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MS in Nutrition Education Be the Voice That Promotes Better Nutrition

Program Length: 22-24 Months
Credit Hours: 30
Total Courses: 10
Cost per Credit: $1,300
Speak with a Program Advisor

What are the program start dates?

Fall 2025
Late August

Spring 2026
Early January

Summer 2026
Early May

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Start Your MS in Nutrition Education at American University

Take your passion for nutrition to the next level with American University’s MS in Nutrition Education. Our program blends scientific knowledge with practical application, preparing you to lead in the field of nutrition. Through our flexible learning model, you’ll gain: 

  • Expert-Led Learning: Learn from top faculty in nutrition science, behaviour change, and communication.
  • Best in Class Education: Develop effective methods for promoting nutrition awareness and behavioral change.
  • Flexible Study Options: Balance your work and studies with a fully online, part-time, or full-time format.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and experts in the field of health and nutrition education.

Learn Without Limits

AU Online

Student

Hear from our students

Meet Senita Beverly – MS Student in Nutrition Education

In this video, Senita Beverly shares her journey and passion for nutrition education. As a dedicated AU Master's student, she discusses what inspired her to pursue this field, the impact of nutrition on community health, and how she hopes to empower others with knowledge that leads to healthier lives.

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Admission Requirements
Program Curriculum
Careers and Guidance
Tuition Fees
Faculty

American University’s online MS in Nutrition Education equips professionals with the expertise to navigate the field of health and wellness. 

To be considered for one of our programs, you must have a USA Bachelor’s Degree or an internationally recognized equivalent, with a preferred GPA of 3.0 or above.  

All applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and we will also consider applicants with a lower GPA. Professional experience is recognized in lieu of academic qualifications, and those with at least two years of relevant experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Please note that some of our programs may have specific prerequisites that are required for entry onto the program.

Required for your application:

  • Personal identification document, e.g. passport or other identification.  
  • Official Degree Certificate and Transcript as evidence of a minimum of a USA Bachelor’s Degree or a recognized international equivalent.  
  • A personal statement (300-500 words) about why you want to study this program. 
  • Proof of English (POE) language proficiency where applicable.  
  • A Resume/CV and/or LinkedIn profile may be required for borderline applicants.  

The entry qualification documents are accepted in English only. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your School or University. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

Review the possible paths to satisfy the Proof of English (POE) language proficiency requirements.

This program allows you to complete 10 courses over four semesters + two summer terms semesters, earning your degree in less than two years while balancing your career and personal commitments.

A Career-Focused Curriculum
Coursework is designed to build both academic knowledge and real-world skills, helping you develop expertise in public health nutrition, behavior change strategies, and policy advocacy. Through interactive projects, role-playing, and case studies, you’ll gain hands-on experience in nutrition education.

Specialized Courses Include:

  • Nutrition Education and Communication Strategies – Learn how to effectively educate diverse populations.
  • Health Promotion and Disease Prevention – Explore strategies to prevent chronic diseases through nutrition.
  • Lifespan Nutrition – Understand nutritional needs from infancy to aging adulthood.
  • Health Behavior Change- Understand the foundations of health behavior change and apply techniques to support lifestyle improvements in areas such as smoking cessation, weight management, stress reduction, and healthy eating.

To receive more detailed descriptions for all courses in the program, speak with a Program Advisor.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Strategic Nutrition Program Development – Design and implement effective nutrition education initiatives.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making – Utilize research and evidence-based strategies to inform interventions.
  • Behavior Change Communication – Develop persuasive messaging to promote healthier lifestyles.

With a flexible, engaging online format, this program allows you to apply your learning immediately and advance your career in health organizations, government agencies, schools, and nonprofits.

Graduates of the program excel in roles such as:

  • Health Educators – Develop and implement community nutrition programs.
  • Public Health Nutritionists – Advise communities and policymakers on nutrition policies.
  • Corporate Wellness Consultants – Design nutrition-focused employee wellness programs.
  • Nonprofit Program Coordinators – Lead nutrition initiatives for social impact.
  • Policy Advocates – Influence food and nutrition policies at local and national levels.

As dietary trends, food accessibility, and health policies evolve, the analytical and communication skills gained in this program will ensure you stay ahead in the field of nutrition education.

At American University, tuition for a 10-course (30-credit) program is $38,950, with a per-credit rate of $1,300. Scholarships, if awarded, are applied on top of the total tuition and distributed throughout the duration of the degree.

Payment Options

  • Tuition can be paid in full upfront or by semester, based on registered courses.
  • Tuition bills are due each semester—monthly or quarterly payment plans are not available.

For more details on tuition and financial aid options, schedule a call.

For Academic Year 2025–2026, there is a $165 per semester fee for technology and support services. Fees are subject to annual adjustments by the university

American University's Online Master's in Nutrition Education is led by a dedicated group of experts with diverse academic backgrounds and practical experience in nutrition science, education, and public health. The faculty members bring a blend of research expertise and professional experience to ensure that students are well-prepared for impactful careers in nutrition.

Read more about our faculty.

Career Support for Lifelong Success

American University’s Career Center provides comprehensive job search support, career advising, internships, and scholarship opportunities—available to both current students and alumni worldwide. With access to AU Career Center, an exclusive job-search platform, you can connect with recruiters and employers looking for top nutrition professionals.

Alumni Making an Impact

Our graduates are shaping the future of public health and nutrition at organizations such as:

  • U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
  • Corporate wellness and healthcare organizations
  • Nonprofits focused on public health and food security

We Know Success

% of Graduates are now Working, Grad School, or Both

The program emphasizes both the science of nutrition and the educational strategies necessary to promote behavior change at individual, community, and population levels.

Yes, your degree from American University is recognized and respected both nationally and internationally. American University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), one of the six regional accrediting organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that your degree meets rigorous academic standards and reflects a high-quality education consistent with those offered by top-tier universities across the country.

The program is designed to be completed in 22–24 months, encompassing four semesters and two summer sessions.

Yes, your degree from American University is fully accredited and widely recognized by employers both across the United States and internationally. Online degrees from reputable institutions like American University carry the same academic weight and credibility as traditional on-campus degrees. Employers value the skills and knowledge you gain through a rigorous online program, especially as remote learning and digital collaboration have become integral parts of the modern workforce. Graduates of American University's online programs have gone on to succeed in a wide range of professional fields

American University's online programs are designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals, parents, and other busy individuals. While each course follows a structured schedule with set deadlines for assignments and exams, you have the flexibility to access lectures, complete readings, and work on assignments at times that suit your personal schedule. This means you can balance your studies with other life responsibilities, progressing through the program at a manageable pace. Support from faculty, advisors, and tech resources is also available to help you stay on track and make the most of your learning experience.

Yes, absolutely. As an online student at American University, you are encouraged to actively engage with faculty and take full advantage of the academic support services available to you. Faculty members hold regular virtual office hours, where you can meet one-on-one via video chat to ask questions, discuss course material, or seek guidance on assignments. You can also communicate with professors through email and participate in interactive online discussion forums that foster collaboration and dialogue among students and instructors.

International applicants are required to have one of the following English Language qualifications to be for considered for direct admission to any of our graduate programs:   

  • A TOEFL minimum score of 100   

  • IELTS minimum score of 7   

  • Duolingo minimum score of 120   

  • Or an approved equivalent  

*The university accepts many international qualifications in place of IELTS.   

A Proof of English Language Proficiency (POE) exemption may be offered to applicants who meet one of the following criteria:   

  • Completed at least 3 years of high school in an English-speaking country.   

  • Completed an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in English.   

  • Completed a higher educational or professional qualification in English.   

  • Working in an English-speaking environment and demonstrably working in English.  

The Technology and Support Services Fee at American University covers a broad spectrum of essential services and programs designed to enhance the overall student experience. As a mandatory fee, it is strategically structured to ensure that students have continuous access to critical resources that support their academic, personal, and professional development throughout their time at the university. This fee funds a diverse range of offerings, including career services, wellness programs, academic support, counseling, and much more. While the specific services may evolve over time, the fee remains a fundamental pillar of student life, providing a comprehensive and reliable support system that fosters student success and well-being.