Earning a master's in nutrition online can qualify graduates for careers in industries including policy making, fitness, healthcare, and public health. Most programs reflect the diversity of graduates' career options by offering specializations in specific industries or categories. For example, a student interested in helping athletes may specialize in sports nutrition.
Nutrition students should value fitness and healthy eating, and they should be passionate about helping others pursue these ideals. Learners study these concepts at the molecular level in the context of all life stages. Graduates often pursue careers as dieticians, health educators, and community health workers.
While earning an online master's in nutrition, students gain technology skills applicable to roles in the nutrition field. For example, nutritionists may create pamphlets with health tips for clients. The best online nutrition master's degree programs help learners develop computer skills to better serve future clients.
Salaries for graduates of the top online nutrition master's programs vary by location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for U.S. dietitians and nutritionists is more than $60,000 per year. However, professionals in some states, such as California, earn higher average salaries.
When choosing a career and location, professionals should consider each state's employment figures. California's high pay, combined with the state's employment of nearly 8,000 workers in the field, indicates high professional potential. However, Alaska holds low employment numbers in spite of the high salaries professionals in the state earn, which could make finding a job more difficult for graduates.
Experience level also impacts a nutritionist's earning potential. Over the course of their career, nutritionists increase their salary by an average of $17,000. After entering the field with an accredited online nutrition master's degree, professionals can expect to earn higher salaries as they gain experience.
State | Employment | Annual Mean Wage |
---|---|---|
California | 7,950 | $72,130 |
Alaska | 150 | $68,310 |
Oregon | 710 | $67,820 |
New Jersey | 1,880 | $67,800 |
Connecticut | 850 | $67,270 |
United States | 62,980 | $60,150 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Source: PayScale
Earning a master's in nutrition online can prepare students for a variety of careers. Those who enjoy providing individual guidance may become nutritionists, while those who prefer assisting groups may fill roles as community health workers or postsecondary educators. Learners should consider their career goals before pursuing a master's degree in nutrition online to ensure the degree fits their intended profession.
Annual Median Salary: $59,410
Projected Growth Rate: 15%
These workers offer guidance based on clients' nutritional needs. These professionals often prepare eating plans and adjust those plans based on each client's progress. They may also discuss nutrition in public forums, construct instructional field materials, and research nutrition concepts. Certifications, such as the Certified Nutritionist Specialist credential, often require a master's degree and can lead to career advancement.
Annual Median Salary: $45,360
Projected Growth Rate: 16%
Health educators and community health workers examine the health needs of groups. They may plan events that address community health problems or promote healthy habits, such as cancer screenings. Candidates may oversee employees, connect clients to health services, and support policies related to community wellness. Some employers require these professionals to hold a master's degree.
Annual Median Salary: $97,870
Projected Growth Rate: 26%
These educators prepare lesson plans, deliver lectures, and grade assignments. They may help develop school curricula and advise learners on class scheduling. Postsecondary teachers must typically hold at least a master's degree in the field they teach. Many institutions hire teachers with an online master's in nutrition.
Annual Median Salary: $84,207
Projected Growth Rate: N/A
These professionals oversee academic departments by conferring with administrators and guiding faculty. Department chairs may also teach classes, alter curricula, address the department's financial needs, write articles, and participate in the hiring process. Colleges and universities typically require candidates for these positions to hold at least a master's degree.
Program details for an accredited online master's in nutrition vary by school and concentration. Concentrations such as fitness or health education prepare learners for careers in related areas. However, nutrition students typically take the following classes, regardless of concentration.
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