Holistic Nutrition Degrees, Online Included

Reviewed and updated January 14, 2025 by
Written by Julie O'Connor, CNS
Julie O'Connor, CNS
Masters in Human Nutrition (National University of Natural Medicine). Certifications as Health and Wellness Coach and CNS. Grant writer for the Human Health Project.

A holistic nutrition degree is an academic program that focuses on understanding nutrition from a whole-person perspective. These programs are known for combining nutritional science with holistic approaches, preparing graduates for careers in health coaching, wellness education, and personalized nutrition.

Unlike traditional dietetics degrees that often emphasize clinical and dietary sciences for populations or public health, a holistic nutrition degree expands beyond diet and conventional nutrition science to incorporate integrative approaches with studies in wellness, lifestyle, psychology, mind-body medicine. A holistic nutrition degree may even include herbal therapies and alternative healthcare practices.

Are there online holistic nutrition degrees?

Yes, there are online holistic nutrition degrees. These programs cater to both non-traditional and traditional students who seek flexible learning options that fit different lifestyles and professional goals. Some programs are non-degree options that offer short term educational programs leading to a holistic nutrition certification. Non-accredited programs cost much less than the per-credit hour fees of more traditional colleges and universities.

School Program Admissions
Arkansas State University Online Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Study infant and child nutrition, food safety, food science, medical nutrition therapy and sports nutrition.
Arkansas State University Online MS in Nutrition and Dietetics
Study nutritional support for patients in critical care, roles of health professionals as moral agents, leadership in nutritional health and education, and policies in this specialized master’s program.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill MPH/Registered Dietitian (MPH/RD)
Three CEPH-accredited concentrations: MPH Leadership, MPH Nutrition, MPH Registered Dietitian (MPH/RD).
i sponsored

In depth review of top online Holistic Nutrition programs

There are also schools and universities that offer two-year online bachelor's and/or master’s degrees in holistic or integrative nutrition. A few schools like the American College of Healthcare Sciences, Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) and University of the Western States (UWS) offer master’s degrees, with the latter two offering both Master's and Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) programs. Here is a full in-depth review of some of the best online holistic nutrition degrees we could find. As always be sure to talk with the schools' representatives to verify admissions requirements, costs, courses, and more.

Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) - online only

The Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) offers a Health Coach Board Certification Training Program, which is a one-year online certification program. It is not an accredited degree program. The curriculum includes 40 comprehensive modules, delivered weekly, that introduce students to multiple dietary theories and emphasizes concepts of bio-individuality, along with its proprietary coaching process.

The program covers basic nutrition concepts, coaching skills, and coaching-based business concepts, alongside traditional nutrition education. Students complete the program in six months for health coach certification or choose a pathway to become board-certified through the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) in 9-12 months. While less academically rigorous than university-based master's programs, the curriculum does include instruction from notable wellness experts and healthcare professionals, and prepares graduates to advance to careers in health coaching or nutrition consulting. While IIN is not nationally accredited as a degree program, it does provide partnerships with other certifying institutions like the State University of New York (SUNY). IIN courses can provide up to 29 credits toward a relevant degree program at SUNY schools. Graduates of its program are also eligible to apply for and sit for the NBHWC's certifying exam to become a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC), after completing the required additional coaching mentorship hours to sit for the exam.

American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) - Master's, Bachelor's, and Certificate Programs (online)

The Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition from American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) is an online program designed for professionals seeking advanced education in holistic nutrition. The program requires 36 credits for completion and can typically be finished in two years of part-time study. ACHS is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), and the program aligns with the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) standards. ACHS's master of nutrition program is also an approved pathway for the BCNS® credential.

ACHS's graduate curriculum combines evidence-based nutrition science with holistic wellness principles, covering topics such as advanced nutritional biochemistry, functional nutrition assessment, sports nutrition, environmental health, and research methods. It also includes herbalism and aromatherapy for a comprehensive holistic program. Students learn to develop personalized nutrition protocols, understand nutrient-drug interactions, and apply botanical medicine principles. The program also includes a capstone research project where students conduct original research in their area of interest.

Graduates of ACHS's master's program cannot call themselves registered dietitians, but they can pursue careers as holistic nutrition consultants, wellness educators, or corporate wellness program directors. The program is a NANP 'anchor' school, meaning its curriculum prepares students for board certification through NANP's Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board (HNCB).

