Missouri provides a range of nutrition degree programs at a variety of costs and durations. A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years, with annual tuition for Missouri residents ranging from $8,100 to $11,400. Master’s programs can be completed in as little as 15 to 18 months, with graduate tuition for state residents ranging from $5,900 to $11,900 per year.
The University of Central Missouri offers hybrid master’s degrees with specialized tracks in clinical and sports nutrition.
Northwest Missouri State University provides both an affordable undergraduate program and an online master’s, with a low total cost of $13,380.
Southeast Missouri State University has multiple undergraduate tracks, including a Didactic Program in Dietetics and Nutrition Science, and a fast-track hybrid master’s degree that can be completed in just 15 months.
The University of Missouri and Missouri State University also offer comprehensive bachelor’s and master’s programs with high registration exam pass rates and specialized concentrations.
See our analysis of the top ranked programs below.
2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Missouri
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MO - Public 4-Year - semo.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Missouri State University's Nutrition Bachelor's program delivers a comprehensive educational journey across three specialized tracks: Didactic Program in Dietetics, Nutrition and Wellness, and Nutrition Science. ACEND-accredited, the program emphasizes evidence-based nutritional principles and provides immersive hands-on experiences in clinical, community, and food service environments. With an affordable Missouri resident tuition of $267.75 per credit hour and a 3.0 GPA admission requirement, students develop critical skills for diverse healthcare and wellness careers. The program prepares graduates for registered dietitian credentialing, community health education, and potential advanced academic pursuits.
- ACEND-accredited nutrition program
- Three specialized track options
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Missouri resident tuition $267.75/credit
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prepare for RDN credentialing
- Career paths in healthcare, wellness
Bachelor's - Nutrition
Concentration: Didactic Program in Dietetics - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Missouri State University's Didactic Program in Dietetics provides a rigorous academic pathway for aspiring registered dietitian nutritionists. Students engage in comprehensive training across clinical, community, and food service settings, developing sophisticated nutritional expertise. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices, the program prepares students for post-undergraduate internships and professional credentialing. Featuring an impressive 80% graduate success rate, students complete 120 credit hours, prepare for national registration exams, and gain extensive practical experience to launch successful nutrition careers.
- ACEND-accredited Didactic Program
- Three specialized nutrition tracks
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Prepare for RDN credentialing
- 120 credit hour degree program
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Multiple internship opportunities
- Career paths in healthcare, wellness
Bachelor's - Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition and Wellness - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nutrition and Wellness concentration at Southeast Missouri State University equips students to become proactive health educators focused on disease prevention and holistic wellness. This ACEND-accredited program offers immersive, hands-on experiences in clinical and community settings, preparing graduates for impactful roles in wellness centers and healthcare environments. With a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and comprehensive curriculum, students develop advanced skills in health promotion, nutrition management, and preventative care strategies. The program provides a robust foundation for further academic pursuits or immediate professional engagement.
- ACEND-accredited program
- Hands-on experience
- Nutrition and Wellness track
- Minimum GPA 3.0 required
- On-campus program
- Prepares for health educator roles
- Focus on disease prevention
- Clinical and community settings
- Food service management
- Opportunities for further education
Bachelor's - Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science - Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Missouri State University's Nutrition Science concentration offers a robust, science-driven pathway for students targeting medical school or advanced graduate studies. This meticulously designed program provides extensive hands-on experiences in clinical, community, and food service domains. With a 3.0 GPA admission requirement and affordable Missouri resident tuition, students receive comprehensive training from dedicated faculty. The curriculum emphasizes nutritional principles, research methodologies, and practical skills, preparing graduates for sophisticated scientific careers in nutrition, research, and potential medical professional trajectories.
- BS in Nutrition
- Nutrition Science concentration
- On-Campus program
- Main Campus location
- Hands-on experience
- Prepares for medical school
- Dedicated faculty
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Missouri resident tuition $267.75
- Nonresident tuition $437.50
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
This hybrid Master of Science in Applied Nutrition at Southeast Missouri State University offers an accelerated 15-month pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. The ACEND-accredited program strategically blends online coursework with supervised experiential learning, focusing on evidence-based medical nutrition therapy and community nutrition practices. Requiring a 3.0 GPA, DPD verification, and 750 hours of relevant experience, students complete a comprehensive curriculum and capstone research project. Graduates can expect promising career opportunities in healthcare settings with an average salary of $69,350, positioned for success in diverse nutritional professional domains.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 15-month duration
- Hybrid online and in-person
- Prepares for RD exam
- Capstone research project
- Field experience options
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- DPD verification needed
- 750 hours experience required
- Career in healthcare settings
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO - Public 4-Year - ucmo.edu
Master's - Nutrition MS
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Missouri's Master of Science in Nutrition is a hybrid program that blends online coursework with supervised experiential learning in the Kansas City area, accredited by ACEND. It prepares students for the RDN exam in 18 months, offering an automatic $1,000 scholarship and affordable tuition. The curriculum includes hands-on experiences in clinical, community, and management settings, with access to modern research facilities. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- ACEND accredited program
- 18-month completion time
- Hybrid online and in-person learning
- $1,000 automatic scholarship
- Prepares for RDN exam
- Supervised experiential learning
- Affordable tuition rates
- Clinical, community, and management focus
- Modern research facilities available
- 15 students per cohort
Master's - Nutrition MS
Concentration: Clinical Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Focused on Clinical Nutrition, this hybrid Master of Science in Nutrition at the University of Central Missouri combines online learning with in-person experiences, accredited by ACEND. It prepares for the RDN exam in 1.5 years, featuring a $1,000 enrollment scholarship and affordable tuition. The program emphasizes clinical, community, and management aspects with supervised learning. No entrance exam is required for this master's level degree.
- Hybrid program format
- ACEND accredited
- $1,000 enrollment scholarship
- 1.5 year completion time
- Prepares for RDN exam
- Combines online and in-person learning
- Focus on clinical nutrition
- Supervised experiential learning
- Affordable tuition rates
- Early adopter of FEM
Master's - Nutrition MS
Concentration: Sport Nutrition - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Sport Nutrition concentration in the Master of Science in Nutrition at the University of Central Missouri is offered online or hybrid, catering to aspiring sports nutritionists. It boasts a 100% job placement rate and requires an undergraduate GPA above 3.00, with prerequisites in chemistry, biology, and nutrition. The program includes hands-on learning, thesis options, and access to state-of-the-art labs, preparing for RDN certification. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Flexible online/hybrid format.
- 100% job placement rate.
- Requires undergraduate GPA >3.00.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Competitive tuition rates.
- Thesis and non-thesis options.
- State-of-the-art labs access.
- Faculty with diverse expertise.
- Prepares for RDN certification.
- Focus on sports nutrition.
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, MO - Public 4-Year - nwmissouri.edu
Bachelor's - Foods and Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwest Missouri State University's Foods and Nutrition program offers a comprehensive education with two tracks: a Dietetics pathway for RDN credentialing and a general nutrition track for health careers. It includes hands-on labs, a required practicum, and ACEND accreditation, preparing students with science-based training. Admission for this bachelor's program may require ACT or SAT exams, though specifics are not provided in the data.
- ACEND-accredited dietetics program
- Two distinct program tracks
- Hands-on foods and nutrition labs
- 40-hour dietetics practicum required
- Pathway to RDN credentialing
- Multiple degree options: B.S., B.A.S.
- Specialized physical assessment training
- Professional career preparation
- Optional minor programs available
- Career opportunities in multiple settings
Bachelor's - Foods and Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Visit Website
This campus-based Foods and Nutrition program with a Dietetics concentration at Northwest Missouri State University is ACEND-accredited and prepares students for the RDN exam through coursework, practicum, and a four-step process. Admission requires a 2.9 GPA and prerequisite courses; for this bachelor's program, ACT or SAT exams may be required, though not specified.
- ACEND-accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- Includes dietetics practicum.
- Covers nutrition science.
- Food service management.
- Medical nutrition therapy.
- Requires 2.9 GPA for admission.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships for eligible students.
- Four-step RDN preparation process.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: General Nutrition - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Nutrition with a General Nutrition concentration at Northwest Missouri State University focuses on evidence-based research, global policies, and leadership skills. It requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and 9 nutrition credit hours, but no entrance exam is mentioned. Affordable and flexible, it can be completed in 12 months for $13,380.
- Online program
- General Nutrition concentration
- 30 credit hours
- Total tuition $13,380
- Completion in 12 months
- Bachelor's degree required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- 9 Nutrition credit hours prerequisite
- Accredited by ACEND
- Focus on leadership skills
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics Internship - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northwest Missouri State University's online Master of Science in Nutrition includes a Dietetics Internship track, offering advanced training in evidence-based practices and leadership. It requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, but no entrance exam is mentioned. Priced at $13,380 for 30 credits, it's designed for working professionals in public health and clinical roles.
- Online master's degree format
- Two specialized track options
- ACEND-accredited program
- Total tuition $13,380
- 30 credit hour curriculum
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Prepares for diverse nutrition careers
- Dietetics Internship track available
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO - Public 4-Year - missouri.edu
Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
Concentration: Nutrition and Foods - Campus Based - Visit Website
The BS in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology with a Nutrition and Foods concentration at the University of Missouri-Columbia offers two specialized tracks: Dietetics for RD Exam eligibility and Food Science for non-dietetics roles. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA, with a 3.0 needed for the Dietetics track, and an ACT or SAT exam is typically required for bachelor's programs. The curriculum integrates biomedical sciences, general education, and professional courses, including supervised practice for Dietetics students. Graduates are prepared for careers in healthcare, food industry, and community nutrition, with opportunities for further education. This campus-based program is military-friendly and benefits from an on-campus hospital.
- Two tracks: Dietetics and Food Science.
- Dietetics track leads to RD Exam eligibility.
- 3.0 GPA required for Dietetics track.
- Includes supervised practice experiences.
- Prepares for careers in healthcare and food industry.
- Opportunities for further education.
- Blends science and professional courses.
- Admission requires 2.0 GPA.
- Focus on biomedical and nutrition sciences.
- Curriculum includes general education.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
Concentration: Nutritional Sciences - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology with a Nutritional Sciences concentration at the University of Missouri-Columbia focuses on advanced research and practical skills in nutrition science. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA in science and math, with prerequisites in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, and human nutrition; an entrance exam such as the GRE may be required for master's programs. International students must meet English proficiency standards. The program prepares graduates for roles in research, healthcare, and public health, with financial aid and assistantships available. It is campus-based, military-friendly, and supported by an on-campus hospital.
- Campus-based program.
- Concentration in Nutritional Sciences.
- Requires 3.0 GPA in science/math.
- Prerequisites in chemistry, biology.
- English proficiency for internationals.
- Research and practical skills focus.
- Prepares for advanced nutrition careers.
- Financial aid available.
- Assistantships may be offered.
Missouri State University
Springfield, MO - Public 4-Year - missouristate.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Visit Website
Missouri State University-Springfield's Nutrition and Dietetics bachelor's program, requiring an ACT or SAT for admission, prepares students to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN) with a comprehensive curriculum in clinical, community, and food service nutrition. It boasts a 98% internship acceptance rate, 93% registration exam pass rate, and 100% employment in the field, supported by ACEND accreditation and opportunities for education abroad, service-learning, and faculty research.
- Full ACEND accreditation
- 98% internship acceptance rate
- 93% registration exam pass rate
- 100% employment in field
- Three nutrition focus areas
- Education abroad opportunities
- Service-learning experiences
- Research with faculty
- Licensed RDN faculty
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: population health or health promotion - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Missouri State University-Springfield, with a concentration in population health or health promotion, requires an entrance exam for admission. This 1.5-year campus-based program, starting June 2025, prepares students for RDN roles with ACEND accreditation, emphasizing community health, transfer credits up to 12, and one-on-one faculty support, leading to graduation by December 2026.
- 1.5-year program timeline
- Campus-based learning
- Focus on population health
- Accredited by ACEND
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- One-on-one faculty attention
- Community health emphasis
- Starts June 2025
- Graduates by December 2026
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: public affairs - Campus Based - Visit Website
Missouri State University-Springfield's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, concentrating on public affairs, requires an entrance exam for admission. This 1.5-year program focuses on population health, offering eligibility for the RDN exam, transfer of up to 12 credits, and a campus-based learning environment with networking opportunities and ACEND accreditation, starting in June.
- 1.5-year program timeline
- Accredited by ACEND
- Concentration in public affairs
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- Focus on population health
- Close faculty support
- Networking opportunities
- Community aid emphasis
- Campus-based program
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: rural health - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Missouri State University-Springfield, with a rural health concentration, requires an entrance exam for admission. This 1.5-year program, starting June 2025, emphasizes population health and prepares students for RDN roles, featuring ACEND accreditation, transfer credits for RDNs, competitive admission, and faculty mentorship, with graduation by December 2026.
- 1.5-year program timeline
- Campus-based learning
- Rural health concentration
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Transfer credits for RDNs
- Competitive admission
- Population health emphasis
- Faculty mentorship
- Networking opportunities
- ACEND accredited
College of the Ozarks
Point Lookout, MO - Private 4-year - cofo.edu
Bachelor's - Applied Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
College of the Ozarks offers a bachelor's-level Applied Nutrition program on campus, integrating a Christian worldview with scientific principles. The curriculum covers food preparation, ingredient impacts, and nutritional needs across diverse populations and life stages, preparing graduates for careers in dietetics. As a bachelor's program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. Emphasizing hands-on skills and ethical application, it is military-friendly and ideal for those passionate about health and nutrition.
- Bachelor's degree program
- Campus-based learning
- Christian worldview integration
- Focus on diverse populations
- Comprehensive food science curriculum
- Nutritional needs across lifespan
- Prepares for dietetics careers
- Hands-on food preparation
- Science of nutrition emphasis
- Impact of ingredients studied
2026 Most Affordable Nutrition Programs in MO
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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List of Missouri Nutrition Degree Programs - Associate, Bachelors, Masters
Cape Girardeau, MO
Southeast Missouri State University
- Bachelor's - Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited nutrition program
- Three specialized track options
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Missouri resident tuition $267.75/credit
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prepare for RDN credentialing
- Career paths in healthcare, wellness
- Bachelor's - Nutrition
Concentration: Didactic Program in Dietetics - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited Didactic Program
- Three specialized nutrition tracks
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Prepare for RDN credentialing
- 120 credit hour degree program
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Multiple internship opportunities
- Career paths in healthcare, wellness
- Bachelor's - Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition Science - Campus Based - Website
- BS in Nutrition
- Nutrition Science concentration
- On-Campus program
- Main Campus location
- Hands-on experience
- Prepares for medical school
- Dedicated faculty
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Bachelor's - Nutrition
Concentration: Nutrition and Wellness - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- Hands-on experience
- Nutrition and Wellness track
- Minimum GPA 3.0 required
- On-campus program
- Prepares for health educator roles
- Focus on disease prevention
- Clinical and community settings
- Master's - Master of Science in Applied Nutrition
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- 15-month duration
- Hybrid online and in-person
- Prepares for RD exam
- Capstone research project
- Field experience options
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- DPD verification needed
Columbia, MO
University of Missouri
- Bachelor's - BS in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
Concentration: Nutrition and Foods - Campus Based - Website
- Two tracks: Dietetics and Food Science.
