What are the admissions requirements for the online Master of Science in Nutrition Education?
You will need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. A 3.0 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate work is recommended.
Can I transfer credit for previous graduate work?
We may accept up to six hours of graduate work from another institution that applies directly to the degree.
Is there provisional admission?
Students with a weak academic background may be admitted with provisional status. Students who are admitted provisionally must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 after the completion of the first nine credit hours of graduate study at American University or they will be academically dismissed.
What are the admission requirements for International students?
A TOEFL score of 600 (or 100 on the Internet-based test), a minimum score of 68 on the Pearson Test of English, or a minimum IELTS score of seven (7) is required. Additionally, applicants with international transcripts must have them evaluated course-by-course. For a list of acceptable evaluators, go to NACES.org.
How long does it take to complete the degree?
The Master of Science in Nutrition Education can be completed in as little as 20 months.
Do you require submission of test scores?
No, GRE test is not required.
What documents are required when applying?
The required application documents include:
- A completed graduate application
- A $55 application Fee
- Phone Interview with Admissions Advisor
- Résumé
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation, which may be from former professors as well as current or former employers
- Transcripts from all previous undergraduate and graduate coursework (If a degree was earned outside the U.S., a course-by-course evaluated transcript is required.)
When is the deadline for application?
Our application deadline will change depending on which term you are applying for. Please contact our online admissions staff for a specific timeline your application file needs to be fully submitted.
Is financial aid available?
Graduate students enrolled at least part time in a Master's program may be eligible for federal loans. To apply, students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Where do alumni of the MS in Nutrition Education program find employment?
Graduates with a MS in Nutrition Education have the credentials needed work in a variety of fields including public health, nonprofits, schools, government, health clubs, and food companies. Learn more about our graduates’ success and their testimonials about the nutrition education program.
What type of career assistance is available in the program?
Faculty, students and alumni in the online Master’s in Nutrition Education are dedicated to helping you reach your career goals. Resources available to you include a dedicated faculty mentor to provide career assistance, networking events, industry webinars, social media groups and access to American University’s career center.
Will I be able to take advantage of the same resources as on-campus students do?
Yes, online students are encouraged to obtain a Student ID and take advantage of all of the same resources as our on-campus students.
How is this program different from others?
The American University MS in Nutrition Education program is unique in ensuring that its graduates have the nutrition science coupled with behavior change theories. This approach is necessary for the implementation of innovative healthy eating campaigns and programs in the community that lead to healthy consumers. Ultimately, graduates will have sound nutrition knowledge and will be successful educators at the individual, organizational and societal levels.
Does this program prepare me to be a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS)?
This program provides a stepping stone to the Certified Nutrition Specialist® ™ credential. Additional coursework in clinical nutrition, bio/life sciences, and biochemistry, beyond what is included in this program, as well as supervised practice experience, are necessary for CNS® eligibility.
Does this program prepare me to be a registered dietitian?
No, this does not prepare you to be a registered dietitian. However, there are currently registered dietitians in this program for professional development and career advancement.
In order to become a registered dietitian, do I need to have a Master’s degree?
Effective January 1, 2024 the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics will require all registered dietitian candidates to have a master’s degree.
Are there scholarships available for the program?
American University is pleased to offer the Online Merit Scholarship to students who demonstrate undergraduate excellence and continue on to graduate studies. Scholarships are available to students who meet the eligibility requirements.
Is there a certificate option?
Yes. The 18-credit Graduate Certificate in Nutrition Education includes six online courses and can be completed in one year. The curriculum includes coursework in lifecycle nutrition, vitamins and minerals, nutrition education methods, and more. If you choose to pursue the graduate certificate, and decide to apply to the MS in Nutrition Education program in the future, you may be able to share some of the credits.
Students who decide to pursue the master's program before they've completed 12 credits of certificate coursework can transfer all certificate credits toward their MS degree. Those who decide to pursue the MSNE after completing 12 credits or more of certificate coursework can transfer six credits. Contact an admissions adviser for complete details.
What if I decide I want to pursue the MSNE program after I've completed 12 or more credits in the certificate program?
You can still pursue the MSNE after completing 12 or more credits in the certificate program, but you will only be eligible to transfer six credits toward your graduate degree.
Click here to learn more about the online Master of Science in Nutrition Education or call 855-725-7614 to speak with an admissions adviser today.
