5 Trusted Online Masters in Clinical Nutrition Programs for Hospitals

Nutrition is - and should be - at the heart of hospital patient care and we’ve come a long way from the days of unappetizing slop being fed to patients. Clinical nutrition is a fast-growing science and this has led to a demand for highly qualified, registered professionals such as dietician nutritionists - a demand that is expected to increase by 7% over the next decade. Those looking to become an RDN (Registered Dietician Nutritionist) now need, by law, to hold a Master’s Degree and, in this article, we’re looking at our top five online masters programs in clinical nutrition for hospitals.

What To Look For In Hospital-Trusted Clinical Nutrition Programs

Despite what you may think, not all programs are created equal - which is food for thought if you’re planning on embarking on your clinical nutrition journey. For the best results, you should be shortlisting courses which include:

• ACEND accreditation (Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics) to ensure top dietetics education standards
• Combined academic and hands-on training
• Supervised real-life experiences
• Collaborations
• Internship and employment opportunities

As with so many other industries, the internet has revolutionised professional learning for the healthcare sector meaning that it’s now possible to gain a degree alongside your existing responsibilities. These online programs offer a proven and direct path to entry-level RDN positions through rock solid partnerships.

1. University of Northern Colorado

Offers an MS in Dietetics with internships

Leading the way for other similar establishments, the University of Northern Colorado opened the doors to its UND's master’s in nutrition online program in 1995. Innovative and comprehensive, this program features in excess of 1000 hours of supervised practical experience within healthcare settings over two or three years. A direct pathway to the RDN exam and a subsequent placement, the program encompasses intensive care, food service and management and community nutrition and comes with the backing of ACEND accreditation.

2. University of Kentucky

Study an MS in Nutritional Sciences, Clinical Nutrition Track

While Kentucky might be best known for its fried chicken, this fully online 18-month program is all about nutrition. With a focus on clinical nutrition, the program is designed specifically for graduates and existing healthcare professionals who are looking to expand on their clinical expertise and find a role within a healthcare or medical institution. The ultimate in flexibility, there are no admission test score requirements and no set times for this course which covers a wide range of subjects including pathophysiology, advanced nutritional therapies and proactive nutrition interventions. Graduates will gain 30 credits toward an MS in Nutritional Sciences.

3. Colorado State University

Study for a Master of Advanced Practice in Dietetics (MAPD)

This respected university offers a number of options for budding RDNs including Community Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition and Nutrition Counselling. This fast-track MAPD course allows students to gain an ACEND approved Master’s Degree online in just 12 months for those looking to work in intensive care environments. With a balance of academic and hands-on supervised training, this course was created to meet the increasing demands for graduates with nutrition expertise.

4. UNT Health Science Center Fort Worth

Get an MS in Clinical Nutrition (Coordinated Program)

The Sunshine State is the setting for this 22-month program which partners up with top clinical and healthcare organizations for a diverse and comprehensive learning experience. Fully online, this forward-thinking course spans 1000 hours of clinical tuition with simulations and collaborations and, with ACEND accreditation, graduates have access to training for RDN credentials.

5. University of Northern Colorado

Provides an MS in Dietetics (Advanced Practice Option)

No, you’re not seeing double - this fantastic university has already been mentioned in this article but this particular program is aimed at those already in an RDN role and those looking to widen their expertise. Over 20 months, licensed healthcare professionals will pack in advanced research and clinical nutrition processes along with gaining management and leadership skills. With the flexibility of online learning, the curriculum here is all about marrying academic knowledge with good old-fashioned boots on the ground practice and is aimed at career advancement for diet professionals who have an eye on advancement or specialization.

Develop Your Clinical Nutrition Career

Nutrition is an integral part of the patient recovery and recuperation process and, as such, hospitals and clinics are always on the lookout for passionate, qualified staff. The programs diagnosed in this article represent the gold standard in flexible but comprehensive training and can unlock a number of exciting roles. In the modern world, medical, clinical and healthcare organizations understand that nutrition is integral to patient outcomes and this, in turn, creates some fantastic opportunities.

If you’re ready to take your career to the next course, a Masters in Clinical Nutrition will help improve your prospects as well as ticking the box on the new RDN eligibility requirements.