- Dietetics track leads to RD Exam eligibility.
- 3.0 GPA required for Dietetics track.
- Includes supervised practice experiences.
- Prepares for careers in healthcare and food industry.
- Opportunities for further education.
- Blends science and professional courses.
- Admission requires 2.0 GPA.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
Concentration: Nutritional Sciences - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Concentration in Nutritional Sciences.
- Requires 3.0 GPA in science/math.
- Prerequisites in chemistry, biology.
- English proficiency for internationals.
- Research and practical skills focus.
- Prepares for advanced nutrition careers.
- Financial aid available.
Maryville, MO
Northwest Missouri State University
- Bachelor's - Foods and Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited dietetics program
- Two distinct program tracks
- Hands-on foods and nutrition labs
- 40-hour dietetics practicum required
- Pathway to RDN credentialing
- Multiple degree options: B.S., B.A.S.
- Specialized physical assessment training
- Professional career preparation
- Bachelor's - Foods and Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- Includes dietetics practicum.
- Covers nutrition science.
- Food service management.
- Medical nutrition therapy.
- Requires 2.9 GPA for admission.
- Financial aid available.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Dietetics Internship - Online Learning - Website
- Online master's degree format
- Two specialized track options
- ACEND-accredited program
- Total tuition $13,380
- 30 credit hour curriculum
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Prepares for diverse nutrition careers
- Dietetics Internship track available
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: General Nutrition - Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- General Nutrition concentration
- 30 credit hours
- Total tuition $13,380
- Completion in 12 months
- Bachelor's degree required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- 9 Nutrition credit hours prerequisite
Point Lookout, MO
College of the Ozarks
- Bachelor's - Applied Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor's degree program
- Campus-based learning
- Christian worldview integration
- Focus on diverse populations
- Comprehensive food science curriculum
- Nutritional needs across lifespan
- Prepares for dietetics careers
- Hands-on food preparation
Springfield, MO
Missouri State University
- Bachelor's - Nutrition and Dietetics
Campus Based - Website
- Full ACEND accreditation
- 98% internship acceptance rate
- 93% registration exam pass rate
- 100% employment in field
- Three nutrition focus areas
- Education abroad opportunities
- Service-learning experiences
- Research with faculty
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: population health or health promotion - Campus Based - Website
- 1.5-year program timeline
- Campus-based learning
- Focus on population health
- Accredited by ACEND
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- One-on-one faculty attention
- Community health emphasis
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: public affairs - Campus Based - Website
- 1.5-year program timeline
- Accredited by ACEND
- Concentration in public affairs
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- Focus on population health
- Close faculty support
- Networking opportunities
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Concentration: rural health - Campus Based - Website
- 1.5-year program timeline
- Campus-based learning
- Rural health concentration
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Transfer credits for RDNs
- Competitive admission
- Population health emphasis
- Faculty mentorship
Warrensburg, MO
University of Central Missouri
- Master's - Nutrition MS
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEND accredited program
- 18-month completion time
- Hybrid online and in-person learning
- $1,000 automatic scholarship
- Prepares for RDN exam
- Supervised experiential learning
- Affordable tuition rates
- Clinical, community, and management focus
- Master's - Nutrition MS
Concentration: Clinical Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- ACEND accredited
- $1,000 enrollment scholarship
- 1.5 year completion time
- Prepares for RDN exam
- Combines online and in-person learning
- Focus on clinical nutrition
- Supervised experiential learning
- Master's - Nutrition MS
Concentration: Sport Nutrition - Online Learning - Website
- Flexible online/hybrid format.
- 100% job placement rate.
- Requires undergraduate GPA >3.00.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Competitive tuition rates.
- Thesis and non-thesis options.
- State-of-the-art labs access.
- Faculty with diverse expertise.
How to Choose the Right School for You
Selecting the right nutrition program is crucial for your career success. With 6 institutions across Missouri offering diverse nutrition programs, use this guide to identify the program that best matches your goals, learning style, and circumstances.
Start with Your Career Goals
Want to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)?
- Missouri State University-Springfield – Outstanding 98% internship acceptance rate and 93% registration exam pass rate
- University of Central Missouri – ACEND-accredited 18-month hybrid MS program with $1,000 scholarship
- Southeast Missouri State University – ACEND-accredited programs with multiple pathways
- Northwest Missouri State University – ACEND-accredited dietetics program with practicum
- University of Missouri-Columbia – Dietetics track within Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
Interested in sports and exercise nutrition?
- University of Central Missouri – Sports Nutrition concentration with 100% job placement rate
- University of Missouri-Columbia – Nutrition and Exercise Physiology integration
Planning to work in rural or underserved populations?
- Missouri State University-Springfield – Rural health concentration addressing unique challenges
- Southeast Missouri State University – Community nutrition focus
- College of the Ozarks – Christian service-oriented approach
Want to pursue food science careers?
- University of Missouri-Columbia – Food Science track for non-dietetics careers
- College of the Ozarks – Applied Nutrition with food science emphasis
Interested in public health and policy?
- Missouri State University-Springfield – Public affairs and population health concentrations
- Northwest Missouri State University – General Nutrition with policy focus
Consider Your Educational Background
Ready for undergraduate study?
- Missouri State University-Springfield – Nutrition and Dietetics with exceptional outcomes
- Southeast Missouri State University – Three specialized tracks (DPD, Nutrition & Wellness, Nutrition Science)
- Northwest Missouri State University – Foods and Nutrition with two tracks
- University of Missouri-Columbia – BS in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
- College of the Ozarks – Applied Nutrition with Christian worldview
Already have a bachelor’s degree? Graduate options:
- University of Central Missouri – 18-month hybrid MS program
- Missouri State University-Springfield – 1.5-year MS with multiple concentrations
- Southeast Missouri State University – 15-month MS in Applied Nutrition
- Northwest Missouri State University – Online MS programs
- University of Missouri-Columbia – MS in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
Want accelerated pathways?
- University of Central Missouri – 18-month completion
- Missouri State University-Springfield – 1.5-year timeline
- Southeast Missouri State University – 15-month program
Learning Format Preferences
Need online flexibility?
- Northwest Missouri State University – Fully online MS programs ($13,380 total tuition)
- University of Central Missouri – Hybrid format with online coursework
- Southeast Missouri State University – Hybrid program combining online and in-person
Want traditional campus experience?
- Missouri State University-Springfield – Campus-based with outstanding faculty support
- University of Missouri-Columbia – Major research university environment
- College of the Ozarks – Unique Christian college experience
Prefer hands-on learning?
- College of the Ozarks – Emphasis on practical food preparation and science
- Southeast Missouri State University – Clinical, community, and food service experience
- University of Central Missouri – Modern research facilities and experiential learning
Financial Considerations
Looking for affordable options?
- Northwest Missouri State University – Online MS for only $13,380 total tuition
- Southeast Missouri State University – Missouri residents pay $267.75 per credit hour
- University of Central Missouri – Automatic $1,000 scholarship
Consider value and outcomes:
- Missouri State University-Springfield – 100% employment in field with excellent pass rates
- University of Central Missouri – Sports Nutrition 100% job placement rate
- College of the Ozarks – Unique work-study model may reduce costs
Geographic and Practical Factors
Location preferences:
- Springfield: Missouri State University – Third-largest city with healthcare opportunities
- Columbia: University of Missouri – University town with major research facilities
- Warrensburg: University of Central Missouri – Kansas City area access
- Cape Girardeau: Southeast Missouri State – Regional healthcare hub
- Maryville: Northwest Missouri State – Small town environment
- Point Lookout: College of the Ozarks – Rural setting with Christian focus
Clinical and internship opportunities:
- Missouri State – 98% internship acceptance rate demonstrates strong partnerships
- University of Central Missouri – Kansas City area placements
- Southeast Missouri – Multiple field experience options
Special Program Features
Unique program advantages:
- Missouri State University-Springfield – Highest internship acceptance rate (98%) in the state
- University of Central Missouri – Only 18-month hybrid program with sports nutrition option
- College of the Ozarks – Only Christian-focused nutrition program in Missouri
- University of Missouri-Columbia – Only program integrating exercise physiology
Research and specialization opportunities:
- Missouri State – Faculty research opportunities with licensed RDN faculty
- University of Missouri-Columbia – Major research university with advanced facilities
- University of Central Missouri – State-of-the-art labs and equipment access
Flexible program options:
- Missouri State – Three different concentration areas (population health, public affairs, rural health)
- Southeast Missouri – Three undergraduate tracks for different career paths
- Northwest Missouri – Thesis and non-thesis graduate options
Program Requirements and Success Rates
Outstanding outcomes:
- Missouri State University-Springfield – 98% internship acceptance, 93% exam pass rate, 100% employment
- University of Central Missouri – Sports Nutrition 100% job placement rate
- Strong ACEND accreditation across multiple programs
Admission requirements:
- Graduate programs – Generally require 3.0 GPA and nutrition prerequisites
- University of Missouri-Columbia – Requires GRE for graduate admission
- Most programs – No GRE required (except Mizzou)
Missouri-Specific Advantages
State characteristics:
- Strong healthcare systems throughout Missouri provide excellent clinical opportunities
- Agricultural heritage supports understanding of food systems and rural nutrition needs
- Diverse urban and rural populations requiring different nutrition approaches
- Coordinated university system with clear transfer pathways
Regional focus:
- Rural health emphasis addressing Missouri’s rural population needs
- Urban opportunities in Kansas City and St. Louis metropolitan areas
- Agricultural connections supporting food science and policy understanding
Making Your Decision
Consider your career timeline and goals:
Fastest RDN Pathway:
- Missouri State University-Springfield – 1.5 years with exceptional outcomes
- University of Central Missouri – 18 months with modern facilities
Most Affordable:
- Northwest Missouri State – $13,380 online master’s program
- Southeast Missouri State – Low per-credit costs for Missouri residents
Best Outcomes:
- Missouri State University-Springfield – 98% internship acceptance and 100% employment
- University of Central Missouri – 100% sports nutrition job placement
Unique Specializations:
- Sports Nutrition: University of Central Missouri
- Rural Health: Missouri State University-Springfield
- Christian Perspective: College of the Ozarks
- Exercise Integration: University of Missouri-Columbia
Evaluate your learning preferences:
- Need flexibility? Northwest Missouri State’s online programs
- Want prestigious research university? University of Missouri-Columbia
- Prefer smaller cohorts? University of Central Missouri (15 students per cohort)
- Seeking faith-based education? College of the Ozarks
Consider program timing:
- Quick completion: Multiple 15-18 month options available
- Traditional timeline: 4-year undergraduate programs
- Working professional: Online and hybrid options accommodate work schedules
Geographic and lifestyle factors:
- Major city access: University of Central Missouri (Kansas City area)
- College town: University of Missouri-Columbia
- Regional healthcare hub: Southeast Missouri State University
- Rural Christian environment: College of the Ozarks
Missouri offers exceptional nutrition education with the highest internship acceptance rates in the region and innovative program formats. The state’s strength lies in combining traditional academic excellence with practical, outcome-focused programs that address both urban and rural population needs.
Choose based on your desired outcomes (Missouri State for highest success rates), learning format preference (online, hybrid, or traditional), specialization interests (sports nutrition, rural health, faith-based), and geographic preferences. Missouri’s coordinated approach ensures quality education with strong regional connections and excellent career preparation.