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Nutritionist Career Guide

What is a nutritionist?

A nutritionist is a health professional who specializes in food and nutrition. They advise individuals on dietary practices that foster health, support wellness, and mitigate health-related issues. These professionals can work with individuals to help them make dietary choices that support specific health needs, such as managing chronic diseases, improving mental health, or achieving athletic performance goals.

They are knowledgeable about how the body uses nutrients, the relationship between diet, health, and disease, and how to manage food intake and dietary specifications for different needs and lifestyles. These specialists often serve as educators and advocates for healthy eating, striving to inspire and inform the public about the impact of food choices on overall health. They are instrumental in crafting eating plans that promote long-term, sustainable health behaviors and improve quality of life.

Duties and responsibilities

Nutritionists assess their clients’ dietary habits and health needs to develop personalized nutrition plans that encourage healthy eating habits. They collect information on clients’ health goals and dietary restrictions, such as allergies or intolerances, and consider lifestyle factors that impact food choices. In addition to creating meal plans, they often monitor clients’ progress and adjust their plans as needed.

They may work in conjunction with other healthcare professionals to address specific health issues, such as diabetes management, weight loss, or sports nutrition. Education is a significant component of their role; these professionals may conduct workshops, write articles or guides, and educate clients on the nutritional value of different foods, the importance of balanced diets, and strategies for maintaining healthy eating habits.

Work environment

Nutritionists can be found in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, public health organizations, and private practice. Some may work in academic settings or for corporations in wellness program management or food product development. The work environment is generally an office or consultation room, where one-on-one meetings with clients take place.

These specialists also spend time developing nutrition plans, analyzing scientific research, and possibly conducting community workshops or seminars. Depending on their employment setting, they might work with specific populations, like pediatric or geriatric clients, athletes, or individuals with chronic diseases. The nature of their work can be both analytical, requiring attention to detail in creating dietary plans, and interpersonal, involving communication and education.

Typical work hours

The typical work hours for a nutritionist can align with the standard forty-hour work week, but this can vary based on the setting and nature of their role. Professionals in clinical settings might have shifts that include evenings or weekends, while those in private practice may have more control over their schedules, allowing them to set appointments during traditional work hours or at times that accommodate their clients’ needs. Nutritionists who work for school systems or corporations might adhere to a more fixed schedule. The career also allows for part-time opportunities and, in some cases, remote consulting work, which can provide greater flexibility in work hours.


How to become a nutritionist

In order to become a nutritionist, you will need a combination of education, training, and experience. In this career guide section, we cover the steps you’ll need to take to achieve your goal:

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree

The first step is to get your bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited college or university. The most common choices include nutrition, health, microbiology, or food science. Not all states require a college degree, but it will give you the knowledge base you need to succeed in this field.

Step 2: Complete an internship

Like many jobs that deal with people’s health and wellness, there is a requirement to get some hands-on training in the field under the supervision of a licensed and qualified professional. Once you have your degree, search for an internship that allows you to get some experience working with a nutritionist. 

Many states have specific requirements for the number of hours you must complete in the field before taking your licensing exam. Check with the appropriate state agency to see what the prerequisites are for your state, and make sure that you apply for an experience that meets the requirements.

Step 3: Pass the necessary exam and get licensed

If your state requires certification, your next step is to take the appropriate exam and become licensed. Even if you work in a state with no statutes regulating this occupation, you can still prime a Certified Nutrition Specialist from the American Nutrition Association.

Step 4: Find a job

Search for job postings using all the usual avenues. Check online job listings on websites like LinkedIn, and do some outreach to your current professional network. You can often apply for employment at the location where you did your internship if there are openings. 

Step 5: Receive additional certifications

The more education you have, the better you’ll be at your job. Take advantage of the many courses and certifications you can get. 

Step 6: Work toward a graduate degree

Advancing your nutrition career often requires continuing education and receiving your graduate degree. The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam will need at least a master’s degree before you can take it. With a graduate degree, you’ll have an even more robust understanding of food science, nutritional therapy, food service systems, and other relevant areas to help with community nutrition.

Step 7: Stay up to date with licenses and credentials

Every license and certificate has its requirements for renewal. Stay current with your credentials by setting reminders for any expirations, completing the required continuing education courses, and taking any necessary exams and tests. 


How much do nutritionists make?

The earnings for nutritionists can be influenced by a range of factors, including their level of education, professional credentials, area of specialization, type of employment, and geographic location.

Highest paying industries

  • Outpatient Care Centers: $70,000
  • General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: $68,000
  • Special Food Services: $66,000
  • Nursing Care Facilities: $64,000
  • Local Government: $63,000

Highest paying states

  • California: $76,000
  • Alaska: $73,000
  • Connecticut: $71,000
  • Hawaii: $70,000
  • New Jersey: $69,000

Browse nutritionist salary data by market


Types of nutritionists

Because food and nutrition are critical parts of life and health, nutritionists work in many different community areas and throughout all stages of life. 

Pediatric nutritionists

Pediatric nutritionists focus on infants and children to ensure they receive proper nutrition by educating parents on breastfeeding, formula, and introducing foods to kids. They even work in schools to help develop breakfast, lunch, and snack programs to benefit the students.

Gerontological nutritionists

Gerontological nutritionists work with older adults to improve their quality of life. Whether they work primarily in a nursing home or partner with doctor’s offices and primary care physicians, they can help people assess their diets and find meal plans that promote healthy aging.

Between those two, you’ll find specialists who work within the community and with government agencies to help with food regulation or general education on nutrition. Clinical nutritionists help in inpatient and outpatient facilities to help address specific medical issues like obesity, diabetes, or food sensitivities. 

Nutritionists in specific medical fields

There are nutritionists trained in particular medical areas as well. Oncology nutritionists work with cancer patients during chemo and treatments to develop a meal plan to help them keep as much strength and energy as possible. Renal care nutritionists work with patients with kidney problems and help plan healthy diets to support their organs.

Sports and athletic nutritionists

Finally, there are athletic and sports nutritionists. Their primary goal is to help enhance athletic performance. They work with individual athletes and team organizations to organize meal plans during the season and help with training in the off-season. They work closely with trainers to ensure everyone is getting enough caloric intake and all the necessary nutrition to perform.


Top skills for nutritionists

This career guide section outlines the skills and abilities that will help you find success as a nutritionist.

Nutritional science expertise

A thorough grounding in the principles of nutrition, biochemistry, and physiology is indispensable for these professionals. This expertise allows for the evaluation of clients’ dietary needs and the development of personalized nutrition plans. A strong grasp of the science behind nutrients, digestion, and metabolism is necessary to provide evidence-based recommendations and adapt them to individual requirements.

Counseling and coaching skills

They often serve as health coaches, requiring the ability to counsel clients effectively. This involves active listening, empathy, and the ability to motivate and encourage individuals to make lasting changes. Counseling skills are also important for helping clients navigate challenges and overcome barriers to healthy eating.

Communication skills

The ability to communicate complex information clearly and engagingly is essential. They must translate scientific information into actionable advice that clients can easily understand and follow. This includes written communication for developing meal plans and educational materials, as well as verbal communication for presenting information in consultations or group settings.

Assessment and analytical skills

Evaluating a client’s nutritional status involves analyzing dietary habits, health history, and sometimes laboratory results. These specialists need strong analytical skills to interpret this data and to monitor the progress of their clients. This assessment is critical in providing tailored advice and adjusting nutrition plans as needed.

Cultural competency

Understanding and respecting cultural dietary practices and preferences is vital. This competency ensures that they can provide relevant and sensitive dietary advice to a diverse clientele. It involves being knowledgeable about different cuisines, religious dietary restrictions, and cultural food practices to ensure recommendations are practical and respectful.


Nutritionist career path

The career path for a nutritionist typically begins with completing a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of food science, biochemistry, and human physiology is crucial at this stage. In many regions, becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) involves completing an accredited, supervised practice program and passing a national examination.

Early career stages often involve entry-level roles such as a clinical dietetic technician or a nutrition assistant, where practical experience is gained through working with registered dietitians or in food service management. In these roles, one may be responsible for assessing clients’ nutritional needs, developing meal plans, and educating individuals on healthy eating habits.

Advancing to a full-fledged nutritionist or dietitian role, professionals have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, public health organizations, or private practice. They may also choose to specialize in areas like sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, or weight management.

Experienced nutritionists may take on more senior roles, such as lead nutritionist or nutrition program director, where they oversee nutrition programs, manage teams of dietitians and assistants, and contribute to policy development. Engaging in ongoing education and obtaining specialized certifications can further enhance career prospects and expertise.

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a private practice is a common career milestone, providing services such as personalized nutrition counseling and wellness coaching. Some professionals also enter academia as lecturers or researchers or work in industry settings, developing new food products or dietary supplements.


The field of nutrition has seen a substantial shift toward personalized and preventative approaches to health care, which significantly affects the role of nutritionists. With a growing public interest in wellness, these specialists are increasingly recognized for their expertise in tailoring diet plans to individual health needs and preferences.

