Massachusetts offers some of the nation’s most comprehensive nutrition degree programs, providing students with exceptional academic and professional opportunities. These programs, which typically take four years for a bachelor’s and one to two years for a master’s, are offered at both private and public institutions, with average costs varying significantly.
The annual estimated undergraduate tuition ranges from $4,300 to over $62,000, with graduate costs from $28,400 to nearly $60,000. Whether seeking hands-on clinical training, innovative online learning, or a strong research foundation, students can find a program that balances academic excellence with their financial and career goals. Take a look at our analysis below for details.
2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Massachusetts
Simmons University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu
Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Simmons University's BS in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited program in Boston, preparing students for RDN careers with a rigorous curriculum in food science, community nutrition, and medical nutrition therapy. Hands-on learning in local hospitals enhances practical skills, and the program offers a pathway to a master's degree and dietetic internship. Admission requires standard undergraduate materials, including SAT or ACT scores for bachelor's level entry, making it ideal for those dedicated to health and science.
- ACEND-accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN credential.
- Located in Boston.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Pathway to master's degree.
- Rigorous science curriculum.
- Specialized nutrition studies.
- Community nutrition focus.
- Medical nutrition therapy included.
- Admission requires undergraduate materials.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion
Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion provides online and on-campus options, focusing on nutritional science, health promotion, and social factors in diet. With tracks in Applied Nutrition Science and Entrepreneurship, it requires prerequisites in chemistry and biology. No entrance exam is specified, and the program prepares graduates for careers in public health and private practice, offering flexibility for working professionals.
- Online and on-campus options.
- Tracks in Applied Nutrition, Entrepreneurship.
- 30 credit program.
- B or better required in courses.
- Prerequisites in chemistry, biology.
- Prepares for careers in public health.
- Faculty are experts in their fields.
- Customizable study plans.
- Evening classes for on-campus students.
- Fully online format available.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion
Concentration: Applied Nutrition Science - Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons University's MS in Nutrition and Health Promotion with an Applied Nutrition Science concentration emphasizes research methods and health promotion strategies in an online or on-campus format. It requires a B or better in courses and prerequisites in science, preparing students for leadership roles in nutrition science. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it suitable for those with backgrounds in nutrition aiming for careers in research or community health.
- 30 credit program.
- Online or on-campus options.
- Applied Nutrition Science concentration.
- B or better required in courses.
- Prerequisites in science and nutrition.
- Focus on research and health promotion.
- Prepares for diverse nutrition careers.
- Customizable with elective courses.
- Evening classes for on-campus students.
- Fully online format available.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion
Concentration: Entrepreneurship - Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons University's MS in Nutrition and Health Promotion with an Entrepreneurship concentration blends nutrition science with business skills in a fully online program. It includes courses from the School of Management and culminates in a business plan, ideal for innovators in for-profit or non-profit sectors. Prerequisites in chemistry and biology are required, with no entrance exam specified, offering flexible study for working professionals.
- Online program flexibility
- Entrepreneurship concentration available
- Combines nutrition and business skills
- Culminates with a business plan
- Ideal for working professionals
- Prerequisites in science and nutrition
- Courses from Simmons School of Management
- Prepares for various sectors
- Flexible part-time study option
- 30 credit program
Boston University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - bu.edu
Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science Track - Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's BS in Nutrition Science Track provides a robust academic pathway for students targeting advanced medical and scientific careers. This comprehensive 128-credit program equips learners with advanced biological and chemical foundations, strategically preparing them for medical, dental, and veterinary school trajectories. Students develop critical problem-solving skills through intensive coursework in organic chemistry, systems physiology, and nutrition research. The curriculum emphasizes scientific rigor, offering flexible learning options for diverse student backgrounds. With a minimum 2.0 GPA requirement, the program cultivates strong analytical skills essential for biomedical and public health professional environments.
- Prepares for medical school
- Strong science foundation
- Enhances critical thinking
- Includes organic chemistry
- Offers nutrition research
- 128 credit program
- Minimum GPA 2.0
- Career in public health
- Flexible for various stages
- Campus-based program
Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics Track - Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Dietetics Track BS in Nutrition represents a premier pathway for aspiring Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. Fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), the program prepares students comprehensively for professional certification. The curriculum integrates biological, chemical, and nutrition sciences with practical skills essential for clinical nutrition, public health, and research environments. Students must maintain a C+ average in gateway courses, ensuring academic excellence. Graduates emerge well-positioned to successfully complete the CDR national registration exam and obtain state licensure in nutrition and dietetic practice.
- Dietetics Track focus.
- Meets ACEND requirements.
- Covers nutrition sciences.
- Gateway courses required.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- Includes BU Hub education.
- Clinical nutrition emphasis.
- Public health preparation.
- Research skills development.
- State licensure ready.
Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition & Health Track - Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Nutrition & Health Track offers a dynamic BS program designed for students passionate about holistic health approaches. This comprehensive curriculum explores critical scientific disciplines including chemistry, physiology, and microbiology while developing specialized knowledge in life cycle nutrition, community health, and chronic disease prevention. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary framework that cultivates advanced problem-solving skills and critical thinking. The flexible 128-credit program allows learners to develop deep expertise through carefully structured coursework, preparing graduates for diverse careers in public health, communications, and nutrition-related professional environments.
- 128 total credits required
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Multiple concentration options
- Science-based nutrition curriculum
- Minimum 16 credits concentration area
- Interdisciplinary health approach
- Critical thinking emphasis
- Advanced problem-solving skills
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Master of Science in Nutrition offers a sophisticated graduate experience targeting professionals seeking advanced research and career development opportunities. The program enables students to customize their academic journey through faculty-supported exploration in education, research, and consulting domains. Featuring a mandatory research project and optional practicum, the curriculum develops sophisticated communication and analytical skills. As a STEM-eligible program, international students can benefit from potential OPT extensions. Merit scholarships and graduate assistantships enhance accessibility, making this an attractive option for aspiring nutrition professionals seeking comprehensive graduate training.
- STEM-eligible program.
- Customizable study focus.
- Research project required.
- Optional practicum experience.
- Merit scholarships available.
- Graduate assistantships offered.
- No dietetic internship included.
- Faculty support in various fields.
- Focus on research and communication.
- Ideal for medical school prep.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition+Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Master of Science in Nutrition+Dietetic Internship represents an elite 16-month program for aspiring clinical nutrition professionals. ACEND-accredited, this comprehensive program uniquely combines rigorous graduate coursework with a full-time Dietetic Internship, strategically preparing students for the national RDN examination. Featuring a 100% exam pass rate, students train in a state-of-the-art clinical simulation center, gaining extensive practical experience across diverse specialty areas. The program offers guaranteed merit scholarships and graduate assistantships, making it an accessible and attractive option for dedicated students targeting advanced clinical nutrition careers.
- 16-month program duration
- ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship
- Clinical concentration focus
- 100% RDN exam pass rate
- State-of-the-art clinical simulation center
- Guaranteed $10,000 merit scholarship
- Graduate Assistantships available
- STEM-eligible degree program
- Full-time 29-week DI experience
- Training in various specialty areas
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition & Metabolism
Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Master of Science in Nutrition & Metabolism offers an interdisciplinary graduate experience blending nutrition, biology, and health sciences. Designed for ambitious professionals, the program provides flexible full-time or part-time study options across a 32-credit curriculum. Students engage in original research under personalized mentorship, exploring complex topics like obesity and diabetes. Located in Boston's vibrant academic environment, the program provides access to world-class resources and opportunities for research publication. With small class sizes and strong career mentoring, graduates are prepared for diverse roles in research, academia, and healthcare settings.
- 1-2 year program duration
- Full-time or part-time options
- Campus-based learning
- 32 credit curriculum
- Original research required
- Small class sizes
- Personalized mentoring
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Focus on obesity, diabetes
- Prepares for medical school
Tufts University
Medford, MA - Private 4-year - tufts.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
Tufts University's Accelerated Master of Science in Nutrition program offers a seamless transition for undergraduates, allowing up to four courses to count towards the MS degree, reducing time and cost. Available on-campus or online with full-time or part-time options, it emphasizes interdisciplinary research, real-world impact, and scholarships. Admissions waive application and tuition deposit fees for Tufts undergraduates, and the program includes experiential learning and career services. No entrance exam is required, as it is designed for admitted undergraduates.
