MS in Nutrition Research
Nutrition graduate program
Position yourself as a nutrition expert
Advance your career in nutrition research or prepare for a PhD
Oregon State’s MS in Nutrition Research program offers thesis-based training in metabolism, food insecurity, gut health and more. You’ll gain hands-on experience designing studies, analyzing data and communicating research — ideal preparation for doctoral study or a career in nutrition science or policy.
Program highlights
- Complete an independent, faculty-mentored research thesis
- Gain hands-on experience in labs, data analysis and scientific communication
- Customize electives in areas like food systems, nutrient metabolism and epidemiology
- Build a strong foundation in biochemical, physiological and community nutrition
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Find detailed information about degree requirements and coursework in the 2025-26 nutrition graduate student handbook (pdf)
Nutrition research at Oregon State
As a master’s student, you’ll apply what you learn in coursework to real-world research with supportive, nationally recognized faculty working to improve health in Oregon and beyond.
Projects explore topics such as:
- Human milk biology
- Cancer prevention
- Metabolic disease
- Food security
- School and community nutrition education
- Nutrition epidemiology
Detailed descriptions of the nutrition research being conducted at Oregon State can be found on each lab’s webpage.
Estimated costs
The Nutrition MS program is a 45-64 -credit program that can be completed within 2 years on a full-time credit load (except for summer). Estimated costs for the whole program:
Resident cost
$33,125
Resident Tuition ($27,972)
+ Fees ($5,153)
Non-resident cost
$70,169
Non-resident Tuition ($65,016)
+ Fees ($5,153)
Tuition and fees estimates were calculated using the 25-26 academic year tuition and fees tables in combination with the tuition calculator. Please note, tuition and fees can change for the 26-27 academic year.
Please Note Cost of Attendance figures are used for budgeting purposes only and represent an estimate of projected costs for the academic year before any financial aid. Actual costs may vary based on personal circumstances.
Lauren Chan, MS, RD, LDN
“From the high-quality coursework, to opportunities to grow skills in teaching and grantsmanship, I am proud to have already been part of 12 publications and multiple funded grants. My training has set me up for a successful future, and I cannot thank the nutrition department enough for their commitment to my education.”
Careers in nutrition
After completing the Master of Science in nutrition, you will be able to synthesize and communicate knowledge in your field of study; identify central issues, problems and research priorities in your field of study; and design, conduct, interpret and communicate original research.
Graduates find employment as researchers and teachers at universities, researchers and leaders in federal and state agencies (e.g., NIH, USDA, FDA) or companies in the nutrition and the food space. Completion of the MS in Nutrition Research will also prepare you to continue your education in PhD and other advanced degree programs.
We’re here to help
We’re happy to connect with you by email, phone or virtual meetings.
For questions about the application process and requirements, contact COH graduate admissions.
To talk about curriculum and life as a doctoral student, contact our graduate program manager.
For academic or professional information specific to the nutrition doctoral program, please contact the Program Director Yumie Takata, PhD
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