National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) --Bachelor, and Master of Science in Nutrition

The National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM), based in Portland, Oregon, is known as the oldest naturopathic college in the U.S. It's Master of Science in Nutrition program combines classical naturopathic principles with contemporary, practice-based integrative nutrition science and research. The program emphasizes a whole-food, whole-person approach to nutrition, teaching students to understand both the biochemical aspects of nutrition and its broader role in preventive healthcare and healing. Students learn to develop evidence-based nutritional protocols while considering factors like food quality, seasonal eating, and emphasizes the role of nutrition in addressing chronic disease, autoimmune conditions, and digestive disorders.

The curriculum spans two years of full-time study which can be done in person on its downtown Portland campus or online, and includes courses in nutritional biochemistry, therapeutic diets, medical nutrition therapy, whole foods cooking, dietary supplements, clinical assessment, and research methods. NUNM's program is unique as it incorporates hands-on cooking labs and clinical experience through their on-campus Lair Hill medical teaching clinic and herbal medicinary, where students work with real clients under faculty supervision. The curriculum is structured as a pathway toward accumulating hours for the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS) CNS® credential. Graduates of the program become eligible to sit for the BCNS exam.

Students can choose between two tracks: the Culinary track, which focuses on hands-on culinary nutrition skills and applied therapeutic diets, or the Clinical track, which emphasizes practical clinical and medical nutrition therapy skills for working directly with clients. Graduates are prepared for careers in a variety of settings like clinical practice, nutrition research, education, or consulting, health coaching and nutritional counseling. Recent graduates have gone on to serve as nutritionists or integrative healthcare teams, start personal chef businesses, and professional food service consultant, and involvement in community nutrition educational programs.

Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA) -- Diploma programs in holistic nutrition (no degree programs); Holistic Health & Wellness Coach (online) with a concentration in holistic nutrition

The Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA) doesn't offer a Master, or Bachelor of Science in Holistic Nutrition - instead, they offer a Holistic Nutrition diploma program and an associate’s degree in Holistic Healthcare with a concentration in 3 distinct areas (herbalism, massage or mind/body transformational psychology).

The holistic nutrition program is a 755-hour diploma/certificate program that can be completed online or on-campus in Tempe, Arizona. The curriculum focuses on whole-food nutrition principles, dietary theory, nutritional supplementation, and coaching skills. Students learn about topics such as whole food nutrition, ayurvedic concepts, nutrition for special populations, and business development for nutrition practitioners.

This program prepares graduates to work as nutrition educators, wellness coaches, or holistic nutrition consultants. While not a master's degree program, it is designed to provide practical skills for those wanting to enter the holistic nutrition field. Graduates can move on to pursue board certification through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP), but their program does not offer a pathway to the American Nutrition Association's CNS® board certification, which requires a master’s degree to sit for the exam.

Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) -- Master of Science, and Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (recently merged with Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU)

MUIH, based in Laurel, MD, offers both a Master of Science and a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition rooted in holistic and integrative nutrition. The master’s program is a 36-credit degree that can be completed primarily online with some required on-campus residencies. The curriculum integrates traditional healing wisdom with contemporary science, emphasizing personalized nutrition, functional nutrition principles, and whole food therapeutics. Students learn to conduct nutritional assessments, develop therapeutic protocols, and understand the relationships between nutrition, physiology, and chronic disease.

The Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) is a 39-credit post-master's program designed for nutrition professionals seeking advanced clinical expertise. This program deepens clinical skills through advanced coursework in functional nutrition, research methods, integrative health approaches, and clinical applications. Both programs include supervised clinical experience through MUIH's Natural Care Center or approved external sites.

Both programs are accredited, and unique in their integration of traditional healing systems with modern nutritional science. They emphasize a food-first approach while incorporating dietary supplements when appropriate. Graduates are prepared for careers in clinical practice, consulting, research, or education. Graduates can seek board certification through various professional organizations, most notably the BCNS® credential.

University of the Western States -- Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine; Doctor of Clinical Nutrition

The University of Western States (UWS) offers a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine program that can be completed entirely online. The program consists of 52 quarter credits and is typically completed in 2-3 years of part-time study. It's designed to provide advanced knowledge of functional nutrition, emphasizing a systems-biology approach that examines the complex relationships between nutrition, physiology, and chronic disease.

