive, evidence-based curriculum. Designed to accommodate both working professionals and full-time students, this online program provides comprehensive training in nutrition science without geographical constraints.
- 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
River Forest, IL - Private 4-year - dom.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dominican University's Nutrition and Dietetics program offers a comprehensive undergraduate experience preparing students for dynamic healthcare careers. Located in River Forest, this STEM-designated and ACEND-accredited program emphasizes scientific foundations and cultural competence in nutrition. Students develop robust skills across clinical, community, and research domains, positioning themselves for diverse professional opportunities. Entrance requirements include standard undergraduate admissions criteria, with potential ACT or SAT score submissions. The program uniquely bridges scientific knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for evolving nutrition and dietetic landscapes. Graduates can pursue paths in clinical nutrition, wellness programming, and advanced graduate studies.
- 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.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition with Coordinated Program in Dietetics
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dominican University's Master of Science in Nutrition with Coordinated Program represents an advanced hybrid learning pathway for aspiring registered dietitians. This meticulously structured program blends online coursework with comprehensive supervised practice rotations within a 50-mile campus radius. Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree and anticipate extensive fieldwork exceeding 1,000 hours. GRE requirements may apply for admission, though specific details should be confirmed directly with the university. The curriculum strategically prepares students for the Registration Examination, emphasizing public health, clinical nutrition, and community-focused interventions. ACEND accreditation ensures high-quality professional preparation and alignment with Illinois licensure standards.
- 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
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dominican University's Master of Science in Nutrition targets emerging nutrition professionals seeking leadership development in dietetics. This forward-thinking hybrid program anticipates the Commission on Dietetic Registration's advanced degree requirements, offering a sophisticated curriculum integrating evidence-based practices and community nutrition principles. Students engage in dynamic research opportunities and hands-on learning experiences designed to enhance professional competencies. Potential GRE submission might be required for admission, though specific requirements vary. The program distinguishes itself by cultivating leadership skills, supporting diverse population engagement, and preparing graduates for comprehensive roles in nutrition and dietetic sectors.
- 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
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - uic.edu
Master's - MS in Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago's MS in Nutrition provides comprehensive graduate training for nutrition professionals seeking advanced understanding of nutrient interactions and health outcomes. Students explore critical areas including disease prevention, food composition, and behavioral psychology of nutrition. The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in community healthcare, private practice, and scientific research. Designed to accommodate both early-career professionals and experienced Registered Dietitians, the curriculum emphasizes individual health goals and innovative approaches to nutritional intervention. Practical learning experiences ensure students develop robust skills for addressing complex nutritional challenges in contemporary healthcare environments.
- 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.
Master's - MS in Nutrition Coordinated Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
UIC's MS in Nutrition Coordinated Program offers an immersive two-and-a-half to three-year educational experience combining rigorous academic coursework with extensive supervised practice. This comprehensive program spans 36 graduate credits and integrates classroom learning with hands-on training across diverse healthcare settings. Students gain advanced nutrition science knowledge while completing practical rotations that prepare them for the Registered Dietitian examination. The curriculum emphasizes community nutrition, dietary counseling techniques, and evidence-based nutritional interventions. Graduates emerge well-equipped for professional roles in hospitals, clinics, research institutions, and public health organizations.
- 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.
Master's - MS in Nutrition Traditional Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Traditional Master of Science in Nutrition at University of Illinois Chicago provides a flexible, research-oriented pathway for aspiring nutrition professionals. Spanning 36 graduate-level credits, the program allows personalized exploration of advanced nutrition topics like microbiome studies, nutrigenomics, and food science. Ideal for researchers and those pursuing further graduate studies, students complete a comprehensive master's project under advisor guidance. The curriculum meets Commission on Dietetic Registration requirements and supports Registered Dietitians seeking advanced credentials. With no mandatory class sequences, students can tailor their academic journey to align with individual research interests and career objectives.
- 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.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - iit.edu
Master's - Nutrition Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Illinois Institute of Technology's Master of Science in Nutrition Science offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to modern nutritional challenges. Students engage in advanced coursework blending human physiological sciences, technological applications, and regulatory frameworks. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical research experiences, preparing graduates for diverse career pathways in food industries, biotech, public health, and preventative healthcare. With a strong focus on contemporary health and wellness issues, students develop critical skills to address nutritional challenges. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and TOEFL scores for international students, ensuring academic rigor and global preparedness in nutrition science.
