2025 Best Nutrition Degree Programs in Tennessee
Looking for the best nutrition degree programs in Tennessee? nutritiondegrees.org has ranked the top options to help you start your career. Our list highlights schools that offer quality education in nutrition. We focus on programs that prepare students for success in the field. Want to know how we picked these programs? Check out our ranking methodology for details.
Lipscomb University
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - lipscomb.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lipscomb University's Master of Science in Nutrition program offers online and on-campus options, catering to both aspiring and current dietitians. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), this program provides a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing practical experience, community service, and professional ethics. Graduates are prepared for the registered dietitian credentialing exam and career advancement.
- Flexible online or on-campus study
- Accredited by ACEND
- Prepares for RD credentialing exam
- Emphasizes practical experience
- Focuses on community service
- Adheres to professional ethics
- Comprehensive curriculum
- For aspiring and current dietitians
- High-quality education standards
- Designed for career advancement
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Medical Nutrition Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lipscomb University's Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship, specializing in Medical Nutrition Therapy, blends online and on-campus learning over five semesters. Students complete over 1,000 experiential hours in clinical, outpatient, and community settings. A 3.0 GPA is required for admission, while the GRE is optional. This ACEND-accredited program prepares graduates for the registered dietitian exam. No GRE Required
- Hybrid learning format
- Accredited by ACEND
- 1,000+ experiential hours
- Five-semester program
- Year 1 online or on-campus
- Year 2 on-campus
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- GRE optional
- $1,065 per credit hour
- Financial aid available
- Medical Nutrition Therapy focus
- Prepares for RD exam
- Hands-on clinical training
- Community service opportunities
- Professional networking
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Health Promotion and Wellness - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship at Lipscomb University, with a Health Promotion and Wellness concentration, is a hybrid program. Spanning five semesters, it combines online coursework with over 1,000 hours of on-campus experiential learning. This ACEND-accredited program requires a 3.0 DPD GPA and strong recommendations. Graduates are prepared for careers as registered dietitian nutritionists.
- Hybrid program format
- Health Promotion concentration
- Five-semester duration
- 1,000+ experiential hours
- ACEND accredited
- Flexible online and on-campus
- DPD GPA 3.0 requirement
- Excellent recommendations needed
- Financial aid available
- Prepares for RD exam
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lipscomb University's hybrid Master of Science in Nutrition program, concentrating in Sports Nutrition, provides flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum includes over 1,000 experiential hours, focusing on sports nutrition principles. This ACEND-accredited program requires a 3.0 GPA, while the GRE is optional. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue the registered dietitian exam. No GRE Required
- Hybrid program format
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- 1,000+ experiential hours
- Accredited by ACEND
- Flexible for professionals
- GRE optional
- $1,065 per credit hour
- Financial aid available
- Prepares for RD exam
- High graduation rate
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - Public 4-Year - utk.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers a Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, accredited by ACEND. This hybrid program accelerates the path to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), offering a 5-year BS/MS option or a 2-year path for external applicants. It blends rigorous coursework with clinical practicums in diverse settings, focusing on specialties like pediatrics and oncology. The program emphasizes interprofessional learning, leadership, and research literacy, preparing graduates for clinical practice. Highlights include hands-on experience, mentorship, and eligibility for AHEC Scholar. 'Requires GRE' for admission.
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Hybrid program format.
- Accelerated 5-year BS/MS.
- 2-year option for externals.
- Hands-on clinical practicum.
- Interprofessional learning opportunities.
- Leadership development focus.
- Research literacy training.
- Specialty clinical practice areas.
- Diverse clinical settings.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- Cost-saving accelerated path.
- Mentorship opportunities.
- AHEC Scholar eligibility.
- Expert RDN preceptors.
Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Biomedical Nutrition Science - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Biomedical Nutrition Science at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville is designed for those aiming for careers in research and academia. It explores the link between nutrition and disease through cellular, biochemical, and molecular approaches. Students work in advanced facilities alongside experts, studying metabolic pathways, gene-nutrient interactions, and the microbiome. The program encourages publishing in peer-reviewed journals and requires a bachelor's degree with science prerequisites. Professional development is fostered through seminars, journal clubs, and mentorship. 'Requires GRE' for admission.
