To legally practice dietetics in Kansas, you need a Licensed Dietitian (LD) credential, which requires becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) first. This involves earning a graduate degree (master’s or higher as of 2024), completing supervised practice, and passing the CDR exam. Median salary is $68,710 annually.
If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in Kansas, it’s essential to understand that Kansas licenses dietitians under the Dietitians’ Licensing Act. To provide individualized nutrition care services in the Sunflower State, you’ll need a Licensed Dietitian (LD) credential, which requires first becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
Kansas offers diverse opportunities for nutrition professionals, ranging from urban centers like Wichita and Kansas City to rural communities that need nutrition services. While the title “nutritionist” itself isn’t separately licensed in Kansas, practicing dietetics or providing nutrition assessment and counseling requires proper licensure. This comprehensive guide walks you through the exact steps to become a nutrition professional in Kansas, including education requirements, licensing pathways, salary expectations, and career opportunities. For those specifically interested in the registered dietitian pathway, view our guide on how to become a registered dietitian in Kansas.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutrition Education Requirements in Kansas
- Complete Supervised Practice Requirements
- Pass the CDR Examination and Obtain Kansas Licensure
- Choose Your Nutrition Specialization
- Explore Career Opportunities in Kansas
- Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Kansas
Complete Nutrition Education Requirements in Kansas
To practice dietetics in Kansas and obtain a Licensed Dietitian (LD) status, you must first become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). As of January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) requires all new RDN candidates to hold a graduate degree (master’s or doctorate) from a regionally accredited institution.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
Arizona State University - Online offers an Online Masters in Medical Nutrition
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Educational Pathway Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Complete an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) or Coordinated Program
- Graduate Degree (Required for 2024+ graduates): Master’s or doctoral degree in any field from an accredited institution
- Alternative Pathway: Those with degrees in other fields can complete an ACEND-accredited Future Education Model Graduate Program
Kansas ACEND-Accredited Programs:
- Kansas State University: Offers an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) at the undergraduate level and a Master of Science in Dietetics with Dietetic Internship (MSDI)
- University of Kansas Medical Center: Provides an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship graduate certificate program
Core Coursework Required:
- Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Food Science and Safety
- Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Community Nutrition
- Lifecycle Nutrition (pediatric through geriatric)
- Research Methods and Statistics
- Nutrition Counseling and Education
Complete Supervised Practice Requirements
Kansas licensure requires completion of an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program. This is mandatory for practicing dietetics or providing nutrition care services in Kansas, as the state’s Dietitians’ Licensing Act requires proper credentials.
Supervised Practice Options:
- Dietetic Internship (DI): Stand-alone program completed after your degree, typically 900-1,200 hours over 6-12 months
- Coordinated Program (CP): Combines coursework with supervised practice
- Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway (ISPP): For those meeting specific educational requirements
- Kansas State MSDI Program: Provides 1,075 hours of supervised practice integrated with master’s coursework
Supervised Practice Settings in Kansas:
- Clinical rotations at hospitals (Via Christi Health, University of Kansas Health System)
- Community nutrition sites and WIC programs
- Food service management facilities
- Corporate wellness programs
- Public health departments
Pass the CDR Examination and Obtain Kansas Licensure
After completing your education and supervised practice, you must pass the national Registration Examination for Dietitians to become an RDN, then apply for Kansas licensure to practice legally in the state.
CDR Examination Details:
- Computer-adaptive test with 125-145 questions
- 3 hours total testing time
- Scaled passing score of 25
- Administered through Pearson VUE testing centers
Kansas Licensed Dietitian (LD) Requirements:
- Hold current RDN credential from CDR
- Apply to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services
- Pay licensing fees
- Complete continuing education requirements for renewal.
Alternative Certifications for Non-Clinical Practice:
| Certification | Education Required | Experience Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) | Graduate degree | 1,000 supervised hours | Advanced practice, research |
| Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN) | Post-graduate nutrition studies | Varies by program | Clinical focus |
| Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) | High school diploma | None | General wellness coaching |
Note: Under Kansas law, practicing dietetics or providing individualized nutrition assessment and counseling requires LD licensure. The Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists offers the CNS credential for advanced practitioners.
Choose Your Nutrition Specialization
Kansas nutrition professionals often specialize to enhance their expertise and marketability. Specializations align with the state’s health priorities and the needs of its population.
In-Demand Specializations in Kansas:
Sports Nutrition: Work with Kansas collegiate athletes, professional sports teams, or fitness centers. Consider additional certification through the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN). Learn more about sports nutrition careers.
Pediatric Nutrition: Address childhood obesity concerns (Kansas youth obesity rate approximately 11.7%, ranking 43rd among states). Positions available in schools, pediatric clinics, and Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Geriatric Nutrition: Serve Kansas’s growing elderly population in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies.
Agricultural Nutrition: Unique to Kansas’s farming heritage, focusing on farm-to-table nutrition education and sustainable food systems.
Corporate Wellness: Design nutrition programs for Kansas employers like Cargill, Koch Industries, and Spirit AeroSystems.
Explore Career Opportunities in Kansas
Kansas offers diverse career paths for licensed dietitians and nutrition professionals across various sectors, including healthcare, education, business, and government.
Primary Employment Settings:
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities employ the majority of Kansas dietitians
- Government Agencies: Kansas Department of Health and Environment, WIC programs, and Veterans Affairs facilities
- Educational Institutions: K-12 schools, colleges, and universities for both teaching and food service management
- Private Practice: Growing opportunities for entrepreneurial practitioners, especially in urban areas
- Corporate Settings: Employee wellness programs, food manufacturers, and pharmaceutical companies
Daily Responsibilities May Include:
- Conducting nutritional assessments and developing medical nutrition therapy plans
- Providing individual counseling and group education
- Collaborating with healthcare teams on patient care
- Developing nutrition policies and programs
- Conducting research and analyzing nutritional data
- Writing reports and educational materials
Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
Kansas requires licensed dietitians to complete continuing education to renew their licenses. Additionally, maintaining RDN credentials requires ongoing professional development through CDR’s Professional Development Portfolio system.
Kansas LD Renewal Requirements:
- Renew license every two years
- Complete the required continuing education hours
- Maintain an active RDN credential
- Submit renewal application and fees
Continuing Education Options in Kansas:
- Kansas Dietetic Association conferences and workshops
- Online courses through CDR-approved providers
- University extension programs
- Professional webinars and podcasts
- Peer-reviewed journal reading programs
- Specialty certification programs
Stay current with Kansas-specific nutrition initiatives through the Kansas Health Foundation and review the requirements in other states if you are considering reciprocity.
Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Kansas
Health coaching represents an alternative pathway for those interested in wellness without pursuing the licensed dietitian credential. Health coaches focus on behavior change and lifestyle modification rather than medical nutrition therapy, which requires LD licensure in Kansas.
Health Coach Certification Options:
- ACE Health Coach Certification: NCCA-accredited certification exam requiring preparation through approved education programs
- National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC): Requires completion of an approved training program and documentation of coaching sessions.
- Institute for Integrative Nutrition: Popular online program offering holistic health coaching certification
Health Coaching inthe Kansas Context:
From 2014 to 2017, the University of Kansas Health System received a $12.5 million Healthcare Innovation Award to establish the Kansas Heart and Stroke Collaborative, which included health coaching components. Today, the Care Collaborative continues population health work, including health coaching functions to reach underserved communities.
Health coaches in Kansas typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, with the potential for higher earnings in private practice or corporate settings. Unlike licensed dietitians, health coaches cannot provide medical nutrition therapy or work in specific clinical settings requiring LD credentials.
Kansas Nutritionist and Dietitian Salary and Job Market
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024 data, dietitians and nutritionists in Kansas earn competitive salaries that reflect the state’s cost of living and demand for nutrition services.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $47,030 | $22.61 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $68,710 | $33.03 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $89,470 | $43.01 |
Job Growth Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth nationally for dietitian and nutritionist positions through 2032. Kansas follows similar trends, with increasing demand driven by an aging population, focus on preventive healthcare, and rising rates of chronic diseases.
Metropolitan Area Variations: Salaries may vary across Kansas metropolitan areas. The Kansas City and Wichita metropolitan areas typically offer higher salaries compared to rural regions, although cost-of-living differences should be taken into account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to work as a nutritionist in the state of Kansas?
To practice dietetics or provide individualized nutrition assessment and counseling in Kansas, you need a Licensed Dietitian (LD) credential. The title “nutritionist” itself isn’t separately licensed, but providing nutrition care services requires proper licensure under the Dietitians’ Licensing Act.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian in Kansas?
In Kansas, only Licensed Dietitians can legally practice dietetics, which includes medical nutrition therapy and individualized nutrition counseling. The term “nutritionist” isn’t regulated, but providing nutrition care services requires LD credentials. Dietitians must complete ACEND-accredited programs, supervised practice, and pass the CDR exam.
How long does it take to become a licensed dietitian in the state of Kansas?
Typically 5-6 years: a 4-year bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for a master’s degree (required for 2024+ graduates), plus 6-12 months for supervised practice. After passing the CDR exam, Kansas licensure can be obtained within a few weeks.
Can I become a nutritionist through online education?
Yes, many accredited universities offer online nutrition degrees that are accepted for licensure in Kansas. Ensure the program is ACEND-accredited for the dietitian pathway. Programs like online nutrition degree options provide flexibility for working professionals.
What are the new educational requirements for dietitians?
As of January 1, 2024, all new RDN candidates must hold a graduate degree (master’s or doctorate) from a regionally accredited institution, in addition to completing an ACEND-accredited program and supervised practice.
Do Kansas nutritionists need malpractice insurance?
While not legally required, professional liability insurance is strongly recommended for licensed dietitians, especially those in private practice. Coverage typically costs $200-$500 annually and protects against claims of professional negligence.
Can nutritionists in Kansas accept insurance?
Insurance reimbursement for nutrition services typically requires LD/RDN credentials. Some insurance plans cover medical nutrition therapy when provided by licensed dietitians. Private pay and health savings account models are common alternatives for non-licensed practitioners.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas requires Licensed Dietitian (LD) credentials to practice dietetics or provide nutrition care services.
- New RDN candidates (2024+) must hold a graduate degree plus complete an ACEND-accredited program.s
- Median salary of $68,710 according to the BLS May 2024 data
- K-State offers DPD and MSDI programs; KUMC offers a dietetic internship
- Health coaching provides an alternative pathway for general wellness (not medical nutrition therapy)
- Continuing education is required for maintaining LD licensure and RDN credentials
- Multiple career paths are available, from clinical to corporate settings
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Kansas?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed dietitian or nutrition professional in Kansas. Connect with ACEND-accredited programs that match your career goals and schedule. Request free information from multiple schools to compare programs, costs, and financial aid options.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
Arizona State University - Online offers an Online Masters in Medical Nutrition
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians and nutritionists reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