- 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
William Rainey Harper College
Palatine, IL - Public 2-Year - harpercollege.edu
Associate - Nutrition Associate Degree
Campus Based - Visit Website
William Rainey Harper College's Nutrition Associate Degree provides a strategic academic pathway for students targeting future bachelor's degree completion. The comprehensive two-year program delivers intensive foundational coursework in nutrition science, human metabolism, and dietary principles. Students gain practical insights into nutritional assessment, health promotion, and dietary planning across diverse population groups. The curriculum strategically prepares learners for seamless university transfer, emphasizing rigorous academic preparation in nutrition and dietetics. Prospective students benefit from personalized academic advising, ensuring smooth progression toward advanced nutrition career opportunities. Program highlights include hands-on learning experiences, faculty mentorship, and a curriculum designed to meet emerging healthcare and wellness industry standards.
- 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
Triton College
River Grove, IL - Public 2-Year - triton.edu
Associate - Pre-Profession Nutrition/Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Triton College's Pre-Professional Nutrition/Dietetics Associate of Science degree offers a strategic pathway for aspiring nutrition professionals. Students explore comprehensive coursework in nutrition science, disease management through dietary interventions, and food industry dynamics. The program's alignment with the Illinois Articulation Initiative ensures smooth credit transfers to four-year institutions. With a robust curriculum focusing on nutrition fundamentals and career preparation, students gain practical insights into dietetics, health education, and wellness coordination. Triton's supportive academic environment provides personalized advising and a dedicated transfer center, making it an excellent starting point for students aiming to become registered dietitian nutritionists or pursue advanced nutrition studies. No specific entrance exam requirements are mentioned for this associate degree program.
- 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
2025 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in Chicago
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Benedictine University |
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| Dominican University |
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| University of Illinois Chicago |
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Choosing the Right School
Program Type and Pathway
Your first decision is the type of degree you need. Some programs are for transferring, while others prepare you directly for a career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
Undergraduate and Graduate Options: Benedictine University and Dominican University offer bachelor’s and master’s degree options, providing a direct path to the new RDN credentialing requirement.
Master’s Degrees for RDNs: Benedictine, Dominican, and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) all offer Master of Science programs specifically designed to meet the upcoming requirement for RDN exam eligibility.
Transfer Programs: If you’re starting your education at the associate level, William Rainey Harper College and Triton College have programs specifically designed to transfer seamlessly to a four-year university.
Specializations and Curriculum
Each program has a unique curriculum focus, from community health to advanced research.
Clinical and Public Health Focus: Both Benedictine and Dominican University emphasize practical skills in medical nutrition therapy and community health. Dominican specifically highlights its focus on cultural competence.
Research and Advanced Topics: For those interested in a research-oriented career, the University of Illinois Chicago’s Traditional MS program allows for a personalized path to explore advanced topics like the microbiome and nutrigenomics. Illinois Institute of Technology also offers a multidisciplinary program with a focus on clinical research.
Career-Focused Foundations: Harper College and Triton College provide a solid foundation in nutrition, preparing students for careers in fields like health education and wellness coordination.
Learning Format and Flexibility
The mode of delivery can be a crucial factor, especially for working professionals.
Campus-Based Programs: The University of Illinois Chicago’s Coordinated Program is a full-time, on-campus program that requires in-person attendance for its supervised rotations. IIT’s program is also primarily on-campus.
Hybrid and Online Options: Benedictine University and Dominican University offer master’s programs with a hybrid format, blending online coursework with in-person or local supervised practice rotations. Benedictine even has a fully online track with no thesis requirement, catering to students who need maximum flexibility.
Cost and Accreditation
Tuition and accreditation are major factors in a program’s value.
Accreditation: All the RDN-pathway programs mentioned—Benedictine University, Dominican University, and the University of Illinois Chicago—are ACEND-accredited, a critical designation for eligibility to take the RDN exam.
Tuition Costs: The public institutions like the University of Illinois Chicago offer a more affordable graduate-level option for in-state residents, while private universities like Benedictine and Dominican have higher estimated costs.
Admissions Requirements: Most programs require a strong academic record, with Benedictine and IIT specifying a 3.0 GPA. Be aware that most RDN programs also require a DPD verification statement for admission, so you’ll need to have completed specific prerequisite coursework.