Published October 2018

Welcome to our ranking of 2018's most affordable bachelor's in dietetics for students planning a career as a registered dietician.

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook for 2016-2017, employment of dietitians and nutritionists is projected to grow 14 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. The role of food helping prevent and treat diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, is now well known. More dietitians and nutritionists will be needed to provide care for patients with various medical conditions and to advise people who want to improve their overall health through diet and exercise.

Earning a bachelor's degree in dietetics is the first step toward becoming a Registered Dietician. Becoming a Registered Dietician is a process that includes completing an approved Didactic Dietetics program, a Didactic Internship, and passing the national exam to become an RD. Dietetics professionals work to educate the public or select groups of people on ways to prevent or manage health conditions using proven science. Leadership positions exist at long term care facilities, hospitals, health departments, and public health organizations. Dieticians are an essential part of care teams, administration, management, and leadership to ensure proper nutritional needs are being met.

Methodology

To find the best programs in dietetics, we looked at programs holding both regional accreditation and accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics which accredits programs for students seeking a career as a registered dietician or nutritionist. We then looked at the net average tuition rates for these schools in College Navigator to determine our list of the top 40 most affordable bachelor's in dietetics.

40. Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Bachelor's in Dietetics

Website

Average Net Price: $14,675
The College of Education and Human Services at Central Michigan University features an affordable bachelor's degree program in dietetics. It offers small class size and individual attention. Faculty provide students with the opportunity to work on research projects to gain experience. The Student Dietetic Association gives students the chance to network through meetings, trips and activities. Almost 70% of graduates are placed into post-baccalaureate internships within the first year of graduation. The average first time pass rate for Central Michigan graduates is 93%.

39. Oklahoma State University – Stillwater, Oklahoma

Bachelor's in Dietetics

Website

Average Net Price: $14,513
The Department of Nutritional Sciences at Oklahoma State University features a top affordable dietetics bachelor's degree program. Students will develop an understanding of human nutrition. They apply those principles to help create overall wellness through food intake and the personal choices of their clients. Students can complete their degree in four years of study. Courses are primarily offered at the Stillwater Campus. This ACEND accredited top dietetics bachelor's degree program provides students with multiple opportunities to become engaged in research.

38. California State University – Chico, California

Bachelor's of Science (BS) degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences

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Average Net Price: $14,185
The Department of Nutrition and Food Science at California State University Chico offers a Bachelor's in Nutrition and Food Sciences with concentration areas in:

-Dietetics

-Nutrition Management

-Food and Nutrition Communication

The General Dietetics concentration area is a 35 unit specialization with coursework in areas like:

-community nutrition

-nutrition counseling

human nutrition

-medical nutrition therapy.

37. Eastern Illinois University – Charleston, Illinois

Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD)

Website

Average Net Price: $14,107
The Dietetics bachelor's degree program at Eastern Illinois University is designed for students who want to use their knowledge in health and wellbeing to improve the lives of others. Students benefit from small class sizes and a hands-on curriculum designed for students who want to become a Registered Dietician Nutritionist. Faculty provide students with the opportunity to participate in research which they can present at conferences. A senior internship experience provides students with valuable hands-on industry experience.

36. University of Central Arkansas – Conway, Arkansas

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition-Didactic Program in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $14,005
The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Central Arkansas features a top affordable bachelor's in nutrition program. It prepares students for an internship in dietetics and other career advancement opportunities. Courses cover areas like:

-lifecycle nutrition

-food economics

-community nutrition

-sports nutrition.

Graduates are eligible for entry into a supervised practice program that makes them eligible to sit for the Registration Examination for dietitians.

35. University of Central Oklahoma – Edmond, Oklahoma

Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Management Program

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Average Net Price: $13,995
The University of Central Oklahoma features a Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Management bachelor's degree program. It prepares students for a variety of careers in food service management, hospital dietetics, and research. Courses include:

-life span nutrition

-food safety and sanitation

-medical nutrition therapy

-institutional food management.

34. Iowa State University – Ames, Iowa

Bachelor's in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $13,949
The top affordable bachelor's degree in dietetics program at Iowa State University is tailored to meet the needs of aspiring registered dietitians. Students apply to the program during their sophomore year by submitting an application and meeting the pre-requisites. Graduates are eligible to apply for a dietetics internship which is the next step in becoming a Registered Dietician.

33. Minnesota State University – Mankato, Minnesota

Bachelor's in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $13,704
Minnesota State University is dedicated to providing students with the guidance and expectations to be successful in the field of dietetics. The affordable Bachelor's in Dietetics program is ACEND accredited. The curriculum prepares students to enter a didactic internship. Students are encouraged to participate in the Student Dietetic and Nutrition Organization and other extra curricular activities on campus to enhance their resume and add to their skill set. Students are also encouraged to work part-time in a position related to dietetics to gain valuable hands-on experience.

