Dietetics & Nutrition at Kent State University at Kent

Kent, OH · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
23 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
24
Optimistic
23
Base Case
22
Pessimistic
Earnings $23,993/yr (-30% vs median)
AI Risk High (55% exposed)
Job Market Medium (10,200 openings/yr)
ROI 10.8x earnings multiple (6.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #35 of 37 Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services programs

Program Analysis

The financial outcomes for this program present a significant challenge, reflecting broader dynamics within the dietetics field and the specific regional labor market. Entry-level roles, especially outside major metropolitan areas like the Kent region, often start at a lower wage, particularly in community health, school systems, or long-term care facilities rather than large hospital systems. The path to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) now requires a master's degree and extensive supervised practice, which delays full earning potential while accruing further educational costs. Furthermore, some foundational tasks in nutrition counseling are increasingly susceptible to AI augmentation, meaning you'll need to develop advanced, specialized skills to maintain a competitive edge. To improve your prospects, consider pursuing a dual degree or a specialization in areas like clinical nutrition, sports dietetics, or corporate wellness, and actively seek internship opportunities that extend beyond the immediate regional market.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Dietetics & Nutrition graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $563K $555K $506K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.0x 10.8x 9.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.3x 6.2x 5.7x
Probability of Field Employment 51% 45% 32%
DegreeOutlook Score 24 23 22

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$51,384
Out-of-state: $89,264 (6.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$78,456
-53% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,792
12.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,119
109% growth from Year 1

About Kent State University at Kent

Kent State University at Kent accepts 87% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, enrolling 19,134 students in Kent, OH.

See all programs and financial aid at Kent State University at Kent →

Top Career Paths

Dietitians and nutritionists $73,850/yr
Dietetic technicians $37,040/yr
View all 2 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Dietetics & Nutrition at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Kent State University at Kent's Dietetics & Nutrition program score?
This program scores 23/100 — on the lower end for Dietetics & Nutrition. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do Kent State University at Kent Dietetics & Nutrition graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.0x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
How vulnerable is Dietetics & Nutrition to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Dietetics & Nutrition careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 55% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Dietetics & Nutrition earnings lower at Kent State University at Kent?
Lower starting pay at Kent State University at Kent may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →