The University of Texas at Austin Online Master of Science in Nutritional Science (MSNS)

The University of Texas at Austin’s Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences (MSNS) degree is a 30-credit-hour program (10 courses in total). This rigorous, yet flexible curriculum offers students the choice of studying over one or two years. You can also choose to specialize in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention or Biochemical and Functional Nutrition, although you are not locked into either specialization. If you have an interest in nutritional science research, there is an option to complete a thesis. This MSNS degree highlights the link between nutrition and human health and disease.

As a learner in the MSNS program, you’ll address critical nutrition issues such as:

• The nutritional and environmental underpinnings of energy balance and health.

• The interaction between what we eat and how our genes function.

• The role of diet on the gut microbiome.

• The effects micronutrients have on human health.

• The skills to discern scientific fact from fiction.

This program also fulfills part of the current academic requirements for the Board Certified Nutrition Specialist (BCNS) certification. BCNS requires a graduate degree in the field of nutrition from a regionally accredited university, specific coursework, and 1,000 hours of supervised experience. This certification enables you to practice medical nutrition therapy and other aspects of nutrition care in many states. Learn more about eligibility .

• Complete program in 1 or 2 years

• Required courses

• Concentration: Health Promotion & Disease Prevention

• Concentration: Biochemical & Functional Nutrition

The estimated tuition for the Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences (MSNS) degree program as of the 2024–25 academic year is $22,500. Tuition is $750 per credit hour. In addition, fees range from approximately $500 to $1,200 per semester based on the number of credit hours taken. A $500 deposit is required upon enrollment.

Please note that tuition does not include out-of-pocket expenses such as books, additional course materials or other fees.

Scholarship eligibility

At present, the MSNS is not able to offer or accept state funding.

Financial aid

There are a number of resources that may be available to help you finance your master’s degree. Resources include federal tuition assistance, private loans, employer tuition assistance, scholarships, and veteran benefits.

Applying for federal student aid

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , using a code for The University of Texas at Austin:  003658.

• Sign the FAFSA electronically with your Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID.

• Apply for financial aid at the same time as you complete your program application.

The Master of Science in Nutritional Science (MSNS) at The University of Texas at Austin offers two start dates: one in spring and one in fall. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the final deadline ahead of each start. In order to be considered, you must meet the minimum requirements for graduate study at The University of Texas at Austin. Admission is also based on grades, letters of recommendation, and the fit between the applicant’s goals and the goals of the program. GRE scores are not required.

Application deadlines

January 2025

Application requirements

To complete an application, you will need to submit the following materials:

• A relevant bachelor’s degree and prerequisite coursework

• Application fee

• Statement of purpose

• Résumé or CV

• Three letters of recommendation

• Transcripts

• English language proficiency