32. Southern University and A&M College – Baton Rouge, Louisiana

B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $13,668
The Didactic Program in Dietetics program at Southern University and College is one of four concentration areas in the Division of Family and Consumer Sciences. This top affordable dietetics bachelor's program is designed to provide students with foundational knowledge needed to be successful in dietetics. Students who complete the program are well prepared to begin a dietetic internship leading to a career in nutrition and related areas.

31. University of Memphis – Memphis, Tennessee

Bachelor's in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $13,663
The School of Health Studies at The University of Memphis features a top affordable bachelor's in dietetics for students who want to influence nutritional health both domestically and abroad. Students are engaged in service-learning, research, and study abroad opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills. Students also have the chance to complete an internship experience in nutrition which looks favorable when applying for a didactic internship after graduation.

30. Texas State University – San Marcos, Texas

Bachelor's in Dietetics

Website

Average Net Price: $13,579
The Dietetics program at Texas State University is designed for students who want to advance their career by pursuing their Registered Dietician credential. Students do not need to select a minor with this major. In order to graduate with a Verification Statement, students need to maintain a GPA of at least 2.75 throughout the program. Texas State University does offer a highly competitive post-graduate Dietetic Internship with nine slots available each year for qualified graduates and master's students.

29. University of North Florida – Jacksonville, Florida

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $13,524
The Bachelor's in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of North Florida is a rigorous science based program accredited by the ACEND. Students will learn how to interpret nutritional research to make science driven recommendations for their clients. Courses cover areas like:

-nutrition and fitness

-nutrition therapy

-food, health and society.

28. San Diego State University – San Diego, California

BS in Foods & Nutrition-Didactic Program in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $13,363
The BS in Foods and Nutrition at San Diego State University includes a Didactic Program in Dietetics for students planning to pursue their Registered Dietician credential. Coursework in areas like food systems management, lifespan nutrition and experimental food science give students the foundation needed for a successful career in dietetics.

27. SUNY College at Plattsburgh – Plattsburgh, New York

Bachelor's in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $13,299
SUNY College at Plattsburgh features an innovative affordable bachelor's in dietetics that meets the accreditation requirements for nutrition professionals. It includes pre-medical coursework. Students can choose to minor in areas like personal training or food and farming to further their knowledge in wellness. Students can complete an elective internship or the Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway for students planning to earn their Registered Dietician credential.

26. Teas A&M University – Kingsville, Texas

Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Sciences-Human Nutrition

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Average Net Price: $13,017
The Bachelor's in Human Sciences with a concentration in Human Nutrition is a ACEND accredited didactic program in dietetics. Students gain the skills and knowledge needed to set a solid foundation in dietetics. They also develop leadership and professional skills that allow them to work effectively with others. Coursework covers areas like:

-advanced instruction in food service management

-advanced nutrition

-quantity food prep.

25. Eastern Kentucky University – Richmond, Kentucky

General Dietetics (B.S.)

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Average Net Price: $12,659
The Bachelor's Degree in General Dietetics program at Eastern Kentucky University prepares students for a dietetic internship to become Registered Dieticians. This 120 credit hour program can be completed in eight semesters of full-time study. It includes coursework in: community nutrition

-food service organization and management

-food hygiene

-institutional purchasing.

Students complete a field experience in quality food production to gain valuable hands-on training.

24. Idaho State University – Pocatello, Idaho

Bachelor of Science Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $12,637
Idaho State University features a bachelor's degree in Dietetics program with small size and extensive field experience. Students complete prerequisite courses and general education requirements. Students complete major courses during their junior and senior years. Most students can earn their degree in four years of full-time study. Graduates are prepared for success as an entry level dietician.

23. SUNY Buffalo State – Buffalo, New York

Didactic Program in Nutrition and Dietetics, B.S.

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Average Net Price: $12,594
The top affordable Nutrition and Dietetics Bachelor's degree program at SUNY Buffalo State is an ACEND accredited program available to both freshmen and transfer students. Coursework covers areas like:

-applied management in dietetics

-advanced nutrition

-research in nutrition.

Graduates are prepared to pursue a Didactic Internship experience after graduation to fulfill the next step toward earning their Registered Dietician credential.

22. University of Alaska – Anchorage, Alaska

Bachelor of Science, Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $12,543
The School of Allied Health at the University of Alaska Anchorage offers a top affordable bachelor's in dietetics program that prepares students for success in a Dietetic Internship. The 120 credit hour program features online coursework to accommodate students around the state. Students will be required to complete practicum experiences as part of their coursework which may be completed in their home community.

21. Indiana University – Bloomington, Indiana

B.S. in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $12,488
The School of Public Health at Indiana University features an affordable Bachelor of Science in Applied Health Science program with a major in Dietetics. Students take coursework in areas like:

-medical nutrition therapy

-food preparation

-menu planning

-management,

-IT.

IU offers students the opportunity to participate in the Dietetics and Nutrition Club which plans community nutrition programs. The Department of Allied Health Science has laboratories available to the dietetics and nutrition program for hands-on learning.

20. Utah State University – Logan, Utah

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences

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Average Net Price: $12,338
The Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science Degree program at Utah State University is a well-founded degree program focusing on the scientific and social aspects of food production and consumption. USU offers two dietetics programs including the Coordinated Program in Dietetics and the Didactic Program in Dietetics.

The Coordinated Program in Dietetics is highly competitive and includes a 1,200 clock hour internship experience. Graduates are eligible to take the national registration exam to become a Registered Dietician. The Didactic Program does not include the internship experience. Students seeking the RD credential will need to apply for an internship somewhere else.

19. Florida International University – Miami, Florida

Didactic Program in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $12,219
The Department of Dietetics and Nutrition at Florida International University features a highly interactive program. FIU has partnerships with over 30 different community partners, providing the opportunity to engage in important research initiatives. Graduates have found success working in:

-acute care

-home health care

-the military

-ambulatory care.

18. Metropolitan State University of Denver – Denver, Colorado

Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Human Nutrition – Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $12,175
The Department of Nutrition at Metropolitan State University of Denver is a diverse program that prepares students for traditional, non-traditional, and independent positions in dietetics. Students complete 68 credits in dietetics with coursework in:

-food safety

-nutrition education

-food fundamentals

-nutrition and weight management

-medical nutrition.

A pre-professional seminar in nutrition and dietetics serves as a senior experience.

17. Southeast Missouri State University – Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Didactic Program in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $12,165
The mission of the top affordable bachelor's in dietetics program at Southeast Missouri State University is to provide training and education through classroom and experiential learning. Students gain valuable hands-on experience through participation in health fairs, providing nutritional education to seniors, delivering Meals on Wheels and working side-by-side with registered dietitians.

16. Jacksonville State University – Jacksonville, Alabama

Bachelor of Science Degree in Family and Consumer Sciences-Didactic Program in Dietetics

Website

Average Net Price: $11,939
The affordable Dietetics bachelor's degree program at Jacksonville State University is an ideal choice for students planning a career as a Registered Dietician. Students will benefit from instruction by experienced faculty to increase their nutritional knowledge, critical thinking skills, and ethical awareness. Graduates are prepared to enter into an internship experience or another post-graduate program related to nutrition and wellness.

15. Arizona State University – Scottsdale, Arizona

BS in Nutrition with a concentration in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $11,916
The Bachelor's in Nutrition with a focus on dietetics is a well-rounded program with coursework in science, management, and communication. Students learn a variety of nutrition applications to the community, food production efforts, and wellness. Graduates are prepared to apply to a Didactic Internship or go on to work in:

-school food service

-education

-consulting

-nutrition and health promotion.

14. Middle Tennessee State University – Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $11,916
The College of Behavioral and Health Sciences at Middle Tennessee State University features an innovative program in nutrition and food science. Students can choose a major in Nutrition and Food Science or a concentration in Dietetics which is the first step toward earning a Registered Dietician credential. The dietetics concentration includes coursework in areas like:

-nutrition in aging

-sports nutrition

-maternal and child nutrition

-community nutrition.

13. Nicholls State University – Thibodaux, Louisiana

Bachelor's in Dietetics

Website

Average Net Price: $11,896
The Department of Allied Health Sciences at Nicholls State University features a dietetics program for students exploring the connection between diet and overall health. This top affordable bachelor's in dietetics is the only accredited program of its kind in southeastern Louisiana. Graduates are prepared for post-graduate programs or a dietetic internship to continue their education in the field.

12. Western Kentucky University – Bowling Green, Kentucky

Nutrition and Dietetics Bachelor's Degree Program

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Average Net Price: $11,817
The Hospitality Management and Dietetics program at Western Kentucky University is a didactic dietetics program with coursework in:

-biochemistry

-community nutrition

-life stage nutrition

-nutrition assessment.

WKU also offers the Dietetic Internship as a post-graduate program that leads to a Graduate Certificate in Dietetic Practice. Faculty are experienced instructors and practitioners who share their knowledge and expertise.

11. Sam Houston State University – Huntsville, Texas

Didactic Program in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $11,742
Sam Houston State University features a Didactic Program in Dietetics designed for students planning a career as a Registered Dietician. Courses are offered in a variety of areas including:

-foodservice systems management

-psychology

-statistics

-science.