- Accelerated MS in Nutrition.
- On Campus or Online.
- Full Time or Part Time.
- Count undergraduate courses.
- Scholarships available.
- Application fee waived.
- Tuition deposit waived.
- Interdisciplinary research focus.
- Real-world impact opportunities.
- Dedicated career services.
Master's - Online Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science and Policy - Online Learning - Visit Website
Tufts University's Online Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Nutrition Science and Policy provides a flexible, world-class education for health professionals and career-changers, requiring only one college-level science course for admission. The program offers full-time or part-time study, generous scholarships, and focuses on global impact in food and nutrition. No entrance exam is specified, making it accessible for diverse learners.
- Online program flexibility
- Nutrition Science and Policy focus
- Full-time or part-time options
- One science course admission requirement
- Generous scholarships available
- 30 credits, 10 courses
- 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
- World-class faculty
- Global impact opportunities
- Dedicated career services
Master's - Online Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Climate, Sustainability, and Food - Online Learning - Visit Website
Tufts University's Online Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Climate, Sustainability, and Food is tailored for professionals addressing global food challenges through a flexible online format. It requires 30 credits, can be completed in 1-2 years, and includes scholarships. Admission necessitates a college-level science course, personal statement, and three recommendation letters. No entrance exam is mentioned, emphasizing accessibility for those passionate about sustainability.
- Online format
- Focus on sustainability
- 30 credits required
- 1-2 years completion
- Generous scholarships available
- College-level science prerequisite
- Personal statement required
- Three recommendation letters
- Flexible for professionals
- Global food challenges focus
Merrimack College
North Andover, MA - Private 4-year - merrimack.edu
Bachelor's - Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences is a four-year on-campus program that prepares students for careers in clinical nutrition, public health, and wellness through hands-on training. It includes guaranteed internships and clinical experiences, with a focus on addressing health challenges like obesity. Accredited by NECHE, this program does not require an ACT or SAT entrance exam and is part of the School of Nursing & Health Sciences.
- 4-year on-campus program
- 100% internship participation
- NECHE accredited program
- Guaranteed clinical experience
- Multiple career pathway options
- Cutting-edge nutrition research
- Fall and Spring start terms
- School of Nursing & Health Sciences
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance at Merrimack College is an ACEND-accredited, two-year program designed to train registered dietitian nutritionists with a broad focus. It includes 54 credits and 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning, covering sports, clinical, community, and foodservice settings. No GRE is required, and scholarships can reduce tuition costs. This STEM-designated program offers a pathway to the RDN credential.
- ACEND-accredited program
- Full-time, 2-year program
- 54 total credits
- 1,000 hours supervised learning
- Sports nutrition focus
- $1,100 per credit
- No GRE required
- Dean Scholarship available
- STEM-designated program
- Pathway to RDN credential
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance
Concentration: Sports/Human Performance - Campus Based - Visit Website
Merrimack College's Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance with a concentration in Sports/Human Performance is an ACEND-accredited program that emphasizes sports nutrition. It requires 54 credits and 1,000 hours of supervised learning, preparing students for roles in performance nutrition. No GRE is needed, and scholarships are available. This full-time, two-year program is STEM-designated and leads to RDN credentialing.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 1,000 hours supervised learning
- Sports/human performance focus
- 54 total credit hours
- Full-time 2-year program
- No GRE required
- Scholarships available
- Career-ready curriculum
- Multiple practice rotations
- STEM designated program
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance with a Clinical concentration at Merrimack College focuses on clinical and sports nutrition, accredited by ACEND. It involves 54 credits and 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning, integrating evidence-based care. No GRE is required, and scholarships can lower costs. This two-year, full-time program prepares graduates for the RDN exam and careers in dietetics.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 54 credit hours
- 1,000 hours supervised learning
- Sports/clinical nutrition focus
- No GRE required
- Multiple scholarship opportunities
- Full-time, 2-year program
- STEM designated degree
- Prepares for RDN credentialing exam
- Specialization in human performance
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Concentration: Business and Entrepreneurship in Nutrition - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northeastern University's online Master of Science in Applied Nutrition with a concentration in Business and Entrepreneurship in Nutrition focuses on integrating nutrition science with business strategies for health innovation. This program, completable in under two years, is designed for working professionals and does not require an entrance exam, as it is promoted for flexibility. Taught by registered dietitians, it covers evidence-based practices in nutrition counseling, health promotion, and entrepreneurial ventures, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare and wellness industries.