The curriculum combines core nutrition science with functional medicine principles, covering topics such as nutritional biochemistry, functional medicine for chronic disease, gastrointestinal imbalances, detoxification, and research methods. The program stands out for its strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and clinical applications. Students learn to critically evaluate scientific literature and apply current research to develop personalized nutrition interventions.

UWS also offers a Graduate Certificate in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine for those seeking advanced nutrition knowledge without committing to a full master's program. The certificate program consists of 21 quarter credits and can be completed in about one year. Both programs are accredited, with the MS and DCN program providing a pathway for advanced certification with the BCNS® credential. Graduates of its programs pursue careers in clinical nutrition, consulting, public health, nutrition research, corporate wellness, or education.

Sonoran University of Health Sciences -- online Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition

Sonoran University of Health Sciences (formerly Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine), based in Tempe, AZ, offers a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition program that can be completed online or in a hybrid format part-time on campus. The program consists of 37 credits and can typically be completed in two years of part-time study. It's designed to provide advanced clinical nutrition training with a focus on the importance food and nutrition play in integrated healthcare, natural products, and nutraceuticals. The curriculum is notable for its emphasis on both research literacy and clinical applications, requiring students to complete a capstone research project.

The curriculum includes coursework in advanced nutritional biochemistry, functional nutrition assessment, therapeutic diets, nutrigenomics, and clinical nutrition for various conditions. Students learn to develop evidence-based nutrition protocols while considering the whole person and root causes of health issues. The program also includes training in nutritional counseling and business development.

While graduates of Sonoran cannot practice as registered dietitians without completing separate RD requirements, they can pursue the BCNS® credential, as Sonoran's curriculum lines up with requirements to sit for the BCNS exam. Graduates go on to cultivate careers as nutrition consultants, researchers, educators, or wellness program directors. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and aligns with standards set by professional organizations in the field of holistic nutrition.

The University of Bridgeport-- online Master of Science in Human Nutrition

The University of Bridgeport, based in Bridgeport, CT, offers a Master of Science in Human Nutrition (MS) that combines traditional nutrition science with integrative and functional medicine approaches. The program is available both online and on-campus, requiring 36 credits for completion and typically takes two years of part-time study. UB's program has a strong science foundation, featuring courses in biochemistry, clinical nutrition, and research methodology, while also incorporating holistic and integrative approaches to nutrition therapy.

The curriculum covers topics such as functional medicine principles, vitamin and mineral metabolism, botanical medicine, developmental nutrition, and food science. A distinctive feature is their emphasis on research—students must complete a comprehensive research project or thesis. The program prepares graduates for various career paths, including clinical nutrition practice, research, education, or industry positions.

Graduates can pursue advanced credentials, since the curriculum provides a pathway to board certification through organizations like the Clinical Nutrition Certification Board (CNCB) or the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS) CNS® credential. The program is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Bastyr University -- Master of Science in Integrative Nutrition (MSIN) Online; Master of Science in Nutrition, Didactic Program in Dietetics; Master of Science in Nutrition/master’s in counseling psychology (dual MSN/MACP)

Bastyr University offers some of the most comprehensive training in holistic/integrative nutrition in the country. It has nine nutrition programs at the bachelor's and master level. Bastyr, which hosts campuses in both in Seattle and San Diego, is also one of very few institutions offering holistic nutrition and integrative education with both a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD)- accredited by both the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), and the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS). This makes it a unique option for students who want to combine holistic nutrition education with the pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian (RD), or a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS®). Both credentials require a minimum of a master’s degree to sit for their respective examinations.

Bastyr's online Master of Science in Integrative Nutrition program is distinctive from the DPD program. The curriculum covers a range of topics through its distinct holistic wellness lens, and includes coursework in research, nutritional biochemistry, culinary medicine, therapeutic diets, counseling skills, disease prevention, dietary supplementation, food systems, and justice. Campus-based students gain hands-on experience through Bastyr's teaching clinics, cooking labs, and research opportunities. Graduates of Bastyr's MSIN program fulfill the academic requirements to sit for the Board exam to earn the BCNS® credential, which additionally requires 1,000 hours of supervised practice training.

