Boston is home to some of the nation’s most respected nutrition and dietetics programs, offering students the chance to study at top universities with strong clinical and research ties. From bachelor’s degrees that build a foundation in nutrition science to online master’s programs designed for working professionals, students can find flexible and accredited pathways to meet their career goals. These programs balance rigorous coursework with hands-on experience in hospitals, community settings, and applied research.
Average Cost & Duration
Average Cost: Based on Simmons, BU, and Northeastern, tuition typically ranges from $30,000 to $55,000 per year, with public universities sometimes lower and private institutions on the higher end.
Average Duration:
- Bachelor’s programs: ~4 years (128 credits at BU, similar at Simmons).
- Master’s programs: 1–2 years (Northeastern under 2 years, BU and Simmons ~2 years).
A safe average across levels is 4 years for bachelor’s degrees and about 2 years for master’s degrees.
2025 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Boston
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 offers an exceptional ACEND-accredited pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Located in the heart of Boston, this comprehensive undergraduate program combines rigorous scientific training with specialized nutrition studies. Students explore critical areas like food science, community nutrition, and medical nutrition therapy through hands-on learning experiences in renowned hospitals and community settings. The curriculum strategically prepares students for professional credentialing while providing a seamless transition to graduate studies. Admission requires standard undergraduate materials, making it accessible for passionate students eager to impact public health through nutrition expertise.
- 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 delivers a versatile graduate experience for professionals seeking advanced nutrition knowledge. Offering both online and on-campus formats, this program caters to diverse learning preferences. Students can choose between Applied Nutrition Science and Entrepreneurship tracks, enabling personalized career development. The comprehensive curriculum explores nutritional science, health promotion strategies, and complex social factors influencing dietary behaviors. With prerequisite requirements in chemistry, biology, and nutrition, the program ensures rigorous academic preparation. Graduates emerge equipped for dynamic careers in public health, private practice, and wellness industries.
- 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 Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion with Applied Nutrition Science concentration represents an advanced educational pathway for nutrition professionals. This meticulously designed program emphasizes research methodologies, nutritional wellness, and sophisticated health promotion strategies. Online and on-campus options provide flexibility for working professionals and full-time students. The curriculum demands academic excellence, requiring a minimum B grade in each course. Prerequisites in chemistry, biology, and nutrition ensure a strong foundational understanding. Graduates gain sophisticated skills in interpreting and applying nutrition science, positioning themselves for impactful roles in research, community nutrition, and specialized healthcare settings.
- 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 Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Promotion with Entrepreneurship concentration uniquely blends nutrition science and business innovation. This forward-thinking online program prepares students to launch transformative ventures across for-profit, non-profit, and government sectors. Leveraging courses from the Simmons School of Management, students develop comprehensive skills to address complex nutritional challenges through entrepreneurial approaches. The curriculum culminates in a personalized business plan, reflecting individual career aspirations. With flexible part-time study options and rigorous prerequisites in science and nutrition, this program empowers professionals to create meaningful impact in health promotion through strategic, innovative leadership.
- 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 Nutrition Science Track BS offers a robust foundation for students targeting medical, dental, or veterinary graduate paths. This scientifically rigorous program cultivates advanced critical thinking through comprehensive coursework in organic chemistry, systems physiology, and nutrition research. Students develop strong analytical skills while exploring biological and chemical sciences, preparing for diverse biomedical and public health careers. The flexible 128-credit curriculum accommodates various student backgrounds, requiring a minimum 2.0 GPA for admission. Strategic course selection enables graduates to excel in research, communication, and professional scientific 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 provides comprehensive preparation for aspiring Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. Fully accredited by ACEND, the program ensures graduates meet professional standards for supervised practice programs. Rigorous coursework integrates biological, chemical, and nutrition sciences with BU Hub general education requirements. Students must maintain a C+ average in gateway courses, developing expertise in clinical nutrition, public health interventions, and research methodologies. The curriculum strategically positions graduates to successfully complete the CDR national registration exam and pursue 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 holistic approach to nutrition education. This comprehensive BS program prepares students for diverse health-related careers through an interdisciplinary curriculum. Students explore critical sciences including chemistry, physiology, and microbiology while gaining specialized knowledge in life cycle nutrition, community health, and chronic disease prevention. The flexible 128-credit program emphasizes critical thinking and advanced problem-solving skills. With a minimum 2.0 GPA requirement and opportunities to specialize in multiple concentration areas, graduates are equipped to excel in public health, communications, and athletic nutrition sectors.