- Focus on nutrition and disease.
- Cellular and molecular techniques.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- Collaborations with experts.
- Emphasis on metabolic pathways.
- Gene-nutrient interactions study.
- Microbiome's role in health.
- Opportunities for publishing.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Science prerequisites needed.
- Professional development focus.
- Seminars and journal clubs.
- Mentorship opportunities.
- Career in research and academia.
- Hands-on experience provided.
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN - Public 4-Year - mtsu.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition and Food Science, Nutrition and Wellness
Campus Based - Visit Website
Middle Tennessee State University's Nutrition and Food Science Bachelor of Science program offers a comprehensive exploration of nutrition and wellness. Students dive deep into essential topics like nutrition's role in overall health, weight management strategies, and dietary impacts across life stages. The curriculum is strategically designed to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in community nutrition, public health departments, and wellness sectors. Learners gain practical knowledge through hands-on experiences, developing skills to promote healthy eating habits and nutritional awareness. With competitive tuition and accessible financial aid, the program provides an affordable pathway to a meaningful career in nutrition and health sciences.
- Campus-based program.
- Focuses on nutrition and wellness.
- Prepares for diverse careers.
- Competitive tuition costs.
- Financial aid available.
Master's - Professional Studies
Concentration: Leadership in Nutrition - Online Learning - Visit Website
Middle Tennessee State University's online Master of Professional Studies in Leadership in Nutrition represents an innovative program designed for ambitious nutrition professionals. Tailored to meet the National Commission on Dietetic Registration's upcoming master's degree requirement, this 30-hour program provides flexible, cutting-edge education for working adults. The curriculum emphasizes entrepreneurial skills, advanced leadership strategies, and effective program management. Students benefit from a GRE waiver with substantial work experience, enabling seamless academic progression. The fully online format allows learners to balance professional commitments while developing critical skills for roles like registered dietitians, wellness coaches, and nutrition leaders.
- 30-hour program
- 100% online
- No GRE required
- Flexible schedule
- Meets dietetic registration mandate
- Leadership and nutrition focus
- Entrepreneurial skills course
- Conflict management included
- Capstone project
- Internship credits available
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville, TN - Public 4-Year - tntech.edu
Bachelor's - Human Ecology
Concentration: Nutrition and Dietetics - Campus Based - Visit Website
Tennessee Technological University's Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology with a concentration in Nutrition and Dietetics is an ACEND-accredited program designed to prepare students for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. With a required 3.0 GPA for admission, the program includes prerequisites like General Chemistry and Anatomy & Physiology. It offers hands-on supervised practice, crucial for CDR exam eligibility, and focuses on enhancing life quality through nutrition. The curriculum is competency-based, aligning with future practice standards. Additional costs include lab coats and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics membership. Starting in 2024, a master's degree will be mandatory for the RDN exam. Requires ACT/SAT.
- ACEND-accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- 3.0 GPA required.
- Hands-on supervised practice.
- Master's degree required by 2024.
- Focus on quality of life.
- Specific course prerequisites.
- Lab coat required.
- Academy membership needed.
- Competency-based curriculum.
Master's - Master of Science in Community Health and Nutrition
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Community Health and Nutrition at Tennessee Technological University is tailored for dietitians and health professionals, especially those interested in rural community health. This ACEND-accredited program can be completed in 22 months, featuring a 12-hour practicum for RDN aspirants. It's ideal for educators, nurses, and others seeking nutrition-related health education, offering flexibility for working professionals. The program emphasizes practical learning without the need for a specified concentration, making it a versatile choice for advancing in the nutrition field. No GRE Required.
- Online program
- ACEND-accredited
- 22-month completion
- 12-hour practicum included
- For dietitians and health pros
- Focus on rural health
- Flexible for working students
- No concentration specified
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, TN - Public 4-Year - etsu.edu
Bachelor's - Nutrition
Campus Based - Visit Website
East Tennessee State University's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition is a comprehensive four-year program accredited by ACEND, designed to prepare students for careers in nutrition and healthcare. This campus-based program emphasizes a strong foundation in nutrition education, preparing graduates for dietetic internships or further graduate studies. With a focus on healthcare needs, students are equipped to pursue roles as registered dietitian nutritionists, engaging in nutrition education and public health. From 2024, a master's degree will be mandatory for those aiming to become RDNs. The program includes coursework essential for eligibility to sit for the registration examination. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Four-year BS program
- ACEND accredited
- Prepares for dietetic internships
- Campus-based learning
- Career opportunities in nutrition
- Requires master's degree from 2024
- Eligibility for registration exam
- Comprehensive nutrition education
- Focus on healthcare needs
- Path to becoming RDN
Master's - Clinical Nutrition, M.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition at East Tennessee State University is an ACEND-accredited program blending rigorous academic coursework with a 1000-hour dietetic internship. Tailored for aspiring dietitians, it offers both thesis and non-thesis options, covering medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and research. This on-campus program prepares students for the CDR exam, leading to careers as RDNs. Admission requires a DPD verification statement, a 3.0 GPA, and three references. Spanning four semesters, it includes supervised practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the nutrition field. No GRE Required.
- 36-40 credit curriculum
- 1000 hours supervised practice
- ACEND accredited
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Prepares for CDR exam
- Covers medical nutrition therapy
- Includes community nutrition
- Research opportunities
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- DPD verification needed
- Three references required
- On-campus program
- Four-semester duration
- Dietetic internship included
- Career as RDN possible
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - memphis.edu
Master's - MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Memphis's 16-month MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program is ACEND-accredited and combines coursework with 1200+ supervised practice hours. Focusing on adult clinical nutrition, students complete 42 credit hours, including an applied project. Graduates are eligible for the RDN exam and meet educational licensure requirements, though state-specific stipulations may apply. A bachelor's degree and DPD coursework are prerequisites.
- 16-month intensive program
- ACEND-accredited
- 42 credit hours
- 1200+ supervised practice hours
- Focus on adult clinical nutrition
- Elective tracks available
- Includes applied project
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Meets licensure education requirements
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- DPD coursework required
- On-campus program
- Starts mid-August
- Optional paid nutrition experience
- Research opportunities available
Master's - MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program
Concentration: Pediatrics - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Memphis offers an ACEND-accredited 16-month MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program with a Pediatrics concentration. Combining coursework and supervised practice, the 42-credit hour program prepares students for clinical rotations in pediatric nutrition. It includes optional paid nutrition experiences and 40-hour weekly rotations. Graduates are eligible for the RDN exam and meet dietetics licensure educational requirements, although additional state-specific requirements may apply.
- 16-month intensive program.
- ACEND-accredited.
- Pediatrics concentration available.
- 42 credit hours required.
- Combines coursework and supervised practice.
- Optional paid nutrition experiences.
- 40-hour weekly rotations.
- Eligible for RDN exam post-graduation.
- Meets licensure requirements in all states.
- Focus on clinical rotations preparation.
Master's - MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Memphis's 16-month ACEND-accredited MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program offers a Sports Nutrition concentration. Designed for aspiring RDNs, it combines didactic coursework with over 1200 hours of supervised practice in sports nutrition settings. A bachelor's degree and DPD coursework are required for admission. Graduates are prepared for the CDR credentialing exam and meet Tennessee's licensure requirements.
- ACEND-accredited program
- 16-month intensive curriculum
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- Over 1200 supervised practice hours
- Prepares for RDN credentialing exam
- Meets Tennessee licensure requirements
- Combines coursework with practical experience
- Focus on adult clinical and sports nutrition
- Optional paid nutrition experience
- Applied project required
Nashville State Community College
Nashville, TN - Public 2-Year - nscc.edu
Associate - Nutrition & Food Science
Online Learning - Visit Website
Nashville State Community College's online Associate of Science in Nutrition & Food Science is a two-year program designed to prepare students for transfer to a four-year university, with courses guaranteed to transfer within Tennessee. The program, totaling approximately $9,490 in tuition and fees, offers a comprehensive foundation in nutrition and food science, ensuring a smooth transition to further education. With its accessible admissions and online course availability, it's an excellent choice for students beginning their journey in the field. Highlights include guaranteed transfer courses, a focus on nutrition and food science, and preparation for a bachelor's degree.
- Two-year program
- Online format
- $9,490 total cost
- Guaranteed transfer courses
- Prepares for bachelor's degree
- Tennessee Transfer Pathways
- Accessible admissions
- Focus on nutrition and food science
- Seamless university transition
- Courses available online
Southwest Tennessee Community College
Memphis, TN - Public 2-Year - southwest.tn.edu
Associate - Dietetic Technician
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southwest Tennessee Community College's Dietetic Technician program is a campus-based offering that equips students with the skills needed for clinical and management roles in the food service and healthcare industries. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), this program readies students for the Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR) exam. It blends practical training with academic coursework, covering settings like hospitals and schools. Admission criteria include a 2.0 GPA and prerequisite courses with a 'C' or better. The curriculum is designed to provide extensive hands-on experience, preparing graduates for immediate entry into diverse work environments. Highlights include ACEND accreditation, DTR exam preparation, and a focus on real-world application.
- Accredited by ACEND
- Prepares for DTR exam
- Minimum GPA 2.0 required
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Hands-on experience
- Various employment settings
- Clinical and management focus
- Physical exam required
- Background check may be required
- Malpractice insurance needed
Pellissippi State Community College
Knoxville, TN - Public 2-Year - pstcc.edu
Associate - Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pellissippi State Community College in Knoxville, TN, presents an Associate of Science in Nutrition and Food Science, tailored for students planning to transfer to Tennessee's public universities. This program lays a solid foundation in human anatomy, physiology, and nutrition, complemented by a comprehensive general education curriculum. It's perfect for aspiring dietitians, food scientists, and health educators, fostering essential critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Prospective students need a high school diploma or equivalent to enroll, with various financial aid opportunities to support their education. The program not only offers practical, hands-on learning experiences but also ensures students are well-prepared for advancing to bachelor's degree programs in related fields.
- Associate of Science degree.
- Seamless transfer to TN universities.
- Focus on nutrition and food science.
- Includes human anatomy and physiology.
- General education core courses.
- Prepares for bachelor's degree programs.
- Financial aid options available.
- High school diploma required.
- Emphasizes critical thinking skills.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
Dyersburg State Community College
Dyersburg, TN - Public 2-Year - dscc.edu
Associate - Nutrition & Food Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dyersburg State Community College's Nutrition & Food Science program offers a comprehensive exploration of health and wellness, equipping students with robust knowledge in nutrition science, food safety, and dietary strategies. Students delve into intricate nutritional principles, learning to analyze dietary needs, develop nutrition plans, and understand complex metabolic processes. The curriculum strategically prepares graduates for dynamic careers in dietetics, public health nutrition, and food service management. With a practical, hands-on approach, students gain critical skills in nutritional assessment, dietary counseling, and evidence-based nutritional interventions. The program emphasizes real-world applications, ensuring students are well-prepared to address contemporary nutritional challenges and contribute meaningfully to community health initiatives.
- Campus-based program
- Focus on nutrition science
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Affordable tuition options
- Supportive financial aid
List of Tennessee Nutrition Degree Programs - Associate, Bachelors, Masters
Tennessee offers a variety of nutrition degree programs at different levels, including associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. These programs are designed to prepare students for careers in nutrition and dietetics. Below is a table listing schools in Tennessee that offer these programs, along with their locations, program highlights, and links to more information. Whether you're starting your education or advancing it, you'll find options to suit your goals.
Cookeville, TN
Tennessee Technological University
- Bachelor's - Human Ecology
Concentration: Nutrition and Dietetics - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program.
- Prepares for RDN exam.
- 3.0 GPA required.
- Hands-on supervised practice.
- Master's degree required by 2024.
- Focus on quality of life.
- Specific course prerequisites.
- Lab coat required.
- Master's - Master of Science in Community Health and Nutrition
Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- ACEND-accredited
- 22-month completion
- 12-hour practicum included
- For dietitians and health pros
- Focus on rural health
- Flexible for working students
- No concentration specified
Johnson City, TN
East Tennessee State University
- Bachelor's - Nutrition
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year BS program
- ACEND accredited
- Prepares for dietetic internships
- Campus-based learning
- Career opportunities in nutrition
- Requires master's degree from 2024
- Eligibility for registration exam
- Comprehensive nutrition education
- Master's - Clinical Nutrition, M.S.
Campus Based - Website
- 36-40 credit curriculum
- 1000 hours supervised practice
- ACEND accredited
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Prepares for CDR exam
- Covers medical nutrition therapy
- Includes community nutrition
- Research opportunities
Knoxville, TN
Pellissippi State Community College
- Associate - Nutrition and Food Science
Campus Based - Website
- Associate of Science degree.
- Seamless transfer to TN universities.
- Focus on nutrition and food science.
- Includes human anatomy and physiology.
- General education core courses.
- Prepares for bachelor's degree programs.
- Financial aid options available.
- High school diploma required.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Biomedical Nutrition Science - Campus Based - Website
- Focus on nutrition and disease.
- Cellular and molecular techniques.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- Collaborations with experts.
- Emphasis on metabolic pathways.
- Gene-nutrient interactions study.
- Microbiome's role in health.
- Opportunities for publishing.
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Concentration: Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEND.
- Hybrid program format.
- Accelerated 5-year BS/MS.
- 2-year option for externals.
- Hands-on clinical practicum.
- Interprofessional learning opportunities.
- Leadership development focus.
- Research literacy training.
Memphis, TN
Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Associate - Dietetic Technician
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEND
- Prepares for DTR exam
- Minimum GPA 2.0 required
- Prerequisite courses needed
- Hands-on experience
- Various employment settings
- Clinical and management focus
- Physical exam required
University of Memphis
- Master's - MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month intensive program
- ACEND-accredited
- 42 credit hours
- 1200+ supervised practice hours
- Focus on adult clinical nutrition
- Elective tracks available
- Includes applied project
- Eligible for RDN exam
- Master's - MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program
Concentration: Pediatrics - Campus Based - Website
- 16-month intensive program.
- ACEND-accredited.
- Pediatrics concentration available.
- 42 credit hours required.
- Combines coursework and supervised practice.
- Optional paid nutrition experiences.
- 40-hour weekly rotations.
- Eligible for RDN exam post-graduation.
- Master's - MS Nutrition/Dietetic Internship and Residency Program
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Campus Based - Website
- ACEND-accredited program
- 16-month intensive curriculum
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- Over 1200 supervised practice hours
- Prepares for RDN credentialing exam
- Meets Tennessee licensure requirements
- Combines coursework with practical experience
- Focus on adult clinical and sports nutrition
Murfreesboro, TN
Middle Tennessee State University
- Bachelor's - Nutrition and Food Science, Nutrition and Wellness
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Focuses on nutrition and wellness.
- Prepares for diverse careers.
- Competitive tuition costs.
- Financial aid available.
- Master's - Professional Studies
Concentration: Leadership in Nutrition - Online Learning - Website
- 30-hour program
- 100% online
- No GRE required
- Flexible schedule
- Meets dietetic registration mandate
- Leadership and nutrition focus
- Entrepreneurial skills course
- Conflict management included
Nashville, TN
Lipscomb University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Health Promotion and Wellness - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Health Promotion concentration
- Five-semester duration
- 1,000+ experiential hours
- ACEND accredited
- Flexible online and on-campus
- DPD GPA 3.0 requirement
- Excellent recommendations needed
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Medical Nutrition Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Accredited by ACEND
- 1,000+ experiential hours
- Five-semester program
- Year 1 online or on-campus
- Year 2 on-campus
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- GRE optional
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship
Concentration: Sports Nutrition - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Sports Nutrition concentration
- 1,000+ experiential hours
- Accredited by ACEND
- Flexible for professionals
- GRE optional
- $1,065 per credit hour
- Financial aid available
- Master's - Master of Science in Nutrition
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Flexible online or on-campus study
- Accredited by ACEND
- Prepares for RD credentialing exam
- Emphasizes practical experience
- Focuses on community service
- Adheres to professional ethics
- Comprehensive curriculum
- For aspiring and current dietitians
Nashville State Community College
- Associate - Nutrition & Food Science
Online Learning - Website
- Two-year program
- Online format
- $9,490 total cost
- Guaranteed transfer courses
- Prepares for bachelor's degree
- Tennessee Transfer Pathways
- Accessible admissions
- Focus on nutrition and food science