Nevada Nutrition Programs & Online Degrees

Nevada offers a streamlined but highly effective nutrition education pathway with programs ranging from $2,500 to $28,200 annually depending on residency status and degree level. The state’s nutrition programs are designed as a strategic partnership between community college and university levels, creating a clear 2+2+1.5 year pathway from associate degree through master’s level education.

Average Program Costs:

• Community College (2 years): $5,000-$27,000 total
• Master’s Programs (1.5-2 years): $8,000-$56,400 total
• Complete Associate + Master’s Pathway: $13,000-$83,400 total

Typical Completion Times:

• Associate Degree: 2 years
• Master’s in Nutritional Science: 2 years
• Master’s in Nutrition with Dietetics Specialization: 1.5 years (18 months)
• Complete Pathway (Associate + Master’s): 3.5-4 years total

2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Nevada

If you're looking for the best nutrition degree programs in Nevada, you've come to the right place. At nutritiondegrees.org, we've carefully reviewed and ranked the top options to help you make an informed choice. Our rankings are based on thorough research and expert insights, ensuring you get accurate information. To learn more about how we create these rankings, check out our methodology at https://www.nutritiondegrees.org/about-us/#ranking.

#1

University of Nevada-Reno

Reno, NV - Public 4-Year - unr.edu

Master's - M.S. in Nutritional Science

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada-Reno's M.S. in Nutritional Science is a campus-based program that deepens understanding through comprehensive research and study. It offers a flexible curriculum covering nutrient functions, health, and risk factors, integrating education and engagement to prepare graduates for careers as practitioners and leaders in nutrition. This master's program may require an entrance exam; check the university's website for specifics.

• Master's degree in Nutritional Science.
• Campus-based program.
• Flexible curriculum.
• Focus on research and study.
• Prepares for careers in nutrition.

Master's - M.S. in Nutrition with a Dietetics Specialization

Concentration: Dietetics - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Nevada-Reno's M.S. in Nutrition with a Dietetics Specialization is a hybrid program combining online coursework with hands-on internship experience. Accredited by ACEND, it prepares students for the RDN exam with a focus on advanced metabolism, medical nutrition therapy, and evidence-based practice. This master's program may require an entrance exam; check the university's website for details.

• Hybrid program format
• 24 online credits
• 6 in-person internship credits
• 18-month completion time
• ACEND accredited
• Prepares for RDN exam
• Advanced metabolism focus
• Medical nutrition therapy
• Leadership in nutrition
• Evidence-based practice

Master's - M.S. in Nutritional Science

Concentration: Nutritional Science - Campus Based - Visit Website

The M.S. in Nutritional Science at University of Nevada-Reno is a campus-based program emphasizing the links between diet and health through interdisciplinary studies and research. It covers nutrient functions and health risks, requiring a bachelor's degree for admission. This master's program may necessitate an entrance exam; consult the university for more information.

• Campus-based program
• Focus on Nutritional Science
• Interdisciplinary curriculum
• Research opportunities
• Bachelor's degree required
• Hands-on learning
• Prepares for advanced careers
• Covers nutrient functions
• Health risks education
• Integrates campus resources

Show 2 More Programs ˅

#2

Truckee Meadows Community College

Reno, NV - Public 4-Year - tmcc.edu

Associate - Nutrition and Dietetics, AS

Campus Based - Visit Website

Truckee Meadows Community College offers an Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, a two-year on-campus program ideal for those starting a career in health. This degree builds a strong foundation in sciences like biology and chemistry, with specialized nutrition courses that align with professional standards and prepare students for roles such as Nutrition and Dietetic Technician (NDTR). It includes stackable certificates and a clear transfer pathway to the University of Nevada, Reno for further bachelor's studies. As an associate-level program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams. The 60-unit curriculum emphasizes practical skills for healthcare, food service, and community nutrition roles.

• Two-year transferable degree
• Stackable certificate options
• Pathway to NDTR credential
• Strong science foundation
• Transfer agreement with UNR
• 60 total program units
• Comprehensive nutrition curriculum
• Includes chemistry and biology
• Professional licensure preparation

*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2023).

Choosing the Right School for You in Nevada

Overview: Nevada’s Focused but Affordable Nutrition Education

Nevada offers a streamlined but highly effective nutrition education pathway with programs ranging from $2,500 to $28,200 annually depending on residency status and degree level. The state’s nutrition programs are designed as a strategic partnership between community college and university levels, creating a clear 2+2+1.5 year pathway from associate degree through master’s level education.

Average Program Costs:

• Community College (2 years): $5,000-$27,000 total
• Master’s Programs (1.5-2 years): $8,000-$56,400 total
• Complete Associate + Master’s Pathway: $13,000-$83,400 total

Typical Completion Times:

• Associate Degree: 2 years
• Master’s in Nutritional Science: 2 years
• Master’s in Nutrition with Dietetics Specialization: 1.5 years (18 months)
• Complete Pathway (Associate + Master’s): 3.5-4 years total

Nevada’s strength lies in its clear, affordable progression from community college through advanced degrees, with exceptional in-state tuition rates and a direct transfer agreement that eliminates barriers between educational levels.

Program Overview by Institution

University of Nevada-Reno (Research University Excellence)

Three distinct master’s programs:

• M.S. in Nutritional Science (Research Focus): Traditional campus-based research program
• M.S. in Nutritional Science (Nutritional Science Concentration): Interdisciplinary approach with hands-on research
• M.S. in Nutrition with Dietetics Specialization: ACEND-accredited hybrid program (24 online + 6 in-person credits) leading to RDN eligibility

Truckee Meadows Community College (Strategic Foundation)

• Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
• 60-unit program with strong science foundation
• Direct transfer agreement with University of Nevada-Reno
• Pathway to Nutrition and Dietetic Technician (NDTR) credential
• Stackable certificate options

Cost Analysis: Nevada’s Exceptional Value

Most Affordable Options:

1. Truckee Meadows Community College: $2,500-$3,800 (in-state), $9,000-$13,500 (out-of-state) annually
2. University of Nevada-Reno Graduate Programs: $5,300-$7,900 (in-state), $18,800-$28,200 (out-of-state) annually

Nevada offers some of the most affordable nutrition education in the western United States, particularly for in-state residents. The community college option provides an exceptionally economical entry point.

Academic Specialization and Career Preparation

For Aspiring Registered Dietitians:

Best Pathway:

1. Start at Truckee Meadows Community College (2 years)
2. Transfer to University of Nevada-Reno M.S. in Nutrition with Dietetics Specialization (1.5 years)
3. Complete ACEND-accredited program with 1,000 internship hours

For Nutrition Research Careers:

Best Options:

• University of Nevada-Reno M.S. in Nutritional Science: Research-driven with extensive hands-on opportunities
• University of Nevada-Reno M.S. in Nutritional Science (Nutritional Science Concentration): Interdisciplinary approach

For Budget-Conscious Students:

Best Pathway:

1. Truckee Meadows Community College: Most affordable foundation
2. Transfer seamlessly to UNR through established agreement

For Working Professionals:

Best Option:

• University of Nevada-Reno M.S. in Nutrition with Dietetics Specialization: Hybrid format (24 online credits) with flexible scheduling

Target Student Populations and Recommendations

Choose Truckee Meadows Community College if you:

• Want the most affordable entry point into nutrition education
• Are beginning your college journey or changing careers
• Need a strong science foundation before advanced study
• Live in the Reno area and prefer local community college experience
• Want to keep options open for multiple career paths (NDTR or transfer)
• Prefer smaller class sizes and personalized attention
• Need stackable credentials and flexible pathways

Choose University of Nevada-Reno M.S. in Nutritional Science if you:

• Are interested in nutrition research and academia
• Want to pursue doctoral studies eventually
• Prefer traditional campus-based graduate education
• Are passionate about understanding nutrient interactions and mechanisms
• Seek careers in research institutions or advanced healthcare roles
• Already have a bachelor’s degree in a related field

Choose University of Nevada-Reno M.S. in Nutrition with Dietetics Specialization if you:

• Are committed to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
• Need flexibility with online coursework (24 of 30 credits)
• Want ACEND accreditation and guaranteed RDN eligibility
• Can complete intensive internship requirements (1,000 hours)
• Prefer an accelerated timeline (18 months)
• Are interested in clinical dietetics, food service management, and nutrition education

Strategic Educational Pathways

The Nevada Advantage – Seamless Transfer Pathway:

1. Years 1-2: Truckee Meadows Community College (Associate degree, ~$5,000-$7,600 total)
2. Years 3-4.5: University of Nevada-Reno (Master’s degree, ~$8,000-$42,300 total depending on residency)
3. Total Investment: $13,000-$49,900 for complete associate + master’s education

Direct Graduate Entry:

• Enter UNR directly with bachelor’s degree for master’s programs (1.5-2 years)

Career-Change Friendly:

• Community college provides affordable career exploration
• Transfer agreement eliminates application barriers
• Multiple exit points (NDTR after associate, various master’s options)

Program Formats and Flexibility

Campus-Based Programs:

• Truckee Meadows Community College: Traditional community college experience
• UNR Nutritional Science programs: Research university environment

Hybrid Option:

• UNR Dietetics Specialization: 80% online coursework with in-person internship components

Geographic and Practical Considerations

Advantages:

• All programs located in Reno area, eliminating relocation needs
• Established transfer agreements streamline educational progression
• In-state residency provides exceptional value
• Research opportunities through UNR’s university resources

Considerations:

• Limited geographic diversity (all programs in northern Nevada)
• Smaller program sizes may mean fewer networking opportunities
• Las Vegas students may need to relocate to Reno area

Bottom Line Recommendations

For Maximum Value and Flexibility: Start at Truckee Meadows Community College and transfer to University of Nevada-Reno. This pathway provides exceptional affordability with multiple career options.

For Direct Dietetic Preparation: Choose the UNR M.S. in Nutrition with Dietetics Specialization if you already have a bachelor’s degree and want the fastest path to RDN certification with hybrid flexibility.

For Research and Academic Careers: Select UNR’s M.S. in Nutritional Science programs for comprehensive research training and potential doctoral preparation.

For Career Changers: Begin at Truckee Meadows Community College to explore nutrition affordably while building science prerequisites, then transfer based on your developing interests.

For Out-of-State Students: Consider establishing Nevada residency during community college years to access exceptional in-state graduate tuition rates.

Nevada’s nutrition education landscape is uniquely streamlined and affordable, offering clear pathways from community college through advanced degrees. The state’s strength lies not in program variety, but in the strategic partnership between institutions that eliminates transfer barriers and provides exceptional value. Whether you’re seeking the most economical path through community college, direct professional preparation for dietetics, or research-focused graduate education, Nevada’s programs offer quality education at some of the lowest costs in the western United States.