- 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 empowers students to advance in nutrition research, public health, and industry sectors. This comprehensive program emphasizes research evaluation, problem-solving, and effective communication strategies. While not including a dietetic internship, the STEM-eligible curriculum offers customizable study paths with faculty mentorship. Students complete a mandatory research project and can opt for additional practicum experiences. International students benefit from potential OPT extensions, and merit scholarships enhance accessibility. The program strategically prepares professionals for medical school, career advancement, and interdisciplinary nutrition roles.
- 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 a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. This ACEND-accredited, 16-month program uniquely combines graduate-level coursework with a full-time clinical dietetic internship. Students benefit from state-of-the-art clinical simulation training, ensuring 100% national exam pass rates. The program's clinical concentration provides extensive hands-on experience through staff relief and specialty rotations. With guaranteed merit scholarships, graduate assistantships, and STEM-eligibility, this program offers an accessible and strategic approach to professional nutrition and dietetic practice.
- 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 approach to advanced nutritional studies. Designed for ambitious professionals, this program blends nutrition, biology, and health sciences with flexible full-time and part-time options. Students engage in original research, benefiting from small class sizes and personalized mentoring. The 32-credit curriculum explores complex topics like obesity and diabetes, preparing graduates for diverse roles in research, academia, and healthcare. Located in the academic hub of Boston, students access world-class resources and opportunities to publish research, making it an ideal preparation for medical school and advanced scientific careers.
- 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
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 Master of Science in Applied Nutrition with Business and Entrepreneurship concentration delivers a transformative educational experience for professionals seeking advanced nutrition leadership skills. This online program strategically prepares students to navigate complex health challenges through innovative business-focused nutrition strategies. By integrating entrepreneurial principles with scientific nutrition knowledge, students learn to develop sustainable wellness solutions, create impactful health interventions, and drive nutritional innovation. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based approaches, enabling graduates to launch nutrition-related ventures, consult for healthcare organizations, and address emerging industry trends. Designed for working professionals, the program offers unparalleled flexibility and can be completed in under two years.
- 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
Northeastern University's Master of Science in Applied Nutrition with Nutrition Education concentration equips professionals to become dynamic nutrition educators and communicators. This comprehensive online program develops advanced skills in curriculum design, health communication, and community nutrition strategies. Students explore sophisticated techniques for developing educational interventions, addressing population health challenges, and implementing evidence-based nutrition communication methods. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in designing wellness programs, interpreting nutritional research, and effectively translating complex scientific information for diverse audiences. Ideal for educators, healthcare professionals, and public health advocates, the program prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions in nutrition education across various institutional and community settings.
- 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 Master of Science in Applied Nutrition with Nutrition and Fitness concentration provides a cutting-edge approach to understanding holistic health and wellness. This online program combines advanced nutritional science with comprehensive fitness strategies, preparing professionals to address complex health challenges. Students develop sophisticated skills in designing personalized wellness programs, analyzing metabolic interactions, and creating integrated health interventions. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices in nutrition, exercise physiology, and clinical behavior modification. Graduates gain expertise in developing targeted nutrition and fitness strategies for diverse populations, positioning them as innovative practitioners in healthcare, athletic performance, and wellness industries.
- 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.
