Missouri requires licensed dietitians for nutritional counseling with insurance reimbursement. You need a bachelor’s degree with specific coursework, 900 hours of clinical experience, and must pass the Registered Dietitian exam to practice nutrition therapy in Missouri.
Interest in healthy eating and the battle against obesity has increased dramatically in the US in recent years, making nutrition careers increasingly popular across Missouri. The nutrition profession offers a rewarding path for those passionate about helping others achieve optimal health through evidence-based dietary guidance and counseling.
Missouri is one of 35 states that mandate that nutritional counseling, evaluations, and therapy can only be performed by licensed dietitians. This means unlicensed nutritionists won’t receive government or private insurance reimbursements for personal dietary counseling. View how to become a registered dietitian in Missouri for the most comprehensive career path, or explore nutritionist requirements by state to compare Missouri’s regulations with those of other states.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Missouri
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass the required Examination
- Submit Your Certification/License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Certification/License and Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Missouri
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Missouri
To become a licensed dietitian in Missouri, you must be at least 21 years old and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher that incorporates specific coursework requirements. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics sets the educational standards that Missouri recognizes for licensure.
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.
Required Coursework for Missouri Dietitian Licensure
| Subject Area | Credit Hours | Specific Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Sciences | 9 semester hours | Microbiology, Human Anatomy and Physiology |
| Chemistry | 6 semester hours | Including Biochemistry |
| Behavioral Social Sciences | 6 semester hours | Psychology, Sociology, Counseling Psychology, Educational Psychology |
| Management | 6 semester hours | Institutional Management, Food Service Management |
| Food and Nutrition | 25 semester hours | Human Nutrition, Advanced Nutrition, Applied Human Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Food Science, Nutrition through the Lifecycle, Diet Therapy, Medical Dietetics |
Missouri Colleges Offering Nutrition/Dietetics Programs
Missouri has approximately eight colleges and universities offering accredited degree programs in nutrition and dietetics:
- Cape Girardeau – Southeast Missouri State University
- Columbia – University of Missouri
- Maryville – Northwest Missouri State University
- Point Lookout – College of the Ozarks
- Springfield – Missouri State University
- St. Louis – Saint Louis University and Fontbonne University
- Warrensburg – University of Central Missouri
Gain Required Supervised Experience
Missouri requires 900 hours of clinical experience to qualify for licensure as a dietitian. The way these hours are fulfilled often depends on the school you attend and the program structure.
Most accredited nutrition programs include supervised practice as part of their curriculum through:
- Dietetic Internships (DI) – Coordinated programs that combine coursework with supervised practice
- Full-time supervised practice – Typically 10 months of full-time experience
- Part-time arrangements – Usually 14 months part-time or other combinations to reach 900 hours
- Graduate programs – Master’s degree programs often integrate supervised practice hours
Supervised experience must be completed under the guidance of registered dietitians in approved healthcare facilities, community nutrition programs, or food service operations.
Pass the Required Examination
You must pass the Registered Dietitian examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge across all areas of dietetic practice.
Missouri RD Exam Details
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Questions | 125 of 140 multiple-choice questions must be answered |
| Time Limit | 3 hours |
| Fee | $200 |
| Testing Centers | PSI testing centers in Kirksville and St. Louis |
Exam Content Areas
- Food and Nutrition – Nutrition science, food composition, dietary guidelines
- Nutritional Care Processes – Assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring
- Counseling and Communication Abilities – Patient education, behavior change techniques
- Food Service Systems Management – Operations, personnel, and financial management
Submit Your Certification/License Application
Once you have completed your Education, gained supervised experience, and passed the RD exam, you can apply for licensure through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration.
Application requirements include:
- Application fee – $50 (current Education)
- Proof of Education – Official transcripts showing completion of required coursework
- Verification of supervised practice – Documentation of 900 clinical hours
- RD exam results – Passing score on the CDR examination
- Background check – As required by Missouri state law
You can find detailed information about the licensing process and online application forms on the Missouri Division of Professional Registration’s website.
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
As a licensed dietitian in Missouri, you can work in diverse settings providing nutritional counseling, program development, and Education. You can either work for an employer or establish a private practice.