- Online Master's in Applied Nutrition
- Less than two years completion
- Business Nutrition Concentration
- Four diverse concentration options
- Taught by registered dietitians
- 49-51 quarter hours total
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Real-world practitioner instruction
- Career-focused nutrition education
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Applied Nutrition with a concentration in Nutrition Education at Northeastern University emphasizes developing skills in nutrition communication and wellness program design. This program, which can be finished in less than two years and has no entrance exam requirement, is led by practitioners and focuses on disease prevention and health promotion through evidence-based methods. It prepares students for diverse careers in nutrition education, leveraging a comprehensive curriculum for real-world impact.
- Online program flexibility.
- Focus on Nutrition Education.
- Completable in under two years.
- Real-world practitioner led.
- Comprehensive nutrition curriculum.
- Emphasis on disease prevention.
- Health promotion strategies.
- Evidence-based education approach.
- Prepares for diverse nutrition careers.
- Integrates best practices and tools.
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition and Fitness - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northeastern University's online Master of Science in Applied Nutrition with a concentration in Nutrition and Fitness combines scientific knowledge with practical applications in fitness and health behavior. Completed in under two years with no entrance exam needed, this program is ideal for professionals seeking roles in nutrition and fitness industries. It includes instruction from experienced practitioners on evidence-based strategies for disease prevention, health promotion, and clinical practices, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for impactful careers.
- Online Master's program.
- Focus on Nutrition and Fitness.
- Led by real-world practitioners.
- Completable in less than two years.
- Evidence-based education approach.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
- Focus on disease prevention.
- Health promotion emphasis.
- Clinical behavior studies.
North Shore Community College
Danvers, MA - Public 2-Year - northshore.edu
Associate - Nutritional Science and Diet Technology
Campus Based - Visit Website
North Shore Community College offers an Associate in Science in Nutritional Science and Diet Technology, preparing students for roles as Dietetic Technicians. The program focuses on developing skills in nutrient intake analysis, menu planning, and creating specialized diets for diverse populations. Graduates are equipped for careers in healthcare, food service, and wellness sectors. Pending ACEND accreditation expected by Fall 2026, this campus-based program may provide free tuition for eligible Massachusetts residents. As an associate degree, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams. For more information, contact the Nutrition Department Chair.
- Associate in Science degree
- Prepares Dietetic Technicians
- Skills in nutrient analysis
- Menu planning
- Special diet creation
- Pending ACEND accreditation
- Free tuition for eligible
- Contact for details
2026 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in Massachusetts
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Merrimack College |
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List of Programs by City
Boston, MA
Boston University
- Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics Track - Campus Based - Website
- Dietetics Track focus.
- Meets ACEND requirements.
- Covers nutrition sciences.
- Gateway courses required.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- Includes BU Hub education.
- Clinical nutrition emphasis.
- Public health preparation.
- Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition & Health Track - Campus Based - Website
- 128 total credits required
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Multiple concentration options
- Science-based nutrition curriculum
- Minimum 16 credits concentration area
- Interdisciplinary health approach
- Critical thinking emphasis
- Advanced problem-solving skills
- Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science Track - Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for medical school
- Strong science foundation
- Enhances critical thinking
- Includes organic chemistry
- Offers nutrition research
- 128 credit program
- Minimum GPA 2.0
- Career in public health
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition & Metabolism
Campus Based - Website
- 1-2 year program duration
- Full-time or part-time options
- Campus-based learning
- 32 credit curriculum
- Original research required
- Small class sizes
- Personalized mentoring
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition+Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration
- ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship
- Clinical concentration focus
- 100% RDN exam pass rate
- State-of-the-art clinical simulation center
- Guaranteed $10,000 merit scholarship
- Graduate Assistantships available
- STEM-eligible degree program
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- STEM-eligible program.
- Customizable study focus.
- Research project required.
- Optional practicum experience.
- Merit scholarships available.
- Graduate assistantships offered.
- No dietetic internship included.
- Faculty support in various fields.
Northeastern University
- Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Concentration: Business and Entrepreneurship in Nutrition - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's in Applied Nutrition
- Less than two years completion
- Business Nutrition Concentration
- Four diverse concentration options
- Taught by registered dietitians
- 49-51 quarter hours total
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Real-world practitioner instruction
- Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Education - Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- Focus on Nutrition Education.
- Completable in under two years.
- Real-world practitioner led.
- Comprehensive nutrition curriculum.
- Emphasis on disease prevention.
- Health promotion strategies.
- Evidence-based education approach.
- Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition and Fitness - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's program.
- Focus on Nutrition and Fitness.
- Led by real-world practitioners.
- Completable in less than two years.
- Evidence-based education approach.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
- Focus on disease prevention.
Simmons University
- Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN credential.
- Located in Boston.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Pathway to master's degree.
- Rigorous science curriculum.
- Specialized nutrition studies.
- Community nutrition focus.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion
Online Learning - Website
- Online and on-campus options.
- Tracks in Applied Nutrition, Entrepreneurship.
- 30 credit program.
- B or better required in courses.
- Prerequisites in chemistry, biology.
- Prepares for careers in public health.
- Faculty are experts in their fields.
- Customizable study plans.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion
Concentration: Applied Nutrition Science - Online Learning - Website
- 30 credit program.
- Online or on-campus options.
- Applied Nutrition Science concentration.
- B or better required in courses.
- Prerequisites in science and nutrition.
- Focus on research and health promotion.
- Prepares for diverse nutrition careers.
- Customizable with elective courses.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion
Concentration: Entrepreneurship - Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility
- Entrepreneurship concentration available
- Combines nutrition and business skills
- Culminates with a business plan
- Ideal for working professionals
- Prerequisites in science and nutrition
- Courses from Simmons School of Management
- Prepares for various sectors
Danvers, MA
North Shore Community College
- Associate - Nutritional Science and Diet Technology
Campus Based - Website
- Associate in Science degree
- Prepares Dietetic Technicians
- Skills in nutrient analysis
- Menu planning
- Special diet creation
- Pending ACEND accreditation
- Free tuition for eligible
- Contact for details
Medford, MA
Tufts University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- Accelerated MS in Nutrition.
- On Campus or Online.
- Full Time or Part Time.
- Count undergraduate courses.
- Scholarships available.
- Application fee waived.
- Tuition deposit waived.
- Interdisciplinary research focus.
- Master's - Online Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Climate, Sustainability, and Food - Online Learning - Website
- Online format
- Focus on sustainability
- 30 credits required
- 1-2 years completion
- Generous scholarships available
- College-level science prerequisite
- Personal statement required
- Three recommendation letters
- Master's - Online Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science and Policy - Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility
- Nutrition Science and Policy focus
- Full-time or part-time options
- One science course admission requirement
- Generous scholarships available
- 30 credits, 10 courses
- 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
- World-class faculty
North Andover, MA
Merrimack College
- Bachelor's - Nutritional Sciences
Campus Based - Website
- 4-year on-campus program
- 100% internship participation
- NECHE accredited program
- Guaranteed clinical experience
- Multiple career pathway options
- Cutting-edge nutrition research
- Fall and Spring start terms
- School of Nursing & Health Sciences
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- Full-time, 2-year program
- 54 total credits
- 1,000 hours supervised learning
- Sports nutrition focus
- $1,100 per credit
- No GRE required
- Dean Scholarship available
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- 54 credit hours
- 1,000 hours supervised learning
- Sports/clinical nutrition focus
- No GRE required
- Multiple scholarship opportunities
- Full-time, 2-year program
- STEM designated degree
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance
Concentration: Sports/Human Performance - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- 1,000 hours supervised learning
- Sports/human performance focus
- 54 total credit hours
- Full-time 2-year program
- No GRE required
- Scholarships available
- Career-ready curriculum
Choosing the Right Program for You
Quick Selection Guide
Choose Boston University for comprehensive ACEND-accredited training and clinical excellence.
BU offers multiple Bachelor’s tracks (Nutrition Science, Dietetics, Nutrition & Health) plus innovative Master’s programs including MS in Nutrition + Dietetic Internship with 100% RDN exam pass rate, state-of-the-art clinical simulation center, and guaranteed $10,000 merit scholarships. Perfect for students seeking prestigious education with proven outcomes.
Select Tufts University for innovative online programs and global impact focus.
Tufts provides flexible online Master’s programs featuring unique concentrations in Nutrition Science and Policy, Climate Sustainability and Food, plus Accelerated MS options for undergraduates. Offers generous scholarships, minimal prerequisites (one science course), and world-class faculty for working professionals.
Consider Simmons University for flexible learning formats and entrepreneurship focus.
Simmons offers ACEND-accredited Bachelor’s program plus innovative Master’s in Nutrition and Health Promotion with unique Entrepreneurship concentration, online and on-campus options, and business plan culmination. Ideal for students seeking to bridge nutrition science with business innovation.
Choose specialized programs for unique career goals.
Merrimack College for sports nutrition focus with ACEND accreditation, Northeastern University for applied nutrition with business emphasis, or North Shore Community College for affordable associate-level Dietetic Technician preparation with pending ACEND accreditation.
Types of Programs
Associate Level Foundation Programs
North Shore Community College: Associate in Science in Nutritional Science and Diet Technology preparing students for Dietetic Technician roles with focus on nutrient analysis, menu planning, and specialized diet development. Features pending ACEND accreditation for Fall 2026 and potential free tuition for qualifying Massachusetts residents.
Bachelor’s Level Comprehensive Training
Boston University: Multiple Bachelor’s options (128 credits):
- Nutrition Science Track for pre-health preparation and graduate studies
- ACEND-accredited Dietetics Track for RDN credential preparation
- Nutrition & Health Track for public health and communications careers
Simmons University: ACEND-accredited BS in Nutrition and Dietetics emphasizing hands-on learning across Boston hospitals and community settings, with comprehensive curriculum in food science, community nutrition, and medical nutrition therapy.
Merrimack College: Nutritional Sciences Bachelor’s program featuring 100% internship participation, guaranteed clinical experience, and focus on obesity prevention and food system disparities with hands-on learning approach.
Graduate Level Advanced Studies
Boston University: Comprehensive Master’s offerings including:
- MS in Nutrition (STEM-eligible, research-focused)
- MS in Nutrition + Dietetic Internship with Clinical concentration (16 months, 100% pass rate)
- MS in Nutrition & Metabolism (interdisciplinary, 1-2 years)
Tufts University: Innovative online programs featuring:
- Accelerated MS in Nutrition (undergraduate course credit transfer)
- MS with Nutrition Science and Policy concentration
- MS with Climate, Sustainability, and Food concentration
Simmons University: Flexible Master’s in Nutrition and Health Promotion (30 credits) with concentrations in:
- Applied Nutrition Science for research and health promotion
- Entrepreneurship for business innovation in nutrition
Northeastern University: Online Master’s in Applied Nutrition (49-51 quarter hours, <2 years) with concentrations in:
- Business and Entrepreneurship in Nutrition
- Nutrition Education
- Nutrition and Fitness
Merrimack College: ACEND-accredited Master’s in Nutrition and Human Performance (54 credits, 1,000 supervised hours) with concentrations in:
- Sports/Human Performance for athletic nutrition
- Clinical for healthcare settings
Admission and Requirements
Entrance Exam Policies
Massachusetts programs show varied approaches to standardized testing:
- ACT/SAT Required: Boston University, Merrimack College undergraduate programs, North Shore Community College
- No GRE Required: Tufts online programs, Northeastern University, Merrimack College, Simmons University (varies by program)
- Minimal Prerequisites: Tufts requires only one college-level science course for admission
Academic Performance Standards
Undergraduate Programs:
- Boston University: Minimum 2.0 GPA, C+ average required for Dietetics Track gateway courses
- Simmons University: Standard undergraduate admission materials
- Merrimack College: Competitive admission standards
Graduate Programs:
- Simmons University: B or better required in courses, prerequisites in chemistry and biology
- Boston University: Competitive admission for ACEND-accredited programs
- Tufts University: Accessible admission with minimal science prerequisites
Professional Prerequisites
Graduate programs typically require:
- Science coursework (chemistry, biology, nutrition)
- DPD verification for dietetic internship programs
- Personal statements and recommendation letters
- Bachelor’s degree completion for graduate admission
Financial Investment
Scholarship and Financial Support Excellence
Boston University: Guaranteed $10,000 merit scholarships for dietetic internship program, graduate assistantships, and merit scholarships across programs.
Tufts University: Generous scholarships available, application and tuition deposit fees waived for Tufts undergraduates.
Merrimack College: Dean Scholarships available, competitive pricing at $1,100 per credit.
North Shore Community College: Potential free tuition for qualifying Massachusetts residents.
Private University Investment
Massachusetts programs justify premium pricing through:
- ACEND accreditation ensuring professional recognition
- 100% RDN exam pass rates (Boston University)
- State-of-the-art facilities including clinical simulation centers
- Boston location advantages with access to top hospitals and research institutions
Career Outcome Projections
Massachusetts programs demonstrate exceptional professional prospects:
- 100% RDN exam pass rates at leading institutions
- STEM designation enabling OPT extensions for international students
- Boston healthcare sector providing extensive career opportunities
- Global network access through prestigious university alumni connections
Learning Formats and Flexibility
Comprehensive Online Excellence
Tufts University: World-class online programs with full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 years) options, accommodating personal and professional commitments.
Northeastern University: Practitioner-led online programs designed for working professionals with evidence-based curriculum and real-world instruction.
Simmons University: Flexible online and on-campus options with evening classes for working students.
Campus-Based Comprehensive Experience
Traditional campus programs featuring:
- State-of-the-art clinical simulation centers (Boston University)
- Hands-on learning across Boston hospitals (Simmons University)
- 100% internship participation (Merrimack College)
- Research opportunities with world-class faculty
Hybrid Learning Innovation
Multiple institutions offer hybrid formats combining online convenience with practical experiences:
- Supervised practice rotations in clinical settings
- Community-based learning opportunities
- Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Career Specializations
Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics
Boston University: Comprehensive clinical training with ACEND accreditation, 100% RDN exam pass rates, and state-of-the-art simulation facilities.
Merrimack College: Clinical concentration with 1,000 supervised learning hours and sports nutrition integration.
Sports and Performance Nutrition
Merrimack College: Specialized Sports/Human Performance concentration within ACEND-accredited program, featuring athletic nutrition expertise and performance optimization.
Public Health and Community Nutrition
Multiple programs emphasize population health:
- Community nutrition and health promotion strategies
- Obesity prevention and chronic disease management
- Food system disparities and social justice applications
- Global health challenges and sustainability focus
Business and Entrepreneurship
Simmons University: Unique Entrepreneurship concentration integrating nutrition science with business innovation, culminating in personalized business plan development.
Northeastern University: Business and Entrepreneurship concentration preparing graduates for leadership roles in nutrition industry.
Climate and Sustainability
Tufts University: Cutting-edge Climate, Sustainability, and Food concentration addressing global food challenges and environmental nutrition.
Research and Advanced Practice
Boston University: Research-focused programs with STEM designation, original research requirements, and preparation for doctoral studies or medical school.