There’s a trend toward the integration of technology in this field as well, with the use of apps and software for meal planning and tracking nutritional intake. The demand for clinical nutritionists is also rising in response to the global increase in chronic diseases related to diet. Professionals in this role are expanding their services to cater to niches such as sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, and corporate wellness programs.

Employment projections

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides projections for dietitians and nutritionists together. According to their data, employment in this sector is projected to grow 7% through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by a heightened awareness of the role of food in preventing and treating illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Those who have professional certifications and specializations, particularly registered dietitians, are likely to have better job prospects due to increased demand for their expert guidance on healthy eating habits.


Nutritionist career tips

Soft skills and traits

Nutrition is an ever-changing field with a lot of misinformation. Take time to understand current trends and rumors making their way around on social media. Use your diet to learn more. Keep a food journal, try new recipes, and learn about unique cuisines and diets. Work on your bedside manner. Communication is everything in this role. Working with patients and clients can be challenging, especially if they make tough routine changes. Practice being encouraging and gentle.

Consider where you want to live. States all have different requirements for nutritionists, so if you plan to move in the future, check to see if you would need to acquire other degrees or certifications. Volunteer in your community. Working with nonprofits and community organizations can be a great networking opportunity and allow you to put your knowledge to good use and help more people.

Commonly required skills and qualifications

Keep organized files and notes. Having a system ahead of time that works for you is beneficial. Learn more about fitness and anatomy. These two fields can work hand in hand with nutrition to help people hit their health goals, and being connected with people in these fields can be very beneficial. Take a course in business finance. Many nutritionists want to venture out independently, so it’s essential to understand the basics of running your own business.

Pick a specialty or a few. The field of nutrition has such a broad reach, so choosing a specialty can help you become an expert in one area (or a few). Show your commitment to education. Take advantage of speakers or any opportunities to learn more. 

Develop a professional network

Professional networks are extremely important to most career paths. You’ll be able to find other nutritionists and learn about opportunities and new trends. It’s great to have others in your field that you can talk to. Here are a few to consider:

  • American Society for Nutrition (ASN)
  • National Association of Nutrition Professionals
  • Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
  • Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition
  • LinkedIn Groups
  • The Nutrition Network

Where the nutritionist jobs are

Top companies

  • Morrison Healthcare
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Compass Group
  • Dignity Health
  • Mercy

Top states

  • New York
  • Massachusetts
  • Ohio
  • Rhode Island
  • New Hampshire

Top job sites

  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • ZipRecruiter
  • Careerbuilder
  • Monster

FAQs

What is the difference between a nutritionist and a dietician?

The biggest difference between a dietician and a nutritionist is the licenses required. Dieticians require a higher level of education and certification and can work on more complicated medical diagnoses. Nutritionists tend to work with more general issues and larger groups of people. To become a dietician, you must register with the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

Can you become a nutritionist without a degree?

Requirements for nutritionists are different from state to state. Most locations require candidates to earn a bachelor’s degree, complete a number of hours of supervised training, and pass an exam to get licensed. There are a few states where you don’t need to receive a bachelor’s degree, but the majority require a degree.

Where does a nutritionist work?

Nutritionists work in most healthcare facilities to help consult with patients dealing with health issues. There are also jobs in the food industry, on the coaching staff and athletic facilities, and as private consultants and educators. 

How do I become a nutritionist?

To become a nutritionist, earn your bachelor’s degree and then check to see what your state requires to become a licensed nutritionist. Each state differs in the requirements, but there are usually a certain number of hours you need to work underneath a licensed nutritionist and get hands-on training.

What are the typical hours for a nutritionist?

Nutritionists typically work 40 hours a week. Schedules vary based on where they work and what their needs are. Some hospitals and long-term care facilities may require weekends or evenings occasionally to have someone on call to meet with patients. 

Does a nutritionist have to go to medical school?

Nutritionists do not need to attend medical school. They have a lot of biology expertise and work alongside doctors to help patients with their health goals, but they do not need to go to medical school.

What do nutritionists do on a typical workday?

A typical workday for a nutritionist will include reviewing files, assessing clients’ nutritional and health needs, developing meal plans, and reviewing them with the client. Depending on the workplace, there might also be consultations with educators or officials or some research work that is required.

What are the necessary skills to become a nutritionist?

Nutritionists must be knowledgeable in biology, dietary needs, and food science. Working with clients requires strong verbal and written communication skills and a sound organizational system. Patience and the ability to explain complicated things to people are also crucial because you’ll be working to help patients understand the importance of changing their diets.

Do nutritionists have to cook and prepare meals?

Nutritionists are not usually the ones preparing the meals, but a little experience in the kitchen doesn’t hurt. Their primary role is to plan the meals and put together dietary plans to fit their client’s needs.