Florida requires nutritionists to hold a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, complete 900 hours of supervised practice, and pass the CDR exam for licensure through the Dietetics and Nutrition Practice Council.
Florida’s nutrition field offers excellent career prospects with strong job growth and competitive salaries. The state requires specific licensing through the Dietetics and Nutrition Practice Council, which oversees the safe practice of nutritionists and dietitians. View how to become a registered dietitian in Florida here.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Florida
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Submit Your License Application in Florida
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain License and Continuing Education Requirements
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Florida
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Florida
To become a licensed nutritionist in Florida, you must possess a bachelor’s degree (minimum) from an accredited college or university. Your major course of study must be in one of the following areas:
- Dietetics – Core nutrition science and food management
- Food Management – Food service systems and nutrition
- Human Nutrition – Applied nutrition and metabolism
- Food and Nutrition – Comprehensive nutrition studies
The following bachelor’s and master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more about what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
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
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
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.
Gain Required Supervised Experience
Florida requires candidates to complete 900 hours of supervised practice in nutrition after completing their bachelor’s degree. This pre-professional experience can be satisfied through completion of an internship approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
The 900 hours must be distributed across three core areas:
| Practice Area | Required Hours | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Nutrition | 200 hours minimum | Medical nutrition therapy and patient counseling |
| Community Nutrition | 200 hours minimum | Public health nutrition and community programs |
| Food Service Systems Management | 200 hours minimum | Food service operations and management |
According to Florida Statutes, candidates must also complete a two-hour course related to the prevention of medical errors before they can become licensed to practice as a nutritionist in Florida.
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
All nutritionist candidates in Florida must take and pass the Registration Examination for Dietitians through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). This comprehensive exam tests knowledge in nutrition science, food service management, and clinical nutrition.
The examination process includes:
- Application Approval: The Dietetics and Nutrition Practice Council must first approve your examination application
- Exam Scheduling: CDR will contact approved applicants with available examination dates and study materials
- Exam Fee: $125 paid directly to ACT (CDR’s testing agency)
- Results Processing: Expect to receive your license within two weeks after CDR reports your passing score
Submit Your License Application in Florida
To obtain your nutritionist license in Florida, you must submit a complete application package to the Department of Health. The application process requires:
Required Documents and Fees
- Completed Application for Licensure by Examination
- Application fee: $100
- Initial license fee: $175.00 (both fees payable to the Department of Health)
- Official transcripts: Mailed directly from your university to the Council office
Submission Instructions
Submit all completed application materials and supporting documentation in the same envelope to:
Department of Health/Dietetics and Nutrition
P.O. Box 6330
Tallahassee, FL 32314
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Licensed nutritionists in Florida are authorized to provide comprehensive nutrition services, including nutrition assessment and counseling. Career opportunities span multiple sectors:
| Work Setting | Primary Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Facilities | Patient nutrition assessment and medical nutrition therapy | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Community Health Centers | Public health nutrition programs and education | $58,000 – $75,000 |
| Private Practice | Individual nutrition counseling and consulting | $45,000 – $95,000+ |
| Corporate Wellness | Employee wellness programs and nutrition education | $55,000 – $80,000 |
Florida Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2024, nutritionists in Florida earned a median salary of $71,890, with the top 10% in the field earning $86,330 or more. The field is expected to add 640 new jobs in Florida during the ten-year period leading up to 2032, bringing the total number of jobs to 5,120 by that time. That’s a job growth rate of 14.3% – compared with the national growth rate in this field of 6.6% over that same frame.
Maintain License and Continuing Education Requirements
Florida nutritionist licenses must be renewed biennially through the online renewal system. License maintenance requirements include:
Continuing Education Requirements
- Total CE hours: 30 hours during each biennial renewal period
- Home study: A Maximum of 20 hours may be completed through home study
- Renewal fee: $105 for each biennial period
First-Time Renewal Additional Requirements
- Medical error training: 2 hours minimum
- HIV/AIDS training: 3 hours minimum
Professional Organizations in Florida
Joining professional associations provides networking opportunities, continuing education, and career advancement resources:
Becoming a Health Coach in Florida
The Florida Department of Health has identified unhealthy weight as the top public health threat in the state, creating significant opportunities for health coaches. Key statistics driving this opportunity:
- 64% of Florida’s population is overweight or obese
- If current trends continue, 60% will be obese by 2030
- Obesity-related illnesses are expected to cost Floridians $34 billion over the next 20 years
Health coaches play crucial roles in addressing this public health challenge through:
- Teaching individuals about health and wellness
- Coaching individuals on turning knowledge into daily practice
- Encouraging those who feel tempted to give up
- Making referrals for those who need specialist care
Health Coach Education and Certification Options
Health coaching offers flexible educational pathways. Learn more about health coach career opportunities and certification requirements. Popular degree options in Florida include:
- Nutritional Sciences
- Public Health
- Applied Physiology and Kinesiology
- Health Education and Behaviors
The National Commission for Certifying Agencies currently accredits the American Council on Exercise (ACE) Health Coach certification program, offering three specialized tracks for fitness professionals, healthcare providers, and workplace wellness specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian in Florida?
Both nutritionists and registered dietitians in Florida must pass the CDR exam and hold licenses. Read our complete comparison of nutritionist vs dietitian requirements to understand the specific differences in scope of practice and educational pathways.
Can I practice nutrition counseling in Florida with just a certification?
No, Florida requires nutritionists to hold state licensure through the Dietetics and Nutrition Practice Council. Professional certifications alone do not authorize independent nutrition practice in the state.
How long does it take to become a licensed nutritionist in Florida?
The typical pathway takes 4-5 years: bachelor’s degree (4 years), supervised practice (6-12 months), plus exam preparation and application processing time.
What is the job outlook for nutritionists in Florida?
Florida’s nutrition job market is strong, with projected growth of 14.3% through 2032, more than double the national average. The state’s focus on obesity prevention creates additional opportunities.
Can I complete supervised practice hours while working?
Yes, many ACEND-approved internship programs offer part-time or flexible scheduling options. However, you must complete the full 900 hours with proper supervision regardless of schedule.
Key Takeaways
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, or related field from an accredited institution
- Experience: 900 hours of supervised practice across clinical, community, and food service areas
- Examination: Pass the CDR exam with Council approval
- Licensing: Apply through the Florida Department of Health with the required application and license fees
- Salary: Median $71,890 with strong 14.3% job growth projected
- Continuing Education: 30 hours biennial requirement for license maintenance
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Florida?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed nutritionist in Florida. Explore accredited nutrition degree programs and begin your journey in this rewarding healthcare profession.
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
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
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.
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.