Students gain leadership skills and develop an understanding of what it takes to be a valued member of a health care team. Most students pursue their RDN credential and apply for a supervised practice in dietetics.

10. Stephen F. Austin State University – Nacogdoches, Texas

Dietetics and Nutritional Science Bachelor's Degree Program

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Average Net Price: $11,650
Stephen F. Austin State University recognizes the important role nutrition plays in overall health and wellness. Students can choose to complete the Registered Dietician Focus which is the path needed to become a Registered Dietician. They can also choose the pre-professional focus which is designed for students planning to go to a health professional school or program.

9. University of Nevada – Las Vegas, Nevada

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Sciences

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Average Net Price: $11,582
The Kinesiology and Nutrition Sciences features a nutritional sciences program using an evidence based approach to dietetics. Students benefit from lecture style courses, labs, and field experiences with supervision by experienced dieticians. Students are encouraged to find part-time or summer employment in the field and volunteer to gain hands-on experience. Courses are available in:

lifestyle nutrition

-nutrition assessment

-nutritional pathophysiology

-community nutrition.

8. Murray State University – Murray, Kentucky

Nutrition, Dietetics, & Food Management Program

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Average Net Price: $11,562
Murray State University offers several different programs for students with a passion for nutrition and wellness. The Dietetics track prepares students to become Registered Dietitians by earning a degree in dietetics. The Nutrition and Food Track is designed for students who want a foundation in nutrition but are not seeking RD certification. Finally, the Dietetic Internship Program is a graduate level program that fulfills the 1,200 hour supervised practice requirement to sit for the RD certification exam.

7. Lamar University – Beaumont, Texas

Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Bachelor's Degree – Dietetics Track

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Average Net Price: $11,485
The Dietetics track of the Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Bachelor's Degree program at Lamar University is an on-campus program accredited by ACEND. Students complete coursework in a variety of areas including::

-nutritional biochemistry

-food service management

-general nutrition.

Graduates are eligible to apply for a Didactic Internship or pursue a career in nutrition working with sport nutrition programs, private practitioners, and hospitals.

6. Youngstown State University – Youngstown, Ohio

Bachelor of Science in Applied Science in Food and Nutrition Coordinated Program in Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $10,637
Youngstown State University offers one of the few Coordinated Programs in Dietetics to make our list. This top affordable bachelor's in dietetics is focused on community wellness and prepares students to sit for the Registered Dietician exam. The program is limited to 12 students and is open to those with junior status. Students complete coursework over the course of four semesters and the 1,200 hour internship experience during the fifth semester.

5. McNeese State University – Lake Charles, Louisiana

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences with a concentration in Nutrition and Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $10,545
McNeese State University features a top affordable bachelor's in nutrition and dietetics. It's accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Students can earn their degree in four years of full-time study. The program typically has about 30 students. Students have the opportunity to continue their education by completing the combined program of Dietetic Internship and Master's in Health and Human Performance with a concentration in Nutrition and Wellness.

4. Tennessee State University – Nashville, Tennessee

Food and Nutritional Sciences (Dietetics)

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Average Net Price: $10,325
Students planning to be a Nutrition Educator or Dietitian will benefit from the Bachelor's in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Food and Nutritional Sciences from Tennessee State University. Students gain valuable hands on experience which prepares them for the workforce and a didactic internship. The program places strong emphasis on community and providing nutritional services to those with limited resources. Graduates have found success working in research, as educators, or working with at risk women.

3. Northeastern State University – Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Bachelor's in Nutritional Sciences

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Average Net Price: $8,833
The affordable bachelor's in Nutritional Sciences program at Northeastern State University features a Dietetics option and an Allied Health Option. The Didactic Program in Dietetics prepares students for a career as a Registered Dietitian. The Allied Health program is a great choice for students planning to continue their education in a health related field like physical therapy or dental hygiene.

2. Queens College-CUNY – Flushing, New York

B.S. Nutrition and Dietetics

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Average Net Price: $4,739
The Nutrition and Dietetics Program at Queens College is a hands-on program with courses in areas like:

-biology

-chemistry

-psychology

-medical nutrition therapy

-nutrition counseling.

Faculty are experienced practitioners who understand the role nutrition plays in overall human wellness. Graduates are prepared for a didactic internship or entry into another graduate level program.

1. CUNY Brooklyn College – Brooklyn, New York

Dietetics Bachelor's Degree Program

Website

Average Net Price: $4,144
Our top most affordable bachelor's in dietetics program is offered by Brooklyn College. The holistic dietetics program focuses on health and nutrition throughout the lifespan. Students gain a critical perspective on food, nutrition, and community health. Graduates are prepared to pursue a didactic internship or work in a variety of health care settings including private practice, community centers, and hospitals.