MS in Human Nutrition

MS in Human Nutrition

MS class standing in front of the Vagelos Education Center building with the program directors.

Earn Your MS in Human Nutrition in Just One Year

Join a research-driven Master of Science (MS) in Human Nutrition program at Columbia University—completed in just one year across three semesters: fall, spring, and summer.

A Flexible, Thesis-Focused Curriculum

Our 33-credit program blends academic rigor with real-world research experience. Each student completes a guided master’s thesis in one of three specialized tracks:

  • Basic Nutrition Science
  • Clinical Nutrition
  • Public Health Nutrition

You'll be paired with a dedicated faculty mentor who will guide your thesis work and help you explore research and career opportunities.

Explore Research Opportunities

Courses That Build a Strong Foundation

In addition to the thesis, students take coursework in key topics such as:

  • Nutritional Biochemistry
  • Life Cycle Nutrition
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health Nutrition

Courses are designed to build deep understanding and practical skills in nutrition science, preparing students for diverse career paths in research, academia, clinical settings, and public health.

View Curriculum and Coursework

Why Choose Columbia’s MS in Human Nutrition? 

  • Complete your degree in just 12 months
  • Study at a world-renowned Ivy League university
  • Work closely with expert faculty mentors
  • Gain hands-on experience through a capstone thesis
  • Launch your career in nutrition science and healthcare

The IHN was truly transformative for my career. It deepened my passion for integrative healthcare and gave me the opportunity to engage in translational research. My experiences at IHN and in the research setting directly shaped my path to dental school and continue to influence my decisions today. I’m especially grateful for the mentorship—I built lasting relationships with mentors from both the program and the lab who have supported me well beyond graduation.” — Victoria Scarpa, MS’18

Hear Alumni Stories

Where Our Graduates Go

Graduates of Columbia’s MS in Human Nutrition program launch successful careers in:

  • Medical and Dental Schools
  • Research Labs and PhD Programs
  • Public Health Institutions
  • Government and Nonprofit Nutrition Agencies  

Explore Alumni Outcomes

Flexible Options to Fit Your Life

While most students complete the MS program in one year, part-time options are available for those who prefer a more flexible pace.

Applications for Fall 2026 Open October 2025

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Application Information

Completed applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants are encouraged to apply early.
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Curriculum

A core component of the Masters in Human Nutrition program is a thesis research project on basic science, clinical, or public health topics.

Prospective Student FAQs

Our students come from a diverse array of backgrounds, united by their desire to understand and advance nutrition science, and disseminate their newly found knowledge to others.

Alumni Career Profiles

Our MS in Human Nutrition prepares students for a broad range of careers. We also provide a range of support for our alumni as they pursue graduate or professional options.