Nutrition Therapy Institute-- online Nutrition Therapist Certification

The Nutrition Therapy Institute (NTI) based in Denver, Colorado offers an online Nutrition Therapist Master Certification (NTMC) program that can be completed in 18-24 months. The program is divided into two levels: Nutrition Therapist Associate Certification (NTAC) and the advanced master certification level that is approved by NANP.

NTI's curriculum takes an inclusive, holistic approach that integrates the spiritual, physical, and emotional connections to food. It combines functional nutrition principles with holistic health concepts, emphasizing the biochemical and physiological aspects of nutrition alongside practical clinical applications. Their program is distinctive for its strong focus on therapeutic nutrition and its systematic approach to understanding the body's systems.

The curriculum includes courses in anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, digestive health, therapeutic nutrition protocols, clinical pathology, and business development. A unique aspect of NTI's program is their "Clinical Practice" course, where students work with real clients under supervision. The program is designed to prepare graduates for private practice or consulting work in holistic nutrition.

NTI is not a nationally/regionally accredited, degree-granting institution, but it is an approved NANP "anchor school" and meets the educational requirements for graduates to sit for board certification through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).

Hawthorn University -- Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition (online); Doctor of Science in Holistic Nutrition (online)

Hawthorn University offers several online nutrition programs, with their flagship being the Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition (MSHN). The program requires 77 quarter credits and takes 2-3 years to complete. The curriculum is notable for its thorough coverage of both traditional healing systems and modern nutritional science, with a strong emphasis on therapeutic nutrition and clinical applications. Students complete coursework in areas such as nutritional biochemistry, therapeutic dietary protocols, research literacy, and functional assessment techniques. The program culminates in a master's thesis project.

Hawthorn also offers a Doctor of Science in Holistic Nutrition (DSc) program and several certificate programs in holistic nutrition. Their programs are distinctive for being 100% online and accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Hawthorn's programs prepare students for board certification through NANP and the Board Certification in Holistic Nutrition® through its Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board (HNCB).

Bauman College -- online Nutrition Consultant certification

Bauman College, a Berkeley, CA-based holistic nutrition and culinary arts school, offers a 12-month Nutrition Consultant program, and a Holistic Chef culinary program. Bauman is known for its evidence-based approach that incorporates nutrition science, sustainability practices and the promotion of whole foods. This focus helps graduates develop a strong foundation for careers in health coaching, nutrition consulting, and other wellness-related fields. The nutrition consultant program is structured to provide comprehensive training in holistic nutrition principles and therapeutic applications. Students learn how to assess and develop personalized nutrition protocols for various health conditions that promote optimal well-being.

While Bauman is not degree-granting school, it does prepare its graduates for certification through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP), which provides a path to careers as nutrition consultants, educators, or wellness coaches. The program is licensed by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education.

What is NANP certification?

The National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) is a non-profit professional organization that supports holistic and functional nutrition practitioners. Its mission is to advocate for, and expand the scope and recognition of holistic nutrition as a legitimate practice. NANP manages its own credentialing board and offers a certification process tailored to holistic nutrition. Graduates of NANP-approved programs seeking a professional community and support with a holistic focus—without pursuing the more stringent credentialing requirements of Clinical Nutrition Specialist (CNS) or Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) certifications—will find value in NANP’s continuing education and career development resources.

The NANP Certified Nutrition Professional (CNP) credential is designed as an education and support pathway for holistic nutrition practitioners who hold a least a bachelor’s degree or certification from a private holistic nutrition training institution, or NANP “anchor school” (like the Nutrition Therapy Institute). The CNP credential has three specific requirements. They include: becoming a NANP professional member and holding a bachelor’s degree or higher in a nutrition-related field of study from a NANP program. Candidates must also complete 500 practice experience hours, and pass the Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition® (BCHN) board exam.

While NANP focuses on helping define the scope for holistic education requirements, its credential is limited in scope of practice and may not be recognized in many clinical and medical settings. Holistic nutrition professionals generally do not fall under a licensure category unless they undertake an RD or CNS® program that additionally provides a path to state licensure (and not all states recognize the CNS® as a path to licensure). NANP CNP’s are not able to take insurance for nutrition services. Their scope of practice differs from that of licensed dietitians or nutritionists who meet stricter credentialing standards. The NANP recommends that graduates of holistic nutrition programs check their respective state laws, since licensure requirements vary by state, and many states do not have specific licensure for holistic nutritionists.

