To become a licensed nutritionist in Delaware, you need a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics, complete 900 hours of supervised practice, pass the CNS or RD exam, and apply through the Delaware Board of Dietetics/Nutrition with a $182 fee. The process typically takes 4-5 years.
Delaware requires nutritionists to be licensed as Licensed Dietitian Nutritionists (LDN) to provide nutrition services. According to the Delaware Board of Dietetics/Nutrition, the terms “nutritionist” and “dietitian” are interchangeable, and only licensed professionals can provide nutrition therapy, counseling, and specialized nutrition support.
Licensed nutritionists in Delaware can assess nutritional needs, develop intervention plans, provide nutrition education, and offer counseling services. If you’re interested in pursuing this rewarding career, you’re in the right place to learn about state-specific requirements and the step-by-step process.
Table of Contents
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the section that best describes your current situation:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Delaware
- Gain Required Supervised Practice Experience
- Pass Required Examination
- Submit Your License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain License and Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Delaware
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Delaware
All licensed nutritionists in Delaware must complete specific post-secondary education, including a minimum of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a major course of study in one of the following areas:
| Acceptable Degree Programs | Typical Duration | Career Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Human Nutrition | 4 years | Clinical and community nutrition |
| Nutrition Education | 4 years | Public health and education |
| Food and Nutrition | 4 years | Food science and nutrition counseling |
| Dietetics | 4 years | Clinical dietetics and food service |
| Food Systems Management | 4 years | Healthcare food service management |
Featured Nutritionist 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.
Gain Required Supervised Practice Experience
Following completion of your bachelor’s or master’s degree, you must complete at least 900 hours of documented and supervised practice experience under the supervision of:
- A registered dietitian (RD/RDN)
- A licensed healthcare provider
- An individual with a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution with major coursework in nutrition education, human nutrition, food and nutrition, dietetics, or food systems management
Important: Supervised experience must typically be completed in a U.S. state or territory unless the Board approves equivalent international training. This hands-on training provides practical experience in nutrition assessment, counseling techniques, and professional practice standards.
Pass Required Examination
To qualify for licensure as a nutritionist in Delaware, you must pass a national examination recognized by the Delaware Board of Dietetics/Nutrition:
| Examination | Certifying Body | Focus Area | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) | Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (BCNS) | Advanced clinical nutrition | Master’s degree (with required nutrition coursework) + 1,000 hours supervised practice |
| Registered Dietitian (RD) | Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) | Clinical dietetics and food service | ACEND-accredited program + internship |
Most nutritionists in Delaware choose the RD pathway, as it’s widely recognized and aligns with registered dietitian requirements in Delaware. The CNS route is ideal for those with advanced degrees seeking specialized clinical nutrition practice.
Submit Your License Application
Once you’ve met all requirements, submit a completed, signed, and notarized Application for Licensure as a Dietitian/Nutritionist along with:
- $182 processing fee (check or money order payable to the State of Delaware)
- Official transcripts sent directly from your college/university to the Board office
- Supervised Practice Experience Assessment form completed by your supervisor
- Verification of passing examination scores
Submit all documents to:
Delaware Division of Professional Regulation
Attn: Board of Dietetics/Nutrition
Cannon Building
861 Silver Lake Boulevard
Dover, Delaware 19904
Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks after receipt of complete application materials.
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Licensed nutritionists in Delaware work in diverse settings, providing essential nutrition services across healthcare, education, and community wellness sectors. Common career paths include:
- Clinical Nutritionist: Hospitals, medical centers, and specialty clinics
- Community Nutritionist: Public health departments and non-profit organizations
- Private Practice: Independent nutrition counseling and consulting
- Corporate Wellness: Employee health and wellness programs
- Sports Nutrition: Athletic programs and fitness centers
- Food Service Management: Healthcare facilities and schools
Delaware’s growing emphasis on preventive healthcare creates expanding opportunities for nutrition professionals. Major employers include ChristianaCare Health System, Nemours Children’s Health, and the Delaware Division of Public Health.
