As the saying goes, 鈥淵ou are what you eat.鈥� No one knows this better than nutritionists. A can be linked to many physical ailments and even mental health problems. An unhealthy diet, for example, can increase the risk of at least 13 types of cancers, cause tooth decay and depression, and has even been found to cause more deaths than smoking. Still, it鈥檚 important to note that both hunger and obesity are forms of malnutrition. Eating nourishing foods can ward off illness and improve the overall quality of life. Nutritionists are key to the education and care of clients who require guidance in this area of their lives. But becoming a nutritionist doesn鈥檛 happen overnight. It requires specialized training, education, and, in some states, certification and/or licensure.
Nutritionist Degree Requirements
It is technically possible to label yourself a 鈥渘utritionist鈥� after you鈥檝e received a bachelor鈥檚 degree in Nutrition or a related field, such as Health Science. However, for those candidates who are interested in becoming certified professionals, a master鈥檚 degree is preferred. Below is a breakdown of nutritionist education requirements, by degree level.
Bachelor鈥檚 Degree
If you鈥檝e yet to earn a degree, it鈥檚 suggested that you begin with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in majors such as Food Science, Dietetics, Nutrition, or Health Science. After earning your bachelor鈥檚 degree, you鈥檒l be eligible to pursue entry-level careers in fitness, food service, and nutrition, both clinical and non-clinical environments. Some may choose to become a , educating clients on how they can adjust their lifestyle and dietary habits. However, this credential does not give anyone a legal right to practice nutrition. Those who are interested in working in a clinical environment, advising patients on how to prevent and manage disease through their diet, should continue to graduate studies.
Master鈥檚 Degree
Individuals who are heavily invested in the idea of providing clinical care to patients should pursue a master鈥檚 degree in Nutrition. Graduate work prepares students to work in a variety of areas in the nutrition field. As an MS in Nutrition degree holder, you will be qualified to teach, provide clinical care in private medical practices, hospitals, and government agencies, and conduct research. You may also pursue opportunities to work for community health organizations and nutritional companies. Most importantly, after completion of a master鈥檚 degree, you will be eligible to pursue credentialing exams and titles, such as the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS).
Nutritionist Licensing Requirements
Upon graduating with a master鈥檚 degree in Nutrition and fulfilling the supervised experience requirement and passing their exam, you may be able to pursue licensure in many states.
Requirements Vary, State to State
The requirement of a license to practice is decided at the state level. For those students who plan on practicing in or New York, it is recommended that they check with their state Board of Health to make sure they鈥檙e up to date on the most recent regulations. Currently, both New York and Connecticut certify dietitians and nutritionists. However, there is no license required for providing general nutrition care. CNS certification is a pathway to licensure in some states, but not all, so make sure聽you before choosing a MS in Nutrition program.
Job Opportunities: Why Certification Matters
Certified Nutrition Specialist are typically afforded greater job opportunities. Earning certification after completing your education is an indication to employers that you鈥檝e received advanced medical nutrition training and developed your skills while working under supervision.
What is a CNS?
Certified Nutrition Specialists are nutrition experts who have earned CNS board certification after earning at least a master鈥檚 degree from a reputable nutrition school. In addition to earning their master鈥檚 degree, they must also complete 1,000 hours of supervised experience and pass the exam administered by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS).
Clinical Nutrition Specialists have an array of career options. They often work in clinics that provide nutritional advice and develop care plans. They can also work advising government agencies, developing community programs, and providing care in rehabilitation facilities. Their expertise allows them to advise clients who have been diagnosed with a variety of conditions including diabetes, disordered eating, and high blood pressure.
Nutritionists are uniquely qualified to assess their clients鈥� nutritional needs and to develop nutrition programs to support overall health through diet. Becoming a nutritionist takes hard work, time, and an abiding passion for an evidence-based approach to care. If becoming a skilled nutritionist is your goal, earning a master鈥檚 degree in Nutrition is the path forward.
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