Nutrition Master’s Programs

An Interdepartmental Program Designed With You in Mind

We offer an M.S. (thesis) and a Master of Nutrition (non-thesis) degree option. Students can complete both the thesis and non-thesis program in 1.5-2 years if enrolled full-time. Some nutrition courses are available through distance education, and the non-thesis degree program can be completed 100% online.

NC State’s interdepartmental graduate nutrition program is comprised of faculty and staff from various departments, including: 

• Agricultural and Human Sciences
• Animal Science
• Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences
• Horticultural Science
• Molecular and Structural Biochemistry
• Prestage Department of Poultry Science
• University Catalog Complete List of Nutrition Faculty

You may complete thesis work with faculty in any one of these departments. 

Our degree pathways do not lead directly to dietetic internships or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist certifications.

Master of Nutrition

Our non-thesis option is suitable for those who seek a career in community and public health nutrition, health and wellness promotion, and food and pharmaceutical manufacturing with an emphasis on nutritional health products. 

Many students continue their education to receive additional degrees and certifications in allied health fields. Others may explore this avenue to advance their career to complement prior health and nutrition licenses.

Students choose an emphasis from one of the following:

• Feed Science: A focus on animal nutrition and uniting the demand for meat and efficient uses of agricultural byproducts.
• Human Nutrition: Preparation for other health careers and jobs in industry, government, and non-profit organizations.
• Professional Science Master of Nutrition – Feed Science: A combination of nutrition and business with an emphasis on field experience and the opportunity to work in a feed mill, laboratory, or complete a project in an industry, government, or non-profit organization. Projects can be completed for your current employer or future internships.
• Professional Science Master of Nutrition – Human Nutrition: Broad knowledge of nutrition science, related fields, and management to effectively communicate scientific information in various career fields.

How to Apply

Submit your application to The Graduate School, including your desired format (traditional or distance education) and preferred emphasis.

Master of Science in Nutrition

Our thesis option is suitable for those who are interested in gaining research experience. Post-graduate opportunities can range from technical research positions to pursuing a Ph.D. in nutrition.

How to Apply

1. We recommend that you contact faculty members whose research is of interest to you. Specify why you would be a good fit for their program and include your resume and transcripts.
2. Submit your application to The Graduate School, including your statement of purpose, specific research interests, and the desired faculty collaborations.

Admission to the program is limited by faculty time commitments and financial resources. Once accepted to the program, you and your established faculty mentor will select first-semester courses. Course requirements will vary by student and research plan.

Admission Requirements

Candidates for both programs must have a:

• 4-year bachelor’s degree, including coursework in biology and organic chemistry
• 3.0 GPA or higher
• TOEFL score of 80 or higher or IELTS of 6.5 or higher (for international students only)

Students who do not meet these requirements should contact Dr. Suzie Goodell, Director of the Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutrition