To become a nutritionist in Maryland, you need a master’s degree in nutrition sciences from an accredited institution, complete 900 hours of supervised experience, pass the Certification Nutrition Specialists (CNS) examination, and obtain licensure through the Maryland State Board of Dietetics Practice. Dietitians and nutritionists in Maryland earn an average salary of $84,080 as of May 2024.
The Maryland State Board of Dietetic Practice was created in 1985 under the Maryland Dietitians and Licensed Nutritionists Act to protect the public by setting professional standards for the practice of dietetics and nutrition. The Board recognizes and licenses both nutritionists and dietitians, making Maryland one of the states with comprehensive regulation of nutritionists.
If you’re interested in pursuing the registered dietitian pathway instead, you can learn about the specific requirements for becoming a registered dietitian in Maryland, which follows a different educational and credentialing process through ACEND-accredited programs.
As of June 2025, the Commission on Dietetic Registration reported 1,954 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in Maryland. The nutritionist profession offers a rewarding path for those passionate about improving public health through evidence-based nutrition guidance.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Maryland
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass the CNS Examination for Licensure
- Submit Your License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Your License and Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Maryland
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Maryland
Maryland requires candidates for nutritionist licensure to hold a master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition sciences from an accredited college or university. This education must emphasize one of the following concentrations:
- Food and nutrition
- Dietetics
- Community nutrition
- Public health nutrition
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for licensure. Individuals with equivalent academic training in related areas such as food science or nutrition education may also qualify, subject to Board approval.
Required Coursework Components
All regionally accredited master’s and doctoral programs in nutrition must include specific course requirements that meet Maryland’s standards:
| Course Category | Minimum Credit Hours | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Biochemistry | 6 credit hours | Metabolic processes, molecular biology, and cellular functions |
| Physiology or Anatomy/Physiology | 3 credit hours | Human body systems and physiological processes |
| Nutrition Science | 12 credit hours | Advanced nutrition principles, research methods, and evidence-based practice |
Accredited Nutrition Programs
Several universities offer comