Top Universities for MS Nutrition: Eligibility, Application Cycle & Prospects

Updated on 05 May, 2023

Bulbul Sharma

Bulbul Sharma

Manager- Content @upGrad

Studying various foods, the nutrients in them, and how they act as a fuel for the body and others are some basics that a student enrolled in a  nutrition course learns. With a combination of molecular biology, chemistry, and DNA, the nutrition for the body is decided. They decide which food is assimilated well by the body. Moreover, owing to the lifestyle there is a surge in diseases. Therefore, keeping a check on the food that we eat is significant and falls under the study of nutrition. Completing a master’s in Nutrition credits the student with the knowledge of a balanced diet. Intake of all nutrients as needed by the body further explains what nutrition is. The top universities for MS in Nutrition combine many other factors with nutrition that enables a healthy body and a disease-free life. 

Eligibility for MS Nutrition

Students applying for a Master’s in Nutrition must have obtained a bachelor’s degree in the following disciplines along with 50% marks in BS from a recognized university: 

Specializations in MS Nutrition

Top Universities for MS in Nutrition include many subjects, but fundamentally, it revolves around food. Since we are what we intake, thus, diet is a wonderful measure to reduce obesity, and other subsequent issues stemming from it. With different subjects and reach, the specializations in nutrition open doors to different subjects and issues. These specializations are: 

  • Sports Nutrition
  • Clinical and Community Nutrition
  • Biochemical and molecular nutrition
  • Nutrition in Health and Disease
  • Food Science and Innovation and
  • Public Health Nutrition

Job Prospects after MS in Nutrition

As the demand for good health and lifestyle increases, the need for professionals also elevate. Listed below are some of the employment opportunities that one can explore:

  • Nutritionist
  • Public Health Advocate
  • Wellness Consultant
  • Dietitian
  • Medical Technologist
  • Nutrition Writer
  • Food Technologist
  • Food Scientist
  • Regulatory Affairs Manager
  • Clinical Trial Administrator 

Top Universities for MS in Nutrition

Top Universities for MS Nutrition can be recognized from their ranking, employment opportunities, and infrastructure, apart from a comprehensive curriculum.  With health and lifestyle awareness gaining momentum, the universities have also advanced the facilities, research, labs, and libraries for the Masters in Nutrition. We have summarized the list of top universities for the program here: 

The United States

The US and its colleges excel in providing quality education in MS nutrition and dietetics. Even with the high cost of studies, ranging between $ 15,000- $30,000, it is a preferred destination for many students and professionals who intend to learn perpetually. The cost of living in the country as a student will vary between USD 10,000 to 18,000 yearly. 

Also, the famous alumni from the colleges have been inspiring others in the field of Nutrition. Jessica Ivey – Birmingham, Alabama (University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill)- Women Entrepreneur is one such alumnus. 

College Name  Department Ranking by US News Tuition Fee
Harvard University #10 $ 66,960 (Annual)
University of Illinois Urbana Champaign #47 $ 31,464 (Annual)
Ohio State University #48 $ 2,403 (Per Credit Unit)
Cornell University # 17 $ 20, 800 (Annual)
The University of North Carolina # 79 $ 37,345 (Annual)

 Intake

Three intakes for the MS course are available for admission. However, this may vary with the University/College.

  • Spring: Begins in January and deadlines vary with the university. 
  • Summer: May; however it is available for only a few programs. 
  • Fall: August and September

Application Process

Documents needed are:

  • All Transcripts ( 10th, 12th, UG, Diploma)
  • Personal Statement
  • Certificate of Graduation
  • Certificate validating your English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE)
  • Resume 
  • Reference Letters         

The United Kingdom

Public Health is one of the primary concerns of the people of the UK, and more professionals are expected in the field. It is a chosen destination for International students too with living expenses ranging between £1,265 to £ 1,500 a month. 

Notable alumni whose theories we are still studying come from the UK

  • Sir Frederick Gowland Hopkins- Awarded a Nobel Prize for the discovery of vitamins-King’s College
  • John Yudkin – the first professor of Nutrition in Britain-King’s College
College Name  QS Global Ranking Tuition Fee
University of Edinburgh # 15 £32,300 (Annual)
University of Glasgow # 81 £27, 050 (Annual)
University of Worcester #40 £17,900 (Annual)
King’s College # 37 £ 29,310 (Annual)
University of Copenhagen #63 EUR 7,390 (Per Semester)

 Intake: 

There are three intakes to apply for an MS course in the UK.

