Minnesota Nutrition Programs & Online Degrees

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities' Nutrition Graduate Program stands out for its rigorous approach to nutritional science, offering both Master's (MS) and Doctoral (PhD) degrees. This program is ideal for students aiming to contribute to the field through research on dietary impacts and human health. With a strong emphasis on ethical research practices and innovation, it prepares graduates for diverse careers in research and public health. The curriculum includes thesis and project-based options, supported by financial aid opportunities. Admission is competitive, requiring a solid academic foundation. This program is a gateway for those looking to make significant contributions to nutrition science and public health policy.

• Master's and PhD options.
• Focus on nutrition and health.
• Rigorous research opportunities.
• Ethical, collaborative research environment.
• Diverse career paths post-graduation.
• Strong academic admission requirements.
• Thesis and project-based curriculum.
• Financial support available.
• Prepares for research and public health careers.
• Emphasis on integrity and innovation.

Winona State University stands out with its Public Health: Nutrition degree, a program uniquely positioned to mold students into nutrition professionals with a strong focus on population health. This program distinguishes itself by offering an in-depth curriculum that covers nutrition science, cultural dietary practices, and strategies for improving community health. A standout feature is the requirement for students to complete over 600 hours of internships and practicums, providing invaluable hands-on experience in nutrition program design, understanding dietary needs at various life stages, and advocating for equitable food access. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in health education, community development, and nutrition research, with the program also offering a pathway to RDN credentialing and a 3+2 dual graduate studies option. With a total of 120 degree credits, including 91 program-specific credits, this program is a comprehensive choice for aspiring nutrition professionals.

• Only MN public university nutrition program
• 600+ hours internship experience
• Community-based learning opportunities
• 3+2 dual graduate studies option
• Comprehensive nutrition science curriculum
• Prepares for RDN credentialing
• Program credits: 91
• Total degree credits: 120

St. Catherine University's Bachelor of Science in Applied Science in Nutrition Science blends liberal arts with public health. This program offers a 3+2 dual-degree option, culminating in a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a global health focus. Students explore the science of nutrition, including chemistry, biochemistry, and physiology, alongside societal health issues. This program prepares graduates for entry-level nutrition science positions or further graduate studies. Requires ACT/SAT

• 3+2 dual-degree program.
• Focus on global health.
• Strong science foundation.
• Prepares for graduate studies.
• Entry-level job ready.
• Includes chemistry and biochemistry.
• Public health courses included.
• Junior year MPH application.
• Nutrition and health integration.
• Liberal arts education base.

The 3+2 Bachelor of Science in Applied Science in Nutrition and Dietetics/Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics dual-degree program at St. Catherine University offers an accelerated path for aspiring dietitians. Starting in their senior year, students begin MSDT coursework, encompassing nutrition science, medical nutrition therapy, and community nutrition. This hands-on program requires a 3.0 GPA for admission and prepares students for advanced practice.

• Dual-degree 3+2 program
• Campus-based learning
• Requires 3.0 GPA for admission
• Includes graduate coursework in senior year
• Covers nutrition science and medical therapy
• Hands-on practicum/clinicals
• Focus on community nutrition
• Prepares for MSDT degree

St. Catherine University's Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Nutrition combines the study of fitness and wellness. The curriculum integrates exercise physiology, foundational nutrition, and sports nutrition. Students benefit from internship opportunities and prepare for certifications such as the ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist exam. A senior portfolio showcases student learning. Requires ACT/SAT

• BS in Exercise Science and Nutrition
• Campus-based program
• Prepares for ACSM CEP exam
• Internship opportunities available
• Senior portfolio requirement
• Covers exercise physiology
• Includes sports nutrition
• Offers nutrition education
• Focus on health behavior psychology
• Requires human anatomy courses

St. Catherine University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is a 21-month, ACEND-accredited program. The 48-credit curriculum, costing $760 per credit, covers lifecycle nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, and foodservice management. Students gain practical experience through 1,035 hours of supervised experiential learning, preparing them for the registration exam for dietitian nutritionists. The program emphasizes social justice and health equity.

• 21-month program duration
• 48 credits required
• $760 per credit tuition
• On-campus format
• 1,035 hours experiential learning
• ACEND accredited
• Focus on social justice
• Prepares for RDN exam
• Interprofessional learning opportunities
• Diverse clinical partnerships

Minnesota State University-Mankato's Nutrition and Dietetics program is a standout choice for students aiming to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). This unique program offers a combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Dietetics, designed to be completed in five years by incoming freshmen. It emphasizes hands-on learning through supervised experiential training, preparing students for the RDN examination. The curriculum covers clinical nutrition, community nutrition, and foodservice management, with access to a state-of-the-art Foods Lab. Highlights include a focus on diversity, inclusion, and engagement with professional organizations, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for licensure in Minnesota. Requires ACT/SAT.

• Combined BS and MS pathway
• Five-year completion for freshmen
• Includes supervised experiential learning
• Prepares for RDN examination
• Focus on clinical and community nutrition
• State-of-the-art Foods Lab
• Emphasis on diversity and inclusion
• Engagement with professional organizations
• Opportunities for real-world experiences
• Licensure preparation for Minnesota

The Master of Science in Dietetics at Minnesota State University-Mankato is tailored for students seeking a fast track to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). This program allows undergraduates to start earning graduate credits early, with the remaining credits completed in just one year post-bachelor's. It covers essential areas like medical nutrition therapy, community health, and nutritional supplements, alongside supervised experiential learning. The curriculum is research-focused, emphasizing evidence-based practice in nutrition education and counseling. This on-campus program is ideal for those looking to deepen their expertise in clinical and community nutrition. No GRE Required.

• Prepares for RDN exam.
• Combined undergrad and grad coursework.
• 40 total credits required.
• Includes supervised experiential learning.
• Covers medical nutrition therapy.
• Focus on community and behavioral health.
• Research and evidence in nutrition.
• Nutrition education and counseling.
• Dietetics graduate seminar.
• RDN exam preparation.

North Hennepin Community College's Nutrition Associate of Science degree is a hybrid program designed for students looking to advance into bachelor's or post-bachelor's programs in nutrition, food science, or allied-health fields. Combining online and in-person learning, the curriculum covers essential topics in biology, chemistry, and nutrition, alongside exploring cultural and life-stage nutritional needs. This program stands out for its affordability, flexibility in study schedules, and the ability to complete it in just four semesters. Emphasizing small class sizes, it offers personalized attention, preparing students for a variety of careers focused on health promotion and disease prevention through nutrition.

• Hybrid program delivery
• Affordable tuition rates
• Four-semester completion
• Small class sizes
• Prepares for bachelor's degree
• Focus on nutrition and wellness
• Cultural and life-stage perspectives
• Foundational science courses
• Personalized attention
• Career in diverse settings