The CNP credential from NANP’s BCHN sets it apart from other nutrition credentialing boards like the BCNS or ACEND, as the requirements for its CNP credentials are much less stringent. NANP credentialed holistic nutritionists typically do not practice medical nutrition therapy or take insurance since they cannot apply for state licensure with the credential. Many NANP practitioners opt to focus on wellness coaching and education rather than medical nutrition therapy which in many states requires licensure to practice.

What is the BCNS® credential?

The BCNS CNS® credential stands for the Board Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS). This credential is a professional certification for advanced nutrition practitioners, awarded by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS), which is part of the American Nutrition Association (ANA) that oversees testing for the credential, similar to how ACEND (Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics) oversees the RD/RDN credential. It requires a minimum of a master’s degree and is focused on identifying and addressing root causes of medical conditions and diseases and moving patients toward optimal health. The CNS® credential is recognized as a high standard in the nutrition field, signifying expertise in nutrition and the ability to provide evidence-based care and advice. The credential demonstrates that an individual has met rigorous standards in the field of clinical nutrition, including: completing the educational requirements of at least a masters degree in a health science or nutrition field; completion of 1,000 hours of documented, supervised experience in nutrition; and passing a comprehensive certification exam focused on nutritional science and clinical application. The CNS® credential is often obtained by professionals who work in clinical settings, research, education and private practice.

The CNS® is recognized in 48 states as certification for practicing personalized nutrition counseling (much like the RD/RDN credential). Many of those states offer title protection and state licensure, much like the Registered Dietitian enjoys. Check your local state laws or the American Nutrition Association’s CNS State Practice Rights page at www.theana.org.

The various credentials can be confusing. But each has its distinct pathway and practice focus. Choosing one will depend on personal choice and decisions around scope of practice, career goals and timing.

What are typical courses you would take in an integrative or holistic nutrition degree?

Coursework in a holistic nutrition degree program typically includes subjects like conventional nutrition programs like nutritional biochemistry and dietary assessment, but also include whole foods nutrition, herbal therapeutics, and the impact of nutrition on mental health.

The term holistic nutritionist isn’t regulated like the title of registered dietitian. Many traditional dietetics programs do incorporate holistic and integrative concepts. However, the evidence base and academic rigor can vary significantly between holistic nutrition programs. This isn’t to say one approach is superior, they often serve different but complementary roles in healthcare and wellness. A registered dietitian might focus on medical nutrition therapy for specific conditions, while a holistic nutrition practitioner might take a broader lifestyle-based approach based on bio-individuality.

The goal of most holistic nutrition programs is to prepare graduates with the knowledge to support overall individual well-being through personalized and integrative nutrition strategies.

Here is a sample of coursework topics typically found in most holistic nutrition degree programs. They may include all or some of the below key areas of study:

  • Whole foods and disease-specific diet principles and protocols
  • Digestive health and gut-brain connection
  • Nutritional biochemistry
  • Herbal medicine and supplements
  • Culinary nutrition
  • Therapeutic diets or nutrition therapy
  • Food allergies and sensitivities
  • Mind-body connection
  • Herbal therapies and nutraceuticals
  • Environmental impacts on health
  • Lifestyle factors that influence chronic disease and health
  • Nutritional influences on immunology
  • Autoimmune principles and protocols
  • Nutraceuticals and nutritional supplementation
  • Practice-building and marketing
  • Nutrition-focused business plan development

Nutritionist career options for holistic nutrition program graduates

A holistic nutrition professional with a degree or advanced certification in holistic or integrative nutrition can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths that emphasize the integration of nutrition and whole-body wellness. Some of those include:

  • Nutrition consultant in private practice or corporate wellness programs
  • Clinical practice at functional medicine clinic (advanced certification required)
  • Research fellow or academic faculty (Master’s or Doctor of Clinical Nutrition)
  • Health and wellness writer or content creator, blog or ghost writer
  • Public health and community nutrition expert
  • Program coordinator for wellness, community or senior centers
  • Product development specialist for a supplement/natural health company or food brand
  • Policy advocate and nutrition advisor
  • Integrative health practitioner
  • Director of nutrition programs (advance degree or certification typically required)
  • Health Coaching
  • Entrepreneurial paths like wellness retreat founder, speaker, author, or writer and coach for online group programs