Part Two of Our Series on Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics Counseling

There’s a reason that biochemistry is one of the key classes that you’ll find in a standard bachelor’s degree program in nutrition. When you get right down to it, when nutritionists discuss food and nutrients and their impact on the human body and health, they are essentially talking about the chemical metabolic reactions that occur at the cellular level to digest and convert food into fuel.

Of course, the instructional code that tells those cells how to do all that is written into our very genes. At the same time, the nutrients and chemicals present in those foods can influence the genes themselves, flipping switches that control protein synthesis, metabolic events, and even the expression of chronic diseases.

If that all sounds like pretty essential knowledge for the field of nutrition to understand, you’re right. It’s all a part of the new science of nutrigenomics. Dietitians specializing in nutrigenomics are expected to be in high demand in the years to come. Whether you’re already working in the field or studying toward that goal now, a few key moves will put your career on track.

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.

Why a Nutrigenomics Specialization Could Be the Right Move for Both Your Career and Your Clients

Taking a patient-centered approach has long been the standard in nutrition counseling. Nutrigenomics takes that ability to a whole new level.

With insights into individual genetic predispositions and the impacts of various nutrients on the genotype, counselors can tailor their recommendations with vastly more information and assurance. Registered dietitians have always taken into account things like:

• Family history
• Health problems
• Dietary preferences
• Exercise and lifestyle factors

However, individual genetic analysis will provide them with rock-solid science to support their diet plans.

This can be particularly useful for clients where standard nutritional counseling approaches don’t quite meet their needs. Every dietitian has seen them: the patient who, for whatever reason, doesn’t respond as you would expect to a conventional treatment plan.

In the past, that has meant long periods of trial and error, figuring out which foods and patterns work and which don’t. But a genetic analysis may quickly reveal all.

This patient population may be the ideal target for nutritionists specializing in nutrigenomics and genetics-informed nutrition counseling.

Where Do Nutrigenomics Specialists Work?

Because this field can be applied to nearly any patient population, employment opportunities for nutrigenomics counselors should be widespread. Unfortunately, it’s such a new development that it’s challenging to predict precisely how widely or what specific differences there could be in salaries and employment.

Due to the high level of technical detail in nutrigenomics, you can expect to find most of these positions currently tied closely to healthcare systems. In fact, medical doctors are among the most significant users of the technology so far. They collaborate with clinical dietitians to make progress with patients who are particularly challenging to treat, benefiting most from the technology.

On the other hand, as more people become aware of the potential of nutrigenomics, you can also expect demand to rise among independent nutritionists. Particularly for Certified Nutrition Specialists managing their own practices, this could be a skill set that drives a significant amount of business in the coming years.

You can also find plenty of roles in this field, already working at universities and other research centers. As the details of the connections between genes and nutrients continue to be explored, there are many opportunities to help push the field forward at the cutting edge.

Getting the Right Education To Become a Nutrigenomics Specialist

If it isn’t clear already, this is a field in nutritional counseling that absolutely demands a high level of education. Counselors who plan to integrate genetic testing results into nutritional planning need a strong understanding of genetics and genomes. Interpreting the results that come in from genetic testing isn’t child’s play; there is no one-to-one mapping of gene to protein, but instead complex combinations that can express differently in different circumstances.

Sorting all this out is going to push most nutritionists in this field toward a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics at a minimum. This offers relevant coursework in areas like microbiology and organic chemistry. This is foundational knowledge for understanding nutrigenomics, although it may not be sufficient on its own.

Importantly, master’s programs also provide access to participation in advanced research projects. Ideally, you’ll aim for programs that investigate nutrigenomics and nutritional genetics directly. Even if you don’t, however, just having the exposure to the concepts and processes of scientific research will give you a better platform for understanding nutrigenomics breakthroughs when you encounter them.

Classes That Will Help Boost Your Nutrigenomics Street Cred

In any degree program, you can boost your credentials toward nutrigenomics practice through courses in fundamentals such as:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Nutrition and Omics
• Nutrition Informatics

There are also a handful of new programs emerging that focus on this new field, with more likely to follow. A Master of Science in Nutrition and Nutrigenomics or a Master of Biohacking and Nutrigenomics will include additional studies in areas like human genetics, lifecycle nutrition, and disease to help you make sense of the new tools available.

Increasingly, standard master’s programs in dietetics are also incorporating this type of coursework to support more effective personalized nutrition planning.

Your Options for Retraining as a Nutrigenomics Specialist if You Are Already a Qualified Dietitian

You can’t go back in time to switch your major to a degree that didn’t exist only a few years ago, however. If you are already a registered dietitian looking to transition to nutrigenomics work, you should consider other options.

For starters, it’s essential to understand that you don’t need any special certification to work in nutrigenomics. However, earning a certification may help your job prospects.

There are currently no certification requirements to become a specialist in nutritional genomics.

On the other hand, advanced studies in biogenetics, informatics, and biochemistry are essential for effectively utilizing nutritional genetic information in diet planning. So most nutritionists are going to have to revisit their training.

Fortunately, even if you already have a master’s degree, there are resources in the field to keep you up to date on new nutrigenomics developments.

For example, the American Nutrition Association offers a specialty Nutritional Genomics Training and Certification Program that delivers five modules of instruction in the field. At the end, you may be eligible for the CNGS (Certified Nutritional Genomics Specialist) credential. There are also universities offering nutrigenomics graduate certificate options, as well as private, for-profit educational providers with training courses in nutrigenomics.

The NutriGenomics Institute is one of these, offering online courses that specifically break down topics relevant to health and sports, as well as current nutrition professionals.

There are also options, such as the Nutrition Genome Nutrigenomic and Epigenetic Training Program, which ties a comprehensive training program to specific counseling practices. These options are well-suited for individuals seeking a comprehensive training package and potential referrals through larger organizations.

In any case, you’ll find that you have plenty of different options for tailoring your education to your career goals, even if your nutrition degree was awarded years ago. Staying current is always a part of work as a registered dietitian. When it comes to nutrigenomics, it may be the ticket to a whole new field of practice.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What education is required to become a nutrigenomics specialist?

Most nutrigenomics specialists begin with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field of health science. Many professionals also pursue a master’s degree in nutrition for advanced knowledge. Registered dietitians (RDs) often transition into the field of nutrigenomics after completing their initial education and internship requirements.

Are there specific nutrigenomics certification programs available?

Yes, several organizations offer nutrigenomics certification programs for nutrition professionals. These include specialized courses in nutritional genomics, genetic testing interpretation, and personalized nutrition counseling. Certification requirements typically include completing coursework, passing exams, and meeting continuing education standards.

How long does it take to become a specialist in nutrigenomics?

The timeline varies depending on your starting point. If you already hold a nutrition degree, specialized nutrigenomics training can be completed in 6-12 months. For those starting from scratch, expect 4-6 years for a bachelor’s degree, plus additional certification time. Registered dietitians can transition into nutrigenomics more quickly with specialized training.

What does a nutrigenomics specialist do?

Nutrigenomics specialists examine how individual genetic variations influence nutritional needs and responses to specific foods. They interpret genetic test results, create personalized nutrition plans based on DNA profiles, counsel clients on gene-based dietary recommendations, and help optimize health outcomes through precision nutrition approaches.

Is nutrigenomics a growing career field?

Yes, nutrigenomics is an emerging and rapidly growing field within the field of personalized medicine. As genetic testing becomes more accessible and affordable, demand for professionals who can interpret genetic data for nutrition counseling is increasing. This specialization offers strong career growth potential for nutrition professionals.

Can I specialize in nutrigenomics without being a registered dietitian?

While RD credentials aren’t always required, many nutrigenomics positions prefer or require registered dietitian status. Certified Nutrition Specialists (CNS) and other credentialed nutrition professionals can also pursue specialization in nutrigenomics. Check specific employer requirements and state regulations to determine the practice scope.

What salary can nutrigenomics specialists expect?

Salaries vary by location, experience, and work setting. Specialized nutrition professionals, including those in nutrigenomics, often earn higher wages than general nutritionists due to their advanced expertise and specialized knowledge. Private practice specialists may charge premium rates for personalized, genetics-based nutrition consulting services.

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD, is a Registered Dietitian and Nutritional Epidemiologist with over 18 years of experience in evidence-based nutrition. Holding a PhD from the University of Copenhagen, she specializes in dietary interventions for metabolic health and sustainable eating. Dr. Voss has published in leading journals like The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and contributed to global wellness programs

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