To become a licensed nutritionist in New Mexico, you must earn a master’s degree in nutrition from an accredited program OR obtain a valid membership in ABCN or ASN (which can substitute for the master’s degree requirement), pass the CDR examination, and apply through the New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board. The process typically takes 4-6 years with median salaries of $68,830 annually.
The New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board licenses both dietitians and nutritionists, making it one of the states that actively regulates nutrition professionals. With New Mexico’s adult obesity rate reaching 28.4% and diabetes affecting 11.5% of the population (ranking 11th highest nationally), there’s growing demand for qualified nutrition professionals who can help address these health challenges.
If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in New Mexico, you’ll need to meet specific education and examination requirements that differ from other states. The good news is that New Mexico offers multiple pathways to licensure, including options for those with existing professional degrees. You can also explore becoming a registered dietitian in New Mexico for additional career opportunities in clinical settings.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in New Mexico
- 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 New Mexico
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in New Mexico
New Mexico requires nutritionist candidates to meet one of several education pathways for full nutritionist licensure. While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum entry point for nutrition careers, a master’s or doctoral degree is required for full nutritionist licensing. Alternative pathways through professional membership organizations can substitute for the advanced degree requirement.
Master’s or Doctoral Degree Path
To qualify as a licensed nutritionist in New Mexico, you must possess a master’s or doctoral degree from an institution accredited by a member of the Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation in one of these majors:
- Nutrition education – Focuses on teaching nutrition principles and behavior change
- Foods and nutrition – Combines food science with nutritional applications
- Human nutrition – Emphasizes metabolism and nutritional needs across the lifespan
- Public health nutrition – Addresses population-level nutrition interventions
Many students begin with a bachelor’s degree in a related field before pursuing their master’s. Nutrition degree programs provide the foundational knowledge needed for advanced study.
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.
Professional Membership Alternative Pathways
New Mexico also recognizes current, valid membership in specific professional organizations as an alternative to the master’s degree requirement:
| Organization | Requirements | Additional Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| American Clinical Board of Nutrition Certification (ABCN) | Professional degree + 300 hours nutrition education + 2 years practice experience | Must write a publishable article/paper on nutrition + pass ABCN examination |
| American Society for Nutrition (ASN) | Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in nutrition or a related field | Must demonstrate leadership in nutrition as educator, speaker, advocate, or administrator |
Gain Required Supervised Experience
New Mexico offers a separate license type called “Nutrition Associate” for those who don’t yet meet the full nutritionist requirements. This is a distinct pathway with different qualifications than the full nutritionist license described above.
Nutrition Associate License (Separate License Type)
If you’re pursuing the nutrition associate pathway, you’ll need to complete requirements that qualify you for an internship or equivalent program approved by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
Nutrition Associate Requirements
To qualify as a licensed nutrition associate in New Mexico, you must possess:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university
- Completion of requirements needed to qualify for an internship or equivalent program approved by the CDR
- Verification from a program director confirming your eligibility for a CDR-approved program
The supervised experience component ensures you gain practical, hands-on training in nutrition counseling, assessment, and intervention strategies under the guidance of licensed professionals.
Pass Required Examination
All nutrition professionals seeking licensure in New Mexico must pass an examination related to entry-level nutrition practice and nutrition care services. Currently, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) examination is the only exam accepted by the New Mexico Board for licensure.
CDR Examination Requirements
Currently, the required examination for registration as a dietitian, which is developed and administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), is required for licensure in New Mexico. This comprehensive exam covers:
- Principles of dietetics – Foundational nutrition science and practice
- Nutrition care process – Assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and monitoring
- Food service management – Operations, safety, and quality assurance
- Prevention and treatment – Medical nutrition therapy applications
Alternative Recognition
New Mexico also recognizes candidates who are already licensed in another state that has standards for licensure no less stringent than those in New Mexico. This reciprocity option can streamline the process for experienced professionals relocating to the state.
Submit Your Certification/License Application
Once you’ve met the education and examination requirements, you’ll need to submit a comprehensive application to the New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board.
Application Requirements for Nutritionist License
Candidates for nutritionist licenses must submit:
| Document | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Completed Application | Signed application form | New Mexico Board |
| Application Fee | $200 total ($150 initial license + $50 application fee)* | Payment to Board |
| Official Transcripts | Verifying degree, mailed directly from the institution | College/University |
| Professional Membership Proof | ABCN or ASN membership documentation (if applicable) | Professional Organization |
| Previous Licenses | Copy of any current or previous licenses from other states | Other State Boards |
Application Requirements for Nutrition Associate License
Nutrition associate candidates must also provide:
- Verification statement completed by a program director confirming CDR internship eligibility
- Employment information form documenting supervision by a New Mexico licensed dietitian or nutritionist
Submission Process
All completed applications and documentation must be mailed to:
Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board
P.O. Box 25101
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505
*Fees are subject to change. Verify current amounts with the New Mexico Board before submitting your application.
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Licensed nutritionists in New Mexico work in diverse settings, addressing the state’s significant health challenges, including high rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related conditions.
Career Settings
New Mexico nutritionists find opportunities in:
- Healthcare facilities – Hospitals, clinics, and medical centers throughout Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces
- Public health departments – County and state health agencies focusing on community nutrition
- Schools and universities – Educational institutions promoting healthy eating habits
- Private practice – Independent consulting and counseling services
- Corporate wellness – Employee health programs and workplace nutrition initiatives
Professional Organizations in New Mexico
Joining professional associations provides networking, continuing education, and career advancement opportunities:
- New Mexico Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – State affiliate providing local networking and education
- New Mexico School Nutrition Association – Focused on school-based nutrition programs
- American Nutrition Association – National organization promoting nutrition science
- National Association of Nutrition Professionals – Supporting holistic and integrative nutrition approaches
Maintain Certification/License and Continuing Education
New Mexico requires ongoing professional development to ensure nutritionists stay current with evolving science and best practices.
License Renewal Requirements
All licenses in New Mexico are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. To renew your license, you must:
- Complete the online renewal application through the New Mexico licensing portal
- Pay the renewal fee of $75
- Meet continuing education requirements – Complete at least 15 clock hours of continuing education OR maintain current registration with the CDR
This means you can satisfy the continuing education requirement in one of two ways: either accumulate 15 hours of approved continuing education activities or maintain your active CDR registration, which has its own continuing education requirements.
Continuing Education Options
Acceptable continuing education activities include:
- Professional conferences – Annual meetings and specialized symposiums
- Online courses – Accredited programs covering current nutrition topics
- Workshops and seminars – Hands-on training in specific areas of practice
- Academic coursework – Graduate-level nutrition and health-related courses
New Mexico Nutritionist Salary and Employment Expectations
The financial outlook for nutritionists in New Mexico reflects growing demand for nutrition professionals as the state addresses significant health challenges.
Salary Information
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for nutritionists in New Mexico was $68,830 as of May 2024. This figure represents competitive compensation for the region, with potential for higher earnings in specialized roles or private practice settings.
For comprehensive salary comparisons across different states and practice settings, explore our detailed nutritionist salary guide.
Job Market Projections
The employment outlook for nutritionists in New Mexico is promising:
- Job Growth – 12.2% projected increase through 2032
- Annual Openings – Approximately 40 job opportunities per year due to growth, retirements, and turnover
- Demand Drivers – Rising obesity rates, aging population, and increased focus on preventive healthcare
Becoming a Health Coach in New Mexico
For those interested in nutrition and wellness but seeking a different career path, health coach certification offers an alternative route to helping people improve their health through lifestyle changes.
Health Challenges in New Mexico
New Mexico faces significant health challenges that create opportunities for health coaches:
- Obesity epidemic – Adult obesity rate has risen from 8.1% in 1990 to 28.4% in 2016
- Diabetes prevalence – 11.5% of adults affected, ranking New Mexico 11th highest nationally
- Childhood obesity – Some improvement noted, with rates dropping from 12% to 11.3% among low-income 2-4 year olds
- Chronic diseases – High rates of asthma, heart disease, stroke, and alcohol-related conditions
Health Coach Opportunities
Health coaches in New Mexico work in various capacities:
- One-on-one coaching – Personalized lifestyle and nutrition planning
- Community programs – Group wellness initiatives and education
- Healthcare integration – Supporting medical treatment with lifestyle interventions
- Corporate wellness – Employee health and productivity programs
Education and Certification
Health coaching positions typically require:
- Bachelor’s degree in health and wellness coaching or a health-related field
- Professional certification from organizations like ACE, ICF, or specialized programs
- No state licensure required – providing more flexibility in practice approaches
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed nutritionist in New Mexico?
The typical timeline is 4-6 years, including a bachelor’s degree (4 years) and a master’s degree (2 years), though the master’s requirement can be completed concurrently or afterwards. Alternative pathways through professional membership may have different timelines depending on your existing qualifications.
Can I practice nutrition in New Mexico without a license?
New Mexico law permits individuals to provide general nutritional information about food and vitamins, but only licensed nutritionists and dietitians can legally use the titles “nutritionist” or “dietitian” or provide medical nutrition therapy. Unlicensed individuals cannot use these professional titles or provide clinical nutrition services.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a nutrition associate license?
These are two separate license types in New Mexico. Nutritionist licenses require a master’s degree or valid membership in ABCN/ASN, while nutrition associate licenses require a bachelor’s degree plus CDR internship eligibility. Both require the same CDR examination and have similar renewal requirements, but represent different levels of qualification.
Is the CDR exam difficult to pass?
The CDR examination is comprehensive and requires thorough preparation. Success rates vary, but proper study using official materials and review courses significantly improves pass rates. The exam covers nutrition science, medical nutrition therapy, food service management, and professional practice.
How much does it cost to become licensed in New Mexico?
Initial licensing costs $200 ($150 license fee + $50 application fee), plus annual renewal fees of $75. Additional costs include education expenses, examination fees, and continuing education requirements. Verify current fee amounts with the New Mexico Board, as these may change.
Can I transfer my license from another state?
New Mexico may recognize licenses from other states with equally stringent requirements. You’ll still need to submit an application and provide documentation, but you may be exempt from retaking the examination depending on your current credentials.
Key Takeaways
- Two license types available – Full Nutritionist license (requires master’s degree or ABCN/ASN membership) and Nutrition Associate license (requires bachelor’s degree + CDR internship eligibility)
- CDR examination required – This is currently the only exam accepted by the New Mexico Board
- Annual renewal mandatory – 15 continuing education hours OR current CDR registration required
- Strong job outlook – 12.2% growth projected with approximately 40 annual openings*
- Competitive salary – $68,830 average annual earnings in New Mexico*
- Health coaching alternative – No licensure required, offering flexible career options
*Salary and job growth figures should be verified against the latest BLS data, as these statistics are updated annually.
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in New Mexico?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed nutritionist by exploring accredited degree programs that meet New Mexico’s requirements. With the state’s growing focus on addressing obesity and chronic disease, qualified nutrition professionals are more needed than ever.
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.
