Colorado doesn’t require specific licensing to become a nutritionist, but most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or related field and professional certification. The process typically takes 4-6 years including education and certification.
Starting a career as a nutritionist in Colorado opens doors to a rewarding profession focused on helping others achieve optimal health through proper nutrition. Unlike many states, Colorado doesn’t mandate specific licensing for nutritionists, giving you flexibility in your educational and certification choices. However, most employers still prefer candidates with formal education and professional certification.
Colorado’s health-conscious population and growing wellness industry create excellent opportunities for nutrition professionals. From Denver’s bustling healthcare centers to mountain community wellness clinics, nutritionists play vital roles in promoting healthy lifestyles across the state.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Colorado
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass Required Examination
- Submit Your Certification/License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Certification/License and Continuing Education
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Colorado
While Colorado doesn’t require specific education credentials to practice as a nutritionist, most employers expect at least a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, food science, or a related field. This educational foundation provides the scientific knowledge necessary to offer credible nutrition advice.
Associate Degree Options:
Many nutrition professionals start with an associate degree, which typically takes 2 years to complete. These programs cover basic nutrition science, food safety, and introductory health concepts. Associate degree graduates often work in entry-level positions at fitness centers, wellness clinics, or as nutrition assistants.
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.
Bachelor’s Degree Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, food science, or a related field typically requires 4 years of full-time study. Core coursework includes:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Biochemistry and organic chemistry
- Microbiology and food science
- Nutrition science and metabolism
- Community nutrition and public health
- Food service management
- Research methods and statistics
Colorado Universities with Accredited Nutrition Programs:
The Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognizes five universities with accredited nutrition programs:
- Colorado State University (Fort Collins) – Offers comprehensive nutrition and dietetics programs
- Johnson & Wales University (Denver) – Focuses on culinary nutrition and food service
- Metropolitan State University of Denver – Provides flexible scheduling options
- University of Colorado at Colorado Springs – Emphasizes research and clinical nutrition
- University of Northern Colorado (Greeley) – Strong community nutrition focus
Master’s Degree Advantages:
While not required, a master’s degree can significantly enhance career prospects and earning potential. Advanced degrees typically focus on specialized areas like:
- Clinical nutrition and medical nutrition therapy
- Sports nutrition and performance
- Public health nutrition and policy
- Nutrition research and education
| Degree Level | Duration | Career Opportunities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Nutrition assistant, wellness coach, fitness center nutrition advisor | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | Nutritionist, community educator, corporate wellness coordinator | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| Master’s Degree | 2 years (additional) | Clinical nutritionist, research specialist, program director | $65,000 – $85,000+ |
Gain Required Supervised Experience
While Colorado doesn’t mandate supervised experience for nutritionists, gaining practical experience significantly improves job prospects and professional competency. Many employers prefer candidates with hands-on experience in nutrition counseling, program development, or clinical settings.
Internship Opportunities:
Colorado hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers offer internship programs for nutrition students and graduates. These experiences provide valuable exposure to:
- Client consultation and assessment techniques
- Meal planning and dietary analysis
- Working with diverse populations and health conditions
- Professional communication and documentation
- Interdisciplinary healthcare team collaboration
Volunteer Experience:
Volunteering offers excellent opportunities to build experience while giving back to the community. Consider volunteering at:
- Community health fairs and screening events
- Food banks and nutrition assistance programs
- Senior centers and assisted living facilities
- Youth sports programs and school wellness initiatives
- Non-profit organizations focused on health promotion
Entry-Level Employment:
Many nutrition graduates start in entry-level positions that provide on-the-job training and experience:
- Nutrition assistant at hospitals or clinics
- Wellness coordinator for corporate programs
- Health educator for community organizations
- Nutrition counselor at fitness centers or spas
Pass the Required Examination
While Colorado doesn’t require state licensing examinations for nutritionists, professional certification examinations can significantly enhance credibility and job prospects.
Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Examination:
The CDR examination is specifically for registered dietitian candidates who have completed an ACEND-accredited dietetics program and supervised practice hours. This pathway leads to RD/RDN credentials, not general nutritionist certification.
Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS) Examination:
The BCNS offers the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) credential, which many Colorado nutritionists pursue. Requirements include:
- Master’s degree in nutrition or a related field
- 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience
- Passing the CNS examination
- Continuing education requirements
Other Professional Certifications:
Various organizations offer specialized certifications relevant to Colorado nutritionists:
- Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) – Advanced clinical nutrition credential
- Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN) – Focus on therapeutic nutrition
- Certified Nutrition Consultant (CNC) – General nutrition counseling
- Sports Nutrition Certification – Athletic performance and nutrition
Submit Your Certification/License Application
Since Colorado doesn’t require state licensing for nutritionists, this step focuses on obtaining professional certifications that enhance credibility and career prospects.
Professional Certification Applications:
Most certification bodies require detailed applications, including:
- Educational Transcripts – Official transcripts from accredited institutions
- Experience Documentation – Detailed logs of supervised practice hours
- Professional References – Letters from supervisors or colleagues
- Background Check – Clean criminal background verification
- Application Fees – Typically ranging from $200-$500
- Examination Fees – Additional fees for certification examinations
Timeline Considerations:
Plan for certification application processing times of 4-8 weeks. Submit applications well in advance of desired start dates or employment deadlines.
Maintaining Professional Status:
Once certified, nutritionists must maintain their credentials through:
- Continuing education credits (typically 20-40 hours annually)
- Professional development activities
- Renewal fees and documentation
- Adherence to professional ethics codes
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Colorado’s diverse healthcare landscape and health-conscious population create numerous opportunities for nutrition professionals across various settings.
Healthcare Settings:
Colorado’s major medical centers employ nutritionists in various capacities:
- Denver Health Medical Center – Clinical nutrition and patient education
- Presbyterian/St. Joseph Hospital – Therapeutic nutrition and discharge planning
- Children’s Hospital Colorado (Aurora) – Pediatric nutrition and family counseling
- National Jewish Health – Respiratory health and specialized nutrition
- UCHealth System – Multiple locations with diverse nutrition roles
Community and Public Health:
Public health nutritionists work to improve community nutrition through:
- County health departments are developing nutrition programs
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) nutrition counseling
- School district meal program consultation
- Community health center nutrition education
- Non-profit organization wellness initiatives
Corporate and Wellness Industry:
Colorado’s thriving business community increasingly recognizes nutrition’s role in employee wellness:
- Corporate wellness programs – Employee health coaching and education
- Fitness centers and gyms – Member nutrition consultation and support
- Spa and resort properties – Wellness program development and implementation
- Food service companies – Menu development and nutritional analysis
- Insurance companies – Preventive health program design
Private Practice and Consulting:
Many Colorado nutritionists establish independent practices offering:
- One-on-one nutrition counseling and coaching
- Group workshops and educational seminars
- Corporate wellness consulting and program development
- Specialized services for athletes, seniors, or medical conditions
- Online nutrition coaching and meal planning services
Specialization Areas:
Colorado nutritionists often specialize in areas aligned with the state’s active lifestyle:
- Sports and Performance Nutrition – Supporting Colorado’s athletic community
- Eating Disorder Treatment – Comprehensive care for mental health and nutrition
- Pediatric Nutrition – Child and adolescent health and development
- Geriatric Nutrition – Aging population health and wellness
- Clinical Nutrition – Medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions
Maintain Certification/License and Continuing Education
Professional development and continuing education ensure nutrition practitioners stay current with evolving science and best practices.
Continuing Education Requirements:
Most professional certifications require ongoing education:
- CNS Certification – 75 continuing education hours every 5 years
- CCN Certification – 40 hours annually with specific category requirements
- Professional Association Memberships – Often include education benefits and requirements
Colorado Education Opportunities:
The state offers numerous continuing education resources:
- Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Local workshops and conferences
- University Extension Programs – Colorado State University and other institutions
- Professional Conferences – Regional and national nutrition meetings
- Online Education Platforms – Flexible learning options for working professionals
Professional Development Activities:
Beyond formal education, nutritionists maintain competency through:
- Professional journal subscriptions and reading
- Research participation and presentation
- Mentoring new nutrition professionals
- Professional networking and collaboration
- Community volunteer work and education
Colorado Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
Colorado nutritionists enjoy competitive salaries and strong job growth prospects. According to May 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, dietitians and nutritionists in Colorado earned an average salary of $70,370. Data accessed in 2025. The BLS projects 6.6% national growth for the profession through 2032, though state-level projections may vary.
Salary by Experience Level:
- Entry-level (0-2 years): $45,000 – $55,000
- Mid-career (3-7 years): $55,000 – $70,000
- Experienced (8+ years): $70,000 – $85,000+
- Senior/Management roles: $80,000 – $100,000+
Geographic Salary Variations:
Salaries vary across Colorado’s diverse regions:
- Denver Metro Area: Higher salaries ($65,000-$80,000) due to cost of living and demand
- Boulder/Fort Collins: Competitive salaries ($60,000-$75,000) in university communities
- Colorado Springs: Moderate salaries ($55,000-$70,000) with a lower cost of living
- Mountain Communities: Variable salaries ($50,000-$70,000) depending on tourism and healthcare demand
Employment Growth Factors:
Several factors drive strong job growth for Colorado nutritionists:
- An aging population requiring specialized nutrition care
- Increased awareness of nutrition’s role in chronic disease prevention
- Growing emphasis on workplace wellness programs
- Expansion of healthcare services and preventive care
- Rising interest in sports nutrition and performance optimization
Becoming a Health Coach in Colorado
Colorado presents exceptional opportunities for health coaches due to the state’s health-conscious culture and active lifestyle focus. The state consistently ranks in the top 10 for overall health according to America’s Health Rankings, yet opportunities for improvement remain.
Market Demand Indicators:
- 1 in 5 Colorado adults is obese, double the 1996 rate
- Over half of Coloradans are overweight or obese
- 90% of Colorado adults report taking steps to improve their health
- New state initiatives promote integrated healthcare systems
Health Coach Education Pathways:
Unlike nutritionists, health coaches don’t require specific degrees, but education enhances credibility:
- Associate/Bachelor’s degrees in health-related fields provide a strong foundation
- Certificate programs offer focused health coaching training
- Professional certifications demonstrate competency and commitment
Certification Options:
- American Council on Exercise (ACE) – Only NCCA-accredited health coach certification
- International Coach Federation (ICF) – General coaching credential with health applications
- National Society of Health Coaches – Specialized health coaching certification
Career Opportunities:
Colorado health coaches work in diverse settings:
- Corporate wellness programs (average $3 return per $1 invested)
- Healthcare systems and medical practices
- Fitness centers and wellness facilities
- Insurance companies and employee assistance programs
- Private practice and online coaching businesses
Income Potential:
Health coach salaries vary widely based on setting and experience:
- Corporate Programs: $40,000 – $60,000 annually
- Healthcare Settings: $35,000 – $55,000 annually
- Private Practice: $30 – $150 per session
- Online Coaching: $50 – $200 per month per client
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a license to practice as a nutritionist in Colorado?
A: No, Colorado doesn’t require state licensing for nutritionists. However, professional certification significantly improves job prospects and credibility with employers and clients.
Q: What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian in Colorado?
A: Registered dietitians must complete specific education requirements, supervised practice hours, and pass the national CDR examination. Nutritionists have more flexible education paths but may have a limited scope of practice in clinical settings.
Q: How long does it take to become a nutritionist in Colorado?
A: Typically 4-6 years, including a bachelor’s degree (4 years) and professional certification process (6 months to 2 years). Associate degree paths take 2-3 years total.
Q: Can nutritionists provide medical nutrition therapy in Colorado?
A: Only registered dietitians can provide medical nutrition therapy in most healthcare settings. Nutritionists typically focus on general wellness, education, and lifestyle counseling.
Q: What’s the job outlook for nutritionists in Colorado?
A: Positive. The BLS projects 6.6% national growth for dietitians and nutritionists through 2032, driven by aging populations and increased health awareness. Colorado’s health-conscious culture may create additional opportunities.
Q: Do Colorado nutritionists need malpractice insurance?
A: While not legally required, professional liability insurance is recommended for nutritionists in private practice or providing individualized counseling.
Key Takeaways
Becoming a nutritionist in Colorado offers excellent career prospects in a state that values health and wellness. While licensing isn’t required, professional education and certification significantly enhance opportunities and earning potential.
The path typically involves earning a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions, and obtaining professional certifications. Colorado’s diverse economy provides opportunities across healthcare, corporate wellness, sports nutrition, and private practice settings.
With competitive salaries averaging $70,370 and positive job growth projected at 6.6% nationally through 2032, nutrition careers in Colorado offer both financial stability and the satisfaction of helping others achieve optimal health.
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Colorado?
Take the first step toward a rewarding career helping others achieve optimal health. Colorado’s growing wellness industry and health-conscious population create excellent opportunities for qualified nutrition professionals.
Contact a Colorado nutrition program today to explore your educational options and begin your journey toward becoming a certified nutritionist.
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.