Maintain License and Continuing Education
Delaware nutritionist licenses must be renewed biennially (every two years) by May 31 of odd years. To maintain your license, you must complete:
- 30 hours of continuing education that meet Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics requirements during each 2-year period
- Submit renewal application and pay renewal fee (amount determined at time of renewal)
- Use the online renewal system with credit card payment
Professional associations offering continuing education opportunities include:
- Delaware Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Delaware School Nutrition Association
- American Nutrition Association
- National Association of Nutrition Professionals
Becoming a Health Coach in Delaware
Health coaching offers an alternative path for nutrition professionals who want to focus on lifestyle counseling and behavior change. Delaware faces significant health challenges, with nearly 70% of residents being overweight or obese, creating a strong demand for health coaches.
Unlike nutritionist licensure, health coaching doesn’t require state licensing in Delaware. However, health coaches cannot provide therapeutic nutrition care – only licensed dietitians can offer medical nutrition therapy in Delaware.
Health Coach Education and Certification Options
Popular undergraduate majors for aspiring health coaches include:
- Nutrition and Health Behavior Sciences
- Public Health and Exercise Science
- Health Promotion and Movement Science
- Nursing and Applied Nutrition
Graduate-level options in Delaware include health coaching certificates, health promotion degrees, and human nutrition programs.
Professional Certification
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) offers the only nationally accredited Health Coach Certification program, with three specialized tracks:
- Health Coaching for Fitness Professionals
- Health Coaching for Health Care Providers
- Health Coaching for Workplace Wellness
Delaware employers known to hire health coaches include Delaware State Housing Authority, YMCA, University of Delaware, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and various wellness companies.
Delaware Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
According to May 2023 BLS data (accessed September 2025), the average salary for nutritionists in Delaware was $75,060. The BLS projects a 13.5% increase in nutritionist jobs in Delaware through 2032, with approximately 30 annual job openings due to growth, retirements, and turnover.
Salary ranges vary by setting and experience level:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Common Work Settings |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-2 years) | $45,000 – $55,000 | Hospitals, community health centers |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | $60,000 – $75,000 | Private practice, corporate wellness |
| Experienced (5+ years) | $75,000 – $90,000+ | Management, specialized clinical roles |
Delaware’s proximity to major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., provides additional career opportunities for nutrition professionals willing to commute or relocate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed nutritionist in Delaware?
Typically 4-5 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, plus 6-12 months to complete 900 supervised practice hours and pass the required examination.
What’s the difference between the CNS and RD exams for Delaware licensure?
Both are accepted by Delaware. The RD exam focuses on clinical dietetics and food service management, while the CNS exam emphasizes advanced clinical nutrition practice. Most choose the RD pathway as it’s more widely recognized.
Can I transfer my nutritionist license from another state to Delaware?
Delaware may accept licenses from other states through reciprocity if you meet equivalent education and examination requirements. Contact the Delaware Board of Dietetics/Nutrition to verify your specific qualifications.
Do I need to complete an internship to become licensed in Delaware?
Delaware requires 900 hours of supervised practice, which can be completed through a formal dietetic internship or supervised work experience under qualified professionals.
What continuing education is required to maintain my Delaware nutritionist license?
30 hours of continuing education every two years that meet Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics requirements. Licenses renew biennially by May 31 of odd years.
Key Takeaways
- Delaware requires licensure as an LDN to practice as a nutritionist, with the same requirements as dietitians
- Minimum requirements include a bachelor’s degree in nutrition/dietetics, 900 supervised practice hours, and passing the CNS or RD exam
- The licensing process typically takes 4-5 years and costs $182 for the initial application
- Delaware nutritionists earn an average of $75,060 annually ,with strong job growth projected at 13.5% through 2032
- Licenses must be renewed every two year,s with 30 hours of continuing education
- Health coaching offers an alternative path without licensing requirements, but with practice limitations
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Delaware?
The path to becoming a licensed nutritionist in Delaware is clearly defined and offers excellent career prospects in a growing field. Whether you’re interested in clinical nutrition, community health, or private practice, Delaware’s diverse healthcare landscape provides opportunities for nutrition professionals at all levels.
Explore accredited nutrition degree programs to begin your journey, and review national salary data to understand earning potential in this rewarding 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
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.