2025 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in Boston
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Simmons University |
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| Boston University |
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| Northeastern University |
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How to Choose the Right Program for You
1. Define Your Career Goals First
- Want to become a Registered Dietitian (RD)? Look for ACEND-accredited programs
- Interested in research or medical school? Focus on science-heavy curricula
- Planning to start your own nutrition business? Consider entrepreneurship tracks
- Need flexibility for work? Evaluate online vs. campus-based options
2. Consider Your Current Background
- No nutrition background: Start with bachelor’s programs
- Have nutrition/health degree: Master’s programs may be suitable
- Working professional: Online or part-time options essential
- Recent graduate: Full-time campus programs offer immersive experience
3. Evaluate Program Structure
- Time commitment: 4 years (bachelor’s) vs. 1-2 years (master’s)
- Learning format: Campus-based, online, or hybrid options
- Prerequisites: Some programs require specific science courses
- Specialization timing: Some allow early concentration, others require core foundation
Program Distinctions by Institution
Simmons University – The Practical Pathway
Distinguishing Features:
- Only school offering both bachelor’s and master’s pathways to RD credential
- Strong Boston hospital partnerships for hands-on experience
- Entrepreneurship track unique among the three institutions
- Evening classes accommodate working professionals
- Clear progression from bachelor’s to master’s programs
Best For:
- Students wanting guaranteed RD pathway
- Those seeking entrepreneurial skills
- Working professionals needing flexible scheduling
Key Programs:
- BS Nutrition & Dietetics (ACEND-accredited)
- MS Nutrition & Health Promotion (Applied Science or Entrepreneurship tracks)
Boston University – The Research Powerhouse
Distinguishing Features:
- Most comprehensive master’s options (4 different programs)
- Only institution with dedicated Nutrition & Metabolism program
- 100% RDN exam pass rate for MS+Dietetic Internship program
- STEM-eligible programs (important for international students)
- State-of-the-art clinical simulation center
- Guaranteed merit scholarships for MS+DI students
Best For:
- Pre-med students (Nutrition Science track)
- Research-focused students
- International students seeking STEM eligibility
- Those wanting clinical specialization
Key Programs:
- BS Nutrition (3 concentration tracks)
- MS Nutrition (research-focused)
- MS Nutrition+Dietetic Internship (Clinical concentration)
- MS Nutrition & Metabolism (interdisciplinary)
Northeastern University – The Professional-Focused Option
Distinguishing Features:
- Exclusively online master’s programs
- Taught by real-world practitioners, not just academics
- Fastest completion time (under 2 years)
- Most business-oriented approach to nutrition
- Four specialized concentration options
- Designed specifically for working professionals
Best For:
- Working professionals unable to attend campus
- Those seeking business applications of nutrition
- Career changers needing flexible timing
- Students wanting practitioner-led instruction
Key Programs:
- MS Applied Nutrition (Business & Entrepreneurship)
- MS Applied Nutrition (Nutrition Education)
- MS Applied Nutrition (Nutrition & Fitness)
Quick Decision Matrix
| Priority | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Become an RD | Simmons BS or BU MS+DI |
| Research Career | BU MS Nutrition or MS Nutrition & Metabolism |
| Start Nutrition Business | Simmons Entrepreneurship or Northeastern Business track |
| Work Full-Time While Studying | Northeastern (online) or Simmons (evening) |
| Medical School Prep | BU Nutrition Science track |
| International Student | BU (STEM-eligible programs) |
| Fastest Completion | Northeastern (under 2 years) |
| Most Hands-On Experience | Simmons (hospital partnerships) or BU (simulation center) |
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
- Do I need to become a Registered Dietitian? (Requires ACEND-accredited program)
- Can I attend classes on campus? (Affects choice between institutions)
- What’s my timeline? (Bachelor’s: 4 years, Master’s: 1-2 years)
- Do I need to work while studying? (Online/evening options crucial)
- Am I interested in research vs. practice? (Different programs emphasize different approaches)
- What’s my budget? (Consider merit scholarships and assistantships)
Bottom Line
Choose Simmons for a practical, RD-focused education with entrepreneurial opportunities and Boston hospital connections.
Choose Boston University for the most comprehensive options, research emphasis, guaranteed RD exam success, and STEM eligibility.
Choose Northeastern for maximum flexibility, practitioner-led instruction, and fast-track professional development while working.