Career Opportunities in Missouri
Licensed dietitians in Missouri can work in numerous healthcare and community settings:
- Healthcare Facilities – Hospitals, medical clinics, rehabilitation centers
- Long-term Care – Nursing homes, senior centers, independent-living facilities
- Education – Schools, school districts, universities
- Community Health – Wellness centers, public health departments
- Food Industry – Food manufacturers, processing companies, marketing research
- Sports and Fitness – Major sports teams, fitness centers, athletic programs
- Specialized Care – Kidney dialysis centers, eating disorder treatment facilities
Specialization Opportunities
Missouri dietitians can pursue advanced certifications in specialized areas:
- Sports Dietetics – Working with athletes and active populations
- Pediatric Nutrition – Specializing in child and adolescent nutrition
- Clinical Nutrition – Advanced medical nutrition therapy
- Community Nutrition – Public health and population-based interventions
Maintain Certification/License and Continuing Education
Missouri dietitian licenses must be renewed every five years upon completion of the required continuing professional Education.
License Renewal Requirements
- Continuing Education – 75 hours of continuing professional Education over 5 years
- Renewal Fee – As set by the Missouri Division of Professional Registration
- Good Standing – No disciplinary actions or violations
- Updated Contact Information – Current address and employment information
Continuing Education can be obtained through workshops, conferences, online courses, and professional development programs approved by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
Missouri Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Missouri dietitians and nutritionists earned an average salary of $62,120 as of May 2024. Regional variations show higher earning potential in metropolitan areas. For comprehensive salary data across all states and specializations, please view our complete nutritionist and dietitian salary guide.
| Location | Average Annual Salary | Employment Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri Statewide | $62,120 | Growing demand |
| Columbia Metro Area | $66,340 | University and healthcare growth |
| Kansas City Metro | $67,410 | Strong healthcare sector |
The nutrition profession is experiencing steady growth nationwide, with increasing recognition of the importance of nutrition in preventing chronic diseases and promoting overall health.
Becoming a Health Coach in Missouri
For those interested in nutrition and wellness who seek an alternative to traditional dietitian licensure, health coaching offers an additional pathway to help individuals achieve their health goals.
Missouri has recognized the value of health coaches, particularly through workplace wellness initiatives. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services supports a “Worksite Challenge” that aims to promote behavioral changes in physical activity, nutrition, and overall wellness among corporate employees across the state.
Health Coach Education Options
Health coaches in Missouri have flexibility in their educational background, with employers looking for degrees in:
- Exercise Physiology – Understanding of physical activity and fitness
- Nursing – Healthcare background and patient care skills
- Nutrition and Dietetics – Comprehensive nutrition knowledge
- Health Education – Wellness promotion and education skills
- Counseling – Behavioral change and communication techniques
- Public Health – Population health and community wellness
- Social Work – Holistic approach to individual and family health
Professional Certification for Health Coaches
While not required by law, professional certification enhances credibility and job prospects:
- American Council on Exercise (ACE) – Offers Health Coach Certification accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
- International Coach Federation (ICF) – Provides general coaching credentials applicable to health coaching
- National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC) – Specialized certification for health and wellness coaching
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practice nutrition in Missouri without a license as a dietitian?
Missouri law restricts nutrition counseling, evaluation, and therapy to licensed dietitians. Unlicensed nutritionists cannot receive insurance reimbursements and are limited in the scope of services they can provide.
How long does it take to become a licensed dietitian in Missouri?
Typically 4-6 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree plus 6-18 months for supervised practice (depending on program structure). Some students complete both simultaneously in coordinated programs.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian in Missouri?
In Missouri, only licensed dietitians are authorized to provide medical nutrition therapy and receive reimbursement from insurance providers. The term “nutritionist” isn’t protected, but meaningful nutrition practice requires dietitian licensure.
Can I get my supervised practice hours in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri has accredited dietetic internship programs and healthcare facilities that provide supervised practice opportunities. Many students complete their 900 hours of training at hospitals, clinics, and community nutrition programs in Missouri.
What is the cost of obtaining a dietitian license in Missouri?
The initial application fee is $50, plus examination costs ($200 for the RD exam). Renewal every 5 years requires additional fees, as well as continuing education expenses.
Key Takeaways
Missouri requires dietitian licensure for professional nutrition practice, making it essential to have proper Education, supervised experience, and examination requirements. Investing in becoming a licensed dietitian opens doors to diverse career opportunities, with competitive salaries averaging $62,120 statewide. For those seeking alternatives, health coaching provides another pathway to help others achieve wellness goals while building a meaningful career in Missouri’s growing health and wellness sector.
Ready to start your nutrition career in Missouri?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed dietitian and discover accredited programs that can help you achieve your career goals.
Find Accredited Nutrition Programs
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 and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