  • Fall Intake: September/October
  • Winter Intake: January-February
  • Spring/Summer Intake: May

Application Process:  

Documents needed are:

  • All Transcripts ( 10th, 12th, UG, Diploma)
  • Personal Statement
  • Certificate of Graduation
  • Certificate validating your English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS)
  • Resume 
  • Reference Letters         

Canada

Canada with its beautiful landscape is also one of the important study abroad destinations for Masters in Nutrition. The living expenses for students here range from CAD 17, 000 to CAD 25,000. Let’s look at the top universities for MS Nutrition.  

Some notable Alumni from the top Canadian universities are listed below:

College Name 

Subject Ranking

 US NEWS

Tuition Fee  
University of McGill # 61 CAD 9,330 (Per 15 credits)  
University of Guelph # 20 CAD 2,496.69 (Per Semester)  
University of British Columbia # 31 CAD 9313.92 (Annual)  
University of Alberta # 49 CAD 8700.07 (Annual)  
University of Manitoba # 86 CAD 6,323.74 (Per Term)  

 Intake: 

With three intakes at the universities in Canada,  it is best to apply early 

Winter Term: January-April

Spring Term: May-August 

Fall Term: September-December

Application Process: 

Admission requirements for Canadian University are as follows:

  • Three academic references
  • TOEFL (score of 90)
  • IELTS (minimum band 7)

Australia

It is no surprise that Australia has ample opportunities in the field of nutrition. Besides, the top universities for MS Nutrition, there are also wonderful employment opportunities there. The cost of attendance anywhere in Australia lies between AUD 1,300-AUD 2,500 per month. 

Alumni from the below-mentioned colleges will motivate you.

  • Chloe Swiney – Dietitian, Yakult Australia-University of Monash
  • Edward Lun – Clinical Dietitian at Central Coast LHD-University of Sydney
  • Sean Hoang –  QA Officer Tismor Health & Wellness Pty Limited-Curtin University
College Name  QS Subject Ranking Tuition Fee
The University of Queensland # 86 AUD 13,180 (Per Semester)
University of Canberra # 101-#130 AUD 42, 200 (Annual)
Curtin University # 193 AUD 37, 400 (Annual)
Monash University # 42 AUD 42, 300 (Two years)
University of Sydney # 41 AUD 52,500 (Annual)

Intake: 

With most universities having flexible intake, it is best to apply during September. The MS course in Australia is maximum for 24 months and a minimum of 18 months. 

Application process: 

The documents needed are:

  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Medical Insurance
  • All transcripts
  • Proof of Funds
  • Internships
  • Work experience (if any)
  • English Proficiency test scorecard (TOEFL, GRE)

Europe

Europe is coming up as a leader in education, especially in medical sciences and life sciences. It is a choice of many, as the quality of education is good. The living expense for an international student lies anywhere between €850 to € 2,076, monthly.   

College Name  QS Subject Ranking Tuition Fee
University of Helsinki #58 15, 000 EUR (annually)
Universidad de Alicante/ University of Alicante # 451-500 68 € (4 academic Credits)
Heidelberg University/Ruperto Carola #63  EUR 1,500 (Per Semester)
Fundación Universitaria Iberoamericana (FUNIBER) # 374 USD 10,500

Intake:   

The fall intake for universities in Europe will end by 15th August 2022. It’s best to apply six months before the course begins. 

Application Process: 

For studying in Europe, universities have various language mediums in which they teach. However, if you prefer English as the teaching medium, it is important to have an International Certificate in English at the B2 level. Other than that you need the following:

  • All previous certificates, including 10th, and 12th mark sheets
  • Entrance test scorecard
  • Previous work experience letter
  • Internship letter
  • Letter of motivation
  • Bachelor’s degree Diploma/Diploma in Health or Social Sciences
  • Additional Research work/Publications
  • Resume
  • TOEFL Score
  • IELTS Score

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not want to work as a Dietitian after my Masters in Nutrition?

There are multiple job opportunities, apart from being a dietitian after completing MS in Nutrition. You may specialize in Eating disorders, sports, clinical nutrition, and others  allowing you to explore the depth of the course. 


 

Is the MS program in Nutrition the most expensive?

No, it is not the most expensive program. However, the expense will largely depend upon the specialization, the country, and the college/university you opt for. 


 

Do I have to practice yoga for pursuing MS in Nutrition?

No, you don’t have to practice any physical exercise, as this is a course related to food and science and how it is assimilated into your body. 


 

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Bulbul Sharma

Manager- Content @upGrad

Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!

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