South Carolina Nutrition Programs & Online Degrees

South Carolina’s nutrition degree programs offer diverse educational pathways with annual tuition costs averaging $18,150 for in-state undergraduate students and $13,467 for graduate students.

Bachelor’s degrees typically require four years of study, while master’s programs range from one to two years depending on the concentration and format. Programs emphasizing dietetic internships include over 1,000 supervised practice hours to meet evolving RDN certification requirements.

The state’s four major universities provide both traditional campus-based and hybrid online learning options, with costs ranging from South Carolina State University’s affordable $11,050 annual undergraduate tuition to Clemson’s comprehensive programs at $30,050 for in-state students.

Take look at our top ranked programs below.

2026 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in South Carolina

Looking for the best nutrition degree programs in South Carolina? NutritionDegrees.org has done the research to bring you top-ranked options that fit your career goals. We evaluate schools based on factors like accreditation, curriculum quality, and affordability to help you make an informed choice. For details on how we rank these programs, check out our methodology at https://www.nutritiondegrees.org/about-us/#ranking.
#1

Winthrop University

Rock Hill, SC - Public 4-Year - winthrop.edu

Bachelor's - Human Nutrition

Campus Based - Visit Website

Winthrop University's Human Nutrition bachelor's program is a pioneering educational pathway in South Carolina, uniquely offering comprehensive training in dietetics and health promotion. Students engage in innovative learning experiences emphasizing preventative health strategies, with diverse focus areas including foodservice management and sports nutrition. The program provides extensive hands-on skill development, boasting remarkable community outreach opportunities and research potential in nutrition and chronic disease prevention. Graduates benefit from high employability and a robust 80% internship acceptance rate, preparing them for leadership roles in nutrition and healthcare sectors.

  • Bachelor's in dietetics and health promotion.
  • Online master’s in human nutrition available.
  • Dietetic internship program offered.
  • Focus on preventative health.
  • Community outreach opportunities.
  • Hands-on, skill-focused education.
  • Innovative teaching practices.
  • Prepares for leadership in nutrition.
  • Foodservice management included.
  • Sports nutrition focus.

Bachelor's - Human Nutrition

Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Visit Website

Winthrop University's Dietetics concentration within the Human Nutrition program represents South Carolina's sole comprehensive bachelor's degree in this specialized field. The curriculum strategically prepares students for professional credentials through intensive training in clinical nutrition, foodservice management, and medical nutrition therapy. With an impressive 80% internship acceptance rate, students gain hands-on experience using cutting-edge technology like live simulators. The program's innovative approach emphasizes community outreach and chronic disease prevention, positioning graduates for successful careers as clinical dietitians, nutritionists, and healthcare professionals.

  • Only SC bachelor's in Dietetics.
  • 80% internship acceptance rate.
  • Focus on chronic disease prevention.
  • Hands-on, skill-focused education.
  • Covers sports, medical nutrition.
  • Innovative teaching practices.
  • Community outreach opportunities.
  • Prepares for dietitian credentials.
  • Unique live simulator technology.
  • High employer referral requests.

Bachelor's - Human Nutrition

Concentration: Health Promotion - Campus Based - Visit Website

Winthrop University's Health Promotion concentration in Human Nutrition offers a dynamic bachelor's degree focusing on preventative health strategies. This unique South Carolina program provides students comprehensive training in nutrition education, public health initiatives, and food service management. Utilizing advanced technologies like live simulators, students develop practical skills for careers in WIC programs, USDA extensions, and public health nutrition. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, community outreach, and research opportunities, preparing graduates to become proactive health promotion professionals in diverse community and organizational settings.

  • Bachelor of Science degree
  • Health Promotion concentration
  • Hands-on learning focus
  • Cutting-edge technology
  • Preventative health emphasis
  • Career in public health
  • Nutrition education opportunities
  • Food service management
  • Unique in South Carolina
  • Live simulator available

Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition

Online Learning - Visit Website

Winthrop University's online Master of Science in Human Nutrition delivers a flexible, comprehensive graduate education designed for aspiring nutrition professionals. The 100% digital program spans 1-2 years, requiring 30 credits aligned with ACEND® standards. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, and potential GRE submission. Curriculum emphasizes chronic disease prevention and nutrition education, strategically preparing students for the 2024 CDR certification requirement. The program offers versatile career pathways in nutrition therapy, public health, and food service management, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for diverse professional opportunities.

  • 100% online format.
  • 1-2 years to completion.
  • 30 total credits required.
  • Aligns with ACEND® standards.
  • Focus on chronic disease prevention.
  • Bachelor's degree required for admission.
  • 3.0 GPA or GRE scores needed.
  • Prerequisite courses mandatory.
  • Prepares for CDR certification.
  • Diverse career paths available.

Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition with Thesis

Campus Based - Visit Website

Winthrop University's Master of Science in Human Nutrition with Thesis program provides an advanced academic experience for nutrition research enthusiasts. This comprehensive 30-hour campus-based program integrates rigorous coursework in applied statistics, research methods, and specialized nutrition studies. The mandatory thesis component allows students to conduct focused research, ideal for those pursuing advanced careers or future doctoral studies. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with specific prerequisites, offering financial aid options. Emphasizing critical thinking and research skills, the program prepares students for sophisticated roles in nutrition science and academic research.

  • 30-hour program
  • Thesis required
  • Campus-based learning
  • Core and elective courses
  • Research methods focus
  • Statistics for sciences
  • Vitamin metabolism study
  • Electives across disciplines
  • Financial aid available
  • Bachelor's degree required

Master's - Master of Science/Dietetic Internship

Concentration: Dietetic Internship - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Winthrop University's hybrid Master of Science/Dietetic Internship program offers a cutting-edge pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). ACEND-accredited and located in Rock Hill, SC, this program combines academic coursework with over 1000 hours of supervised practice in nutrition therapy, public health, and food management. Competitive admissions process includes academic review and personal interviews. With a remarkable 94.9% employment rate within three months of completion, the program meets the 2024 requirement of a master's degree for RDN exam eligibility, providing students a comprehensive professional preparation.

  • Hybrid program format
  • ACEND accredited
  • 1000+ supervised practice hours
  • Competitive admissions
  • 94.9% employment rate
  • Financial aid available
  • Master's degree required for RDN
  • Focus on nutrition therapy
  • Public health and food management
  • Personal interview part of admissions
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

Clemson University

Clemson, SC - Public 4-Year - clemson.edu

Bachelor's - Food Science and Human Nutrition

Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website

Clemson University's B.S. in Food Science and Human Nutrition with a Nutrition concentration offers four emphasis areas: Dietetics (ACEND-accredited), Basic and Behavioral Science, Community Health and Wellness, and Food Industry, preparing students for careers in nutrition, dietetics, and healthcare. The program blends science with practical skills, focusing on nutrients and human health, and includes hands-on learning opportunities. Admission requires meeting Clemson's undergraduate criteria, which may include ACT or SAT exams. Located in Clemson, SC, it provides a comprehensive education for a health-focused future.

  • Four emphasis areas available.
  • Dietetics emphasis ACEND accredited.
  • Focus on nutrients and health.
  • Located in Clemson, SC.
  • Hands-on learning opportunities.
  • Meets undergraduate admission criteria.
  • Comprehensive health education.
  • Blends science and practical skills.

Bachelor's - Food Science and Human Nutrition

Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Visit Website

Clemson University's Dietetics concentration within the Food Science and Human Nutrition program is an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics, preparing students for the RDN credential with a 95% dietetic internship acceptance rate. The curriculum covers medical nutrition therapy, nutrition counseling, and food service management, focusing on clinical, community, and food service settings. Admission for this bachelor's level program may require ACT or SAT exams as part of Clemson's undergraduate criteria, and students should maintain a strong GPA and engage in volunteer experiences.

  • ACEND-accredited Didactic Program
  • 95% dietetic internship acceptance rate
  • Multiple practice setting opportunities
  • Comprehensive nutrition science curriculum
  • Prepares for RDN credentialing

Bachelor's - Food Science and Human Nutrition

Concentration: Basic and Behavioral Science - Campus Based - Visit Website

Clemson University's B.S. in Food Science and Human Nutrition with a Basic and Behavioral Science concentration focuses on the relationship between nutrients and human health, providing a solid foundation in basic and applied sciences. It prepares students for careers in nutrition, healthcare, and foodservice, emphasizing sustainable, safe, and nutritious foods through a flexible curriculum. Admission requires meeting Clemson's undergraduate criteria, which may include ACT or SAT exams, and is ideal for those advancing their understanding of nutrition science and wellness.

  • Concentration in Basic and Behavioral Science.
  • Prepares for careers in nutrition and healthcare.
  • Flexible curriculum aligns with professional goals.
  • Focus on sustainable and nutritious foods.
  • Solid foundation in basic and applied sciences.

Master's - Food, Nutrition and Culinary Sciences, M.S.

Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website

Clemson University's M.S. in Food, Nutrition and Culinary Sciences with a Nutrition concentration offers a comprehensive curriculum with thesis and non-thesis options, emphasizing interdisciplinary research, critical thinking, and preparation for advanced roles in nutrition science and public health. Admission requires a faculty advisor commitment, and entrance exams such as the GRE may be required unless explicitly waived. The program includes research opportunities and personalized guidance to address contemporary nutrition challenges.

  • M.S. with Nutrition concentration
  • Thesis and non-thesis options
  • Interdisciplinary research focus
  • Faculty advisor required for admission
  • Emphasizes critical thinking skills
  • Prepares for advanced nutrition roles
  • Personalized academic guidance
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Research opportunities available
  • Focus on contemporary nutrition challenges
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

South Carolina State University

Orangeburg, SC - Public 4-Year - scsu.edu

Bachelor's - Nutrition and Food Management

Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website

South Carolina State University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Management with a concentration in Nutrition is an ACEND-accredited program, the only one at an HBCU in South Carolina. It prepares students for careers as dietitians or nutritionists through rigorous coursework in food science and nutrition, combined with hands-on community experiences focused on chronic disease prevention. Admission requires meeting university standards, including ACT or SAT exams for bachelor's level entry, and the program leads to a master's degree for RDN certification by 2024.

  • ACEND-accredited nutrition program
  • Only HBCU in SC with this accreditation
  • Hands-on community experience
  • Expert RDN faculty
  • Bachelor's to RDN path
  • Focus on chronic disease prevention
  • Nutrition and food science coursework
  • Community and healthcare settings training
  • Master's required for RDN by 2024
  • Scholarship opportunities available

Bachelor's - Nutrition and Food Management

Concentration: Food Management - Campus Based - Visit Website

South Carolina State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Management with a concentration in Food Management, an ACEND-accredited program unique as the only HBCU offering in South Carolina. It emphasizes hands-on learning in food chemistry and microbiology for careers in food science and public health, with field experiences in community settings. Admission requires ACT or SAT exams for bachelor's level entry, and this track does not lead to RD or RDN credentials.

  • ACEND-accredited program
  • Food Management concentration
  • Hands-on learning opportunities
  • Expert faculty guidance
  • Community field experiences
  • Focus on food science careers
  • Unique HBCU offering in SC
  • Combines chemistry and microbiology
  • Prepares for diverse roles
  • No RD or RDN path

Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences

Concentration: Nutritional Health Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences with a concentration in Nutritional Health Care at South Carolina State University is a hybrid ACEND-accredited program that prepares students for roles in healthcare and government. It focuses on addressing food insecurity and chronic health issues through a low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio, personalized mentorship, and real-world experiences. Admission is open to those with a bachelor's degree, and no entrance exam is specified as required.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • ACEND accredited
  • Low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • Focus on Nutritional Health Care
  • Real-world field experiences
  • Prepares for dietitian registration
  • Open to various undergraduate degrees
  • Small class sizes
  • Expert faculty mentorship
  • Addresses food insecurity

Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences

Concentration: Food and Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

South Carolina State University's Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences with a concentration in Food and Nutrition is a hybrid ACEND-accredited program, the only one at an HBCU in the state. It focuses on combating food insecurity and improving dietary health through expert faculty mentorship, a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and experiential learning in communities and labs. Admission welcomes diverse undergraduate backgrounds, with no entrance exam specified as required.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • ACEND accredited
  • 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • Focus on Food and Nutrition
  • Real-world experiential learning
  • Prepares for dietitian roles
  • Expert faculty mentorship
  • Community health focus
  • Flexible admission requirements
  • Leadership in nutritional sciences
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#4

Newberry College

Newberry, SC - Private 4-year - newberry.edu

Bachelor's - Nutrition

Concentration: Functional Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Newberry College offers a hybrid Functional Nutrition program that combines online flexibility with on-campus learning, ideal for students managing multiple commitments. The curriculum emphasizes the science behind nutrition's role in disease prevention and recovery, incorporating hands-on field experience starting in the junior year. Core courses include biology, chemistry, and human anatomy, preparing graduates for careers as nutritionists or wellness consultants. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with a preference for science backgrounds. As a bachelor's-level program, it does not require an ACT or SAT entrance exam, focusing instead on academic prerequisites.

  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Focus on Functional Nutrition.
  • Field experience from junior year.
  • Covers biology and chemistry.
  • Prepares for nutritionist roles.
  • Flexible for various life stages.
  • Science courses preferred for admission.
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

2026 Low Cost Nutrition Programs in SC

Finding affordable nutrition programs in South Carolina is key for students. Low tuition helps more people access education in cities like Columbia and Charleston. These programs offer quality without high costs, making them economical and cost-effective. In 2026, options at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels are available across the state, supporting career growth in health fields.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Winthrop University
  • Hybrid program format
  • ACEND accredited
  • 1000+ supervised practice hours
  • Competitive admissions
  • 94.9% employment rate
  • Financial aid available
  • Master's degree required for RDN
  • Focus on nutrition therapy
  • $13,000 - $19,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $24,600 - $36,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
  • $12,800 - $19,100 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $24,200 - $36,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
South Carolina State University
  • Hybrid learning format
  • ACEND accredited
  • 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • Focus on Food and Nutrition
  • Real-world experiential learning
  • Prepares for dietitian roles
  • Expert faculty mentorship
  • Community health focus
  • $9,200 - $13,800 (Graduate In-State)
  • $18,100 - $27,100 (Graduate Non-Resident)
  • $8,800 - $13,300 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $17,400 - $26,100 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Newberry College
  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Focus on Functional Nutrition.
  • Field experience from junior year.
  • Covers biology and chemistry.
  • Prepares for nutritionist roles.
  • Flexible for various life stages.
  • Science courses preferred for admission.
  • $24,000 - $36,100 (Undergraduate)
Clemson University
  • Concentration in Basic and Behavioral Science.
  • Prepares for careers in nutrition and healthcare.
  • Flexible curriculum aligns with professional goals.
  • Focus on sustainable and nutritious foods.
  • Solid foundation in basic and applied sciences.
  • Prepares for advanced nutrition roles
  • Personalized academic guidance
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • $12,400 - $18,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $31,600 - $47,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
  • $10,100 - $15,200 (Graduate In-State)
  • $19,800 - $29,800 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*U.S. Department of Education, NCES, IPEDS 2023 data files.

List of South Carolina Nutrition Degree Programs - Associate, Bachelors, Masters

If you're looking for nutrition degree programs in South Carolina, we've gathered a list of schools offering associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. Each entry includes the city and state, highlights of the program, and links to learn more. Explore the options below to find the right fit for your education goals.
Jump to City:

Clemson, SC

Clemson University

  • Bachelor's - Food Science and Human Nutrition

    Concentration: Basic and Behavioral Science - Campus Based - Website

    • Concentration in Basic and Behavioral Science.
    • Prepares for careers in nutrition and healthcare.
    • Flexible curriculum aligns with professional goals.
    • Focus on sustainable and nutritious foods.
    • Solid foundation in basic and applied sciences.
  • Bachelor's - Food Science and Human Nutrition

    Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Website

    • ACEND-accredited Didactic Program
    • 95% dietetic internship acceptance rate
    • Multiple practice setting opportunities
    • Comprehensive nutrition science curriculum
    • Prepares for RDN credentialing
  • Bachelor's - Food Science and Human Nutrition

    Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Website

    • Four emphasis areas available.
    • Dietetics emphasis ACEND accredited.
    • Focus on nutrients and health.
    • Located in Clemson, SC.
    • Hands-on learning opportunities.
    • Meets undergraduate admission criteria.
    • Comprehensive health education.
    • Blends science and practical skills.
  • Master's - Food, Nutrition and Culinary Sciences, M.S.

    Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Website

    • M.S. with Nutrition concentration
    • Thesis and non-thesis options
    • Interdisciplinary research focus
    • Faculty advisor required for admission
    • Emphasizes critical thinking skills
    • Prepares for advanced nutrition roles
    • Personalized academic guidance
    • Comprehensive curriculum

Newberry, SC

Newberry College

  • Bachelor's - Nutrition

    Concentration: Functional Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format.
    • Focus on Functional Nutrition.
    • Field experience from junior year.
    • Covers biology and chemistry.
    • Prepares for nutritionist roles.
    • Flexible for various life stages.
    • Science courses preferred for admission.

Orangeburg, SC

South Carolina State University

  • Bachelor's - Nutrition and Food Management

    Concentration: Food Management - Campus Based - Website

    • ACEND-accredited program
    • Food Management concentration
    • Hands-on learning opportunities
    • Expert faculty guidance
    • Community field experiences
    • Focus on food science careers
    • Unique HBCU offering in SC
    • Combines chemistry and microbiology
  • Bachelor's - Nutrition and Food Management

    Concentration: Nutrition - Campus Based - Website

    • ACEND-accredited nutrition program
    • Only HBCU in SC with this accreditation
    • Hands-on community experience
    • Expert RDN faculty
    • Bachelor's to RDN path
    • Focus on chronic disease prevention
    • Nutrition and food science coursework
    • Community and healthcare settings training
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences

    Concentration: Food and Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • ACEND accredited
    • 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
    • Focus on Food and Nutrition
    • Real-world experiential learning
    • Prepares for dietitian roles
    • Expert faculty mentorship
    • Community health focus
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences

    Concentration: Nutritional Health Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • ACEND accredited
    • Low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
    • Focus on Nutritional Health Care
    • Real-world field experiences
    • Prepares for dietitian registration
    • Open to various undergraduate degrees
    • Small class sizes

Rock Hill, SC

Winthrop University

  • Bachelor's - Human Nutrition

    Campus Based - Website

    • Bachelor's in dietetics and health promotion.
    • Online master’s in human nutrition available.
    • Dietetic internship program offered.
    • Focus on preventative health.
    • Community outreach opportunities.
    • Hands-on, skill-focused education.
    • Innovative teaching practices.
    • Prepares for leadership in nutrition.
  • Bachelor's - Human Nutrition

    Concentration: Dietetics - Campus Based - Website

    • Only SC bachelor's in Dietetics.
    • 80% internship acceptance rate.
    • Focus on chronic disease prevention.
    • Hands-on, skill-focused education.
    • Covers sports, medical nutrition.
    • Innovative teaching practices.
    • Community outreach opportunities.
    • Prepares for dietitian credentials.
  • Bachelor's - Human Nutrition

    Concentration: Health Promotion - Campus Based - Website

    • Bachelor of Science degree
    • Health Promotion concentration
    • Hands-on learning focus
    • Cutting-edge technology
    • Preventative health emphasis
    • Career in public health
    • Nutrition education opportunities
    • Food service management
  • Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition with Thesis

    Campus Based - Website

    • 30-hour program
    • Thesis required
    • Campus-based learning
    • Core and elective courses
    • Research methods focus
    • Statistics for sciences
    • Vitamin metabolism study
    • Electives across disciplines
  • Master's - Master of Science in Human Nutrition

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online format.
    • 1-2 years to completion.
    • 30 total credits required.
    • Aligns with ACEND® standards.
    • Focus on chronic disease prevention.
    • Bachelor's degree required for admission.
    • 3.0 GPA or GRE scores needed.
    • Prerequisite courses mandatory.
  • Master's - Master of Science/Dietetic Internship

    Concentration: Dietetic Internship - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • ACEND accredited
    • 1000+ supervised practice hours
    • Competitive admissions
    • 94.9% employment rate
    • Financial aid available
    • Master's degree required for RDN
    • Focus on nutrition therapy
*Data extracted from: NCES IPEDS 2023 public dataset.

How to Choose the Right Nutrition School for You?

Selecting the right nutrition program is crucial for your career success. With 4 excellent institutions across South Carolina 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)? Look for ACEND-accredited programs that prepare you for the RDN exam:

  • Winthrop University – ACEND-accredited MS/Dietetic Internship with 94.9% employment rate and 1000+ supervised practice hours
  • Clemson University – ACEND-accredited Dietetics emphasis with 95% dietetic internship acceptance rate
  • South Carolina State University – ACEND-accredited programs (only HBCU in SC with this accreditation)
  • Winthrop University – Bachelor’s in Dietetics (South Carolina’s only comprehensive bachelor’s program)

Interested in functional and holistic nutrition?

  • Newberry College – Unique Functional Nutrition concentration emphasizing preventative healthcare and holistic wellness

Planning to work in community and public health nutrition? Programs with strong public health components:

  • Winthrop University – Health Promotion concentration focusing on disease prevention
  • South Carolina State University – Strong focus on addressing food insecurity and chronic health issues
  • Clemson University – Community Health and Wellness emphasis area

Want to work in food science and management?

  • South Carolina State University – Food Management concentration preparing for food science careers
  • Clemson University – Food Industry emphasis and Food Science components

Consider Your Educational Background

Starting with a bachelor’s degree? Graduate entry options:

  • Winthrop University – Online MS in Human Nutrition (30 credits, 1-2 years)
  • Winthrop University – MS/Dietetic Internship hybrid program
  • South Carolina State University – Hybrid MS in Nutritional Sciences programs
  • Clemson University – MS in Food, Nutrition, and Culinary Sciences

Need undergraduate preparation? Strong bachelor’s programs:

  • Winthrop University – Human Nutrition with Dietetics or Health Promotion concentrations
  • Clemson University – Food Science and Human Nutrition with multiple emphasis areas
  • South Carolina State University – Nutrition and Food Management with dual concentrations
  • Newberry College – Functional Nutrition (hybrid format)

Want accelerated or integrated pathways?

  • Winthrop University – MS/Dietetic Internship combines master’s degree with internship

Learning Format Preferences

Prefer online flexibility?

  • Winthrop University – 100% online MS in Human Nutrition
  • Newberry College – Hybrid Functional Nutrition program
  • South Carolina State University – Hybrid MS programs combining online and in-person learning

Want traditional campus experience? All programs offer campus-based options with:

  • Winthrop University – Live simulator technology and hands-on learning
  • Clemson University – Comprehensive laboratory and research facilities
  • South Carolina State University – Low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • Newberry College – Field placements starting junior year

Financial Considerations

Looking for affordable options?

  • Public universities (Winthrop, Clemson, South Carolina State) offer lower tuition for SC residents
  • South Carolina State University – Scholarship opportunities available
  • All programs – Financial aid available

Consider program outcomes vs. cost:

  • Winthrop University – 94.9% employment rate for MS/DI graduates
  • Clemson University – 95% dietetic internship acceptance rate
  • Winthrop University – 80% internship acceptance rate for bachelor’s program

Geographic and Practical Factors

Location preferences:

  • Rock Hill: Winthrop University – Close to Charlotte, NC opportunities
  • Clemson: Clemson University – University town with research focus
  • Orangeburg: South Carolina State University – HBCU environment with personalized attention
  • Newberry: Newberry College – Small college town with individualized education

Clinical and internship placement quality:

  • Winthrop University – High employer referral requests and strong industry connections
  • Clemson University – Multiple practice setting opportunities
  • South Carolina State University – Real-world field experiences and community focus
  • Newberry College – Field placements in clinical and wellness settings

Special Program Features

Unique concentrations and approaches:

  • Newberry College – Only Functional Nutrition program in SC
  • South Carolina State University – Only HBCU in SC with ACEND accreditation
  • Winthrop University – Only comprehensive bachelor’s dietetics program in SC
  • Clemson University – Four distinct emphasis areas within one program

Technology and innovation:

  • Winthrop University – Live simulator technology and cutting-edge teaching methods
  • Clemson University – Focus on sustainable and safe food practices
  • South Carolina State University – Emphasis on addressing contemporary food insecurity

Research opportunities:

  • Clemson University – Thesis and non-thesis tracks with interdisciplinary research focus
  • Winthrop University – MS with Thesis option for advanced research
  • South Carolina State University – Community and laboratory work integration

Program Outcomes and Success Rates

Strongest outcome statistics:

  • Clemson University – 95% dietetic internship acceptance rate
  • Winthrop University – 94.9% employment rate for MS/DI graduates
  • Winthrop University – 80% internship acceptance rate for bachelor’s program
  • South Carolina State University – Strong preparation for dietitian registration

Career preparation focus:

  • Winthrop University – Leadership roles in nutrition and dietetics
  • Clemson University – Diverse careers in nutrition, healthcare, and food service
  • South Carolina State University – Healthcare and government agency positions
  • Newberry College – Wellness consultants and health education professionals

Specialized Considerations

HBCU experience:

  • South Carolina State University – Unique opportunity for HBCU education with ACEND accreditation

Small college environment:

  • Newberry College – Personalized attention and flexible program format
  • South Carolina State University – Low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio

Research university experience:

  • Clemson University – Major research university with extensive resources
  • Winthrop University – Strong research opportunities and innovative teaching

Making Your Decision

Create a comparison chart with your top 3-4 programs, rating each on:

  • Career goal alignment (1-10)
  • Learning format preference (1-10)
  • Geographic and lifestyle fit (1-10)
  • Cost and financial considerations (1-10)
  • Program reputation and outcomes (1-10)
  • Unique features and opportunities (1-10)

Consider your learning style:

  • Prefer cutting-edge technology? Winthrop University’s live simulator programs
  • Want research-intensive experience? Clemson University’s comprehensive research programs
  • Seeking personalized attention? South Carolina State University’s low student-faculty ratio
  • Interested in innovative approaches? Newberry College’s functional nutrition focus

Think about long-term goals:

  • Want guaranteed RDN preparation? Winthrop’s MS/DI or Clemson’s Dietetics emphasis
  • Planning careers in food industry? Clemson’s Food Industry emphasis or SC State’s Food Management
  • Interested in holistic wellness? Newberry’s Functional Nutrition or Winthrop’s Health Promotion
  • Seeking research or doctoral studies? Clemson’s thesis track programs

Visit campuses and attend information sessions when possible. South Carolina’s programs offer diverse experiences from small college environments to major research universities.

Consider program timing and requirements:

  • 2024 CDR Requirements – Master’s degree will be required for RDN eligibility
  • Internship Integration – Winthrop’s MS/DI eliminates separate internship application process
  • Prerequisite Planning – Ensure completion of required coursework for chosen programs

Evaluate total value: South Carolina offers excellent nutrition education options across different institution types and program formats. Whether you’re seeking traditional RDN preparation, innovative functional nutrition approaches, or specialized food science training, there’s likely a South Carolina program that matches your goals.