Online Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics Degree
Prepare for the CDR Exam to Become an RDN
Grand Canyon University's Master of Science (MS) in Nutrition and Dietetics is designed for bachelor’s degree holders who would like to position themselves for possible career advancement in the healthcare field. The instructors who teach this online master's degree in nutrition and dietetics strive to prepare you to take the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credentialing examination, which is required to become a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN).1
The online master’s degree focuses on building upon your existing undergraduate credentials in nutrition and dietetics, while helping you prepare to seek career opportunities in the dietetics profession, such as by becoming an RD or RDN.
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Benefits of Taking Nutrition and Dietetics Courses at GCU
This master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics can provide you with the opportunity to explore core competencies specific to the dietetics field, as well as gain transferrable skills. These include scientific principles, nutritional interventions, effective communication, critical thinking, responsible leadership and global awareness.
This online master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics is offered through the College of Natural Sciences. Admission to this STEM program requires a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, nutritional sciences or dietetics, or a bachelor’s degree in any field with the successful completion of relevant college-level coursework.
As an online master’s in nutrition and dietetics student, you will have access to:
- A flexible, online course schedule
- Supervised, in-person experiential learning hours throughout the program
- Guidance from faculty and mentors who possess knowledge and experience in the field of nutrition and dietetics
- A degree program that meets the high standards of ACEND accreditation
- Opportunities to apply the latest practices and developments in nutrition science
Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics Mission and Goals
GCU’s master’s in nutrition and dietetics program may be right for you if you’re motivated to help people optimize their overall health by developing personalized nutrition plans based on sound scientific principles. At GCU, you can prepare to support the health of communities and individuals.
As a graduate of this program, you have the opportunity to become more capable and confident in nutrition science best practices and strategies for providing exemplary wellness services. As a Christian university, GCU also teaches students about professional and ethical practices within the nutrition field, all presented through the lens of a Christian worldview.
The master's in nutrition and dietetics degree at GCU aims to deliver a specialized education that can help you prepare to become a leader in the fields of food, nutrition and dietetics. Through an evidence-based curriculum and emphasis on ethical practices, you are taught how to address complex challenges in these disciplines, contributing to advancements in nutritional science, public health and clinical practice. Our program is committed to fostering a community of lifelong learners who will drive innovation and positively impact the health and well-being of individuals and populations worldwide.
The MS in Nutrition and Dietetics is designed to meet and exceed the following program goals:
- Goal #1: The program can prepare graduates to take the CDR credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist. See objectives.
- Goal #2: Graduates can meet employer expectations as entry-level practitioners one year past graduation. See objectives.
Nutrition and Dietetics Course Topics
Nutrition and dietetics play a key role in supporting the health and well-being of individuals and communities.2 Throughout this program, you will have the opportunity to apply evidence-based practices through hands-on experiential learning opportunities in a specific area of nutrition or dietetics.
This master’s in nutrition and dietetics teaches key topics in nutrition science, including:
- Advanced concepts and theories in dietetics, with an emphasis on the use of nutritional therapy for the prevention, treatment and management of disease
- Behavioral science principles that speak to the influences on human behavior in the context of diet and nutrition
- Personalized nutrition interventions for patients with specific medical needs
- Evidence-based practices in medical nutrition therapy for various medical conditions
- Nutrition-related policies and procedures, including food safety and quality
- Nutritional needs of diverse populations in community settings
- Leadership skills in nutrition-related settings
Earning an online master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics at GCU requires 30 credit hours and 1,000 hours of experiential learning. The online degree consists of eight classes, with most classes being 12 weeks in length.
At the conclusion of this program, you will be required to complete a capstone project. This allows you to apply nutrition and dietetics best practices in a professional environment. You must complete the minimum amount of hours based on ACEND program requirements to participate in this project.
Career Opportunities
Possible careers in nutrition and dietetics that graduates of this program can consider include:3
- Dietitian
- Nutritionist
- Registered dietetic technician
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 6,100 new jobs are projected each year, on average, for dietitians and nutritionists from 2023 to 2033.2
Career Paths for Graduates With a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Earning an MS in Nutrition and Dietetics can help you pursue a career helping others lead healthier lives. Graduates of this program may have the opportunity to pursue careers in a range of fields and settings that touch upon nutrition and dietetics principles. Following the completion of this program, you may be eligible to sit for the national exam to become an RD or RDN.
Nutrition and Dietetics Courses From an Institutionally Accredited University
GCU is an institutionally accredited university that prioritizes quality education. For more information regarding program objectives and further details on admission requirements, please visit our graduate admissions page or review the details for the MS Nutrition and Dietetics program in the Nutrition and Dietetics Graduate Student Handbook found on the program’s accreditation page.5
Our graduate program in nutrition and dietetics is a candidacy program seeking accreditation by:
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
Phone: (312) 899-0040 x5400
Email: acend@eatright.org
Website: https://www.eatrightpro.org/acend
Online Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics FAQs
Whether you are a working professional looking to expand your career opportunities or a recent graduate seeking to specialize in nutrition and dietetics, we’ve gathered a few frequently asked questions and answers to help you reflect upon your career path options.
While both nutritionists and dietitians focus on the application of nutritional sciences, there are differences between the two when it comes to legal restrictions of what they can do. As a nutritionist, you typically cannot diagnose or treat illnesses. Registered dietitians, in contrast, are qualified to provide nutritional therapy and counseling.6
Starting in 2024, you will be required to complete an ACEND-approved program and obtain a minimum of a graduate degree to become a registered dietitian. With this, you can work toward becoming a registered dietitian (RD) in accordance with your state’s licensing requirements, and begin practicing.7 Nutritionists are often less regulated and may not have the credentials or academic background that a dietitian does. Depending on the state, nutritionists may be able to practice with no prior degree or experience.6
The requirements for nutritionists vary by state, with some states and employers mandating a relevant bachelor’s degree or certification. Licensure might be necessary in certain states, and specialized areas like pediatrics or gerontology may require further qualifications.6
It's important to note the distinction: a nutritionist typically doesn't hold the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential that students pursue in this degree program. This credential sets apart dietitians who have met specific qualifications and standards, differentiating them from nutritionists.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that about 6,100 openings for dietitians and nutritionists are projected each year, on average, over the decade (from 2023 to 2033). Many of these openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.2
A master’s in nutrition and dietetics degree is heavily focused on various sciences, such as mental, physical and nutritional sciences. Those looking to pursue this major are typically interested in the science behind nutrition and wellness, as well as the implementation of plans and strategies to improve overall health, both physically and mentally. If you have a passion for these sciences, a nutrition and dietetics degree may be right for you.
The study of nutrition and dietetics provides foundational knowledge that can be beneficial for any healthcare professional who works with patients on a regular basis, as it is directly related to overall wellness and bodily functions. Nurses especially may benefit from nutritional knowledge when educating patients on topics such as cardiovascular health, diabetes, obesity or any other related healthcare concern.8
This Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the largest organization of nutrition and dietetics practitioners in the world. Its mission is to further the nutrition and dietetics profession through research, advocacy and education.9
The Academy strives to accomplish its mission through:9
- Elevating the public perception of the nutrition and dietetics profession
- Encouraging innovation and scientific discovery through research, professional development and technology
- Collaborating with leading experts to address common food and nutrition challenges
- Working toward ending malnutrition throughout the world
- Serving as a credentialing organization to maintain professional standards
- Implementing public awareness campaigns on the importance of nutrition
Prepare to make a positive difference in the health of individuals and communities by working toward becoming an RD or RDN. Apply today to enroll in GCU’s master’s in nutrition and dietetics program.
1 Commission on Dietetic Registration. (n.d.). Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) Certification. Retrieved Sept. 28, 2023.
2 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective Sept. 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Dietitians and Nutritionists, retrieved on Nov. 26, 2024.
3 Ghani, S. (2023, Aug. 17). 14 Careers in Nutrition and Food Science (with FAQs). Indeed. Retrieved Sept. 28, 2023.
4 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 28, 2023.
5 Program outcomes data is available upon request.
6 Ford, D. (n.d.). Registered Dietitian vs. Nutritionist – Unraveling What’s the Difference. NutritionED.org. Retrieved Sept. 28, 2023.
7 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). How to Become a Dietitian or Nutritionist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 28, 2023.
8 Ernstmeyer, K. and Christman, E. (2021). Nutrition Introduction. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved Sept. 28, 2023.
9 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (n.d.). About the Academy. Eat Right PRO. Retrieved Sept. 28, 2023.
Core Courses
Course Description
This course is designed to prepare students for the graduate learning experience at Grand Canyon University. Students have opportunities to develop and strengthen the skills necessary to succeed as graduate students in the Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics in the College of Natural Sciences. Emphasis is placed on utilizing the tools for graduate success and providing understanding of competency-based learning within the Future Education Model graduate program.
Course Description
This course provides advanced knowledge in client-centered counseling techniques and the foundation of behavioral science. The course reviews the basic tenants of motivational interviewing and provides opportunity for students to apply these skills to motivate behavior change. Practicum/field experience hours: 100. Students must complete the minimum amount of hours required. State licensure requirements can vary from state to state and may require additional requirements. Students must review and adhere to their state’s requirements.
Course Description
This course provides an overview of the nutrition care process while developing a foundation for concepts of nutritional therapy in prevention and treatment of disease. It includes evidence-based practice of advanced therapies and patient management in nutrition support. Practicum/field experience hours: 100. Students must complete the minimum amount of hours required. State licensure requirements can vary from state to state and may require additional requirements. Students must review and adhere to their state’s requirements. Prerequisite: NSC-510.
Course Description
This course builds on the foundation of evidence-based practice in nutrition therapy for prevention and treatment of disease by providing experiential learning opportunities in professional settings. Students apply foundational knowledge to complete hands-on practice and implementation. Practicum/field experience hours: 200. Students must complete the minimum amount of hours required. State licensure requirements can vary from state to state and may require additional requirements. Students must review and adhere to their state’s requirements. Prerequisite: NSC 510, NSC 550.
Course Description
This course provides an overview of standardized methods of quantity food preparation, menu planning, and management practices in food and nutrition. It provides students with the opportunity to apply didactic skills and knowledge into practice through experiential learning opportunities. Practicum/field experience hours: 200. Students must complete the minimum amount of hours required. State licensure requirements can vary from state to state and may require additional requirements. Students must review and adhere to their state’s requirements.
Course Description
This course assesses the nutritional status of communities and populations. It identifies the nutrition professional's role in community-based nutrition intervention, development, and delivery of nutrition related policies, the understanding of cultural competence, and effective advocacy skills. Students apply foundational knowledge to complete hands-on practice and implementation. Practicum/field experience hours: 100. Students must complete the minimum amount of hours required. State licensure requirements can vary from state to state and may require additional requirements. Students must review and adhere to their state’s requirements.
Course Description
This course provides an exploration of leadership, management, and organization styles and behaviors within nutrition and dietetics. It examines the interaction between personal characteristics and organizational culture to equip students to develop leadership skills and strategies within the nutrition profession. Practicum/field experience hours: 50. Students must complete the minimum amount of hours required. State licensure requirements can vary from state to state and may require additional requirements. Students must review and adhere to their state’s requirements.
Course Description
This course requires students to build on the foundation of knowledge learned in the graduate program and apply evidence-based practice through hands-on experiential learning opportunities in a specified area of nutrition and dietetics. Students complete experiential learning hours to give them the hands-on experience they need to successfully enter the nutrition profession. Practicum/field experience hours: 250. Students must complete the minimum amount of hours required. State licensure requirements can vary from state to state and may require additional requirements. Students must review and adhere to their state’s requirements. Prerequisite: NSC 595, NSC 600, NSC 650.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.