Nutrition & Food Science at University of Idaho

Moscow, ID · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
51 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
52
Optimistic
51
Base Case
50
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,212/yr (12% vs median)
AI Risk High (45% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (306,000 openings/yr)
ROI 14.5x earnings multiple (4.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #8 of 38 Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

The University of Idaho's program distinguishes itself by leveraging its land-grant university status, fostering strong ties to Idaho's robust agricultural sector and regional healthcare needs. This connection means your education is often highly practical, preparing you for roles in food science, community nutrition, and institutional food service management. Graduates frequently find opportunities with local and regional employers in food processing, public health, and K-12 education, where a deep understanding of food systems and human well-being is critical. While some administrative aspects of these careers may see automation, the program’s emphasis on hands-on experience and direct client interaction equips you with essential skills that are less susceptible to AI disruption. You'll develop critical thinking and relationship-building abilities crucial for roles like clinical dietetics or educational outreach. To maximize your prospects, actively seek internships early in your studies, especially those involving patient care or food product development, as practical experience will be your strongest asset in the job market.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $513K $512K $478K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 14.6x 14.5x 13.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.3x 4.3x 4.0x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 47% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 52 51 50

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,264
Out-of-state: $119,136 (4.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$55,128
-56% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,000
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$49,550
41% growth from Year 1

About University of Idaho

University of Idaho has a 79% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 7,363 students in Moscow, ID.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Idaho →

Top Career Paths

Family and consumer sciences teachers, postsecondary $77,280/yr
Dietitians and nutritionists $73,850/yr
Food service managers $65,310/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Nutrition & Food Science at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Idaho

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

What does a 51/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Nutrition & Food Science at University of Idaho?
At 51/100, University of Idaho's Nutrition & Food Science program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Nutrition & Food Science at University of Idaho?
The 45% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is University of Idaho one of the best schools for Nutrition & Food Science?
Among 38 Nutrition & Food Science programs, University of Idaho's #8 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →