Analysis
University of Nevada-Reno's Nutrition Sciences program stands out nationally with first-year earnings of $37,139—putting graduates in the 92nd percentile compared to nutrition programs across the country. That's 22% above the national median and well above even the 75th percentile benchmark. The moderate debt load of $20,100 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54, meaning graduates earn nearly twice what they owe. Within Nevada, where only two schools offer this program, UNR graduates earn substantially more than their counterparts at UNLV ($27,171).
The earnings trajectory shows steady growth to nearly $40,000 by year four, which is solid if not spectacular. What matters most here is the combination of strong starting salaries and reasonable debt—graduates aren't making doctor money, but they're clearing a meaningful threshold above typical nutrition program outcomes while keeping borrowing in check. The 24% Pell Grant population suggests this program serves economically diverse students who achieve above-average outcomes.
For an in-state student considering nutrition sciences, this program delivers clear value: better earnings than the alternative Nevada option, top-tier national performance, and debt you can realistically manage on an entry-level nutrition salary. The relatively accessible admission rate (85%) means qualified students have a realistic shot at these outcomes.
Where University of Nevada-Reno Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all nutrition sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Nevada-Reno graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Nevada-Reno | $37,139 | $39,738 | +7% |
| University of California-Berkeley | $35,161 | $64,929 | +85% |
| Cornell University | $30,508 | $58,713 | +92% |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | $33,669 | $56,784 | +69% |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $20,764 | $55,966 | +170% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Nevada
Nutrition Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nevada (2 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,994 | $37,139 | $39,738 | $20,100 | 0.54 | |
| $9,142 | $27,171 | — | $15,815 | 0.58 | |
| National Median | — | $30,508 | — | $24,020 | 0.79 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with nutrition sciences graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Biological Scientists, All Other
Bioinformatics Scientists
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Geneticists
Biologists
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Nevada-Reno, approximately 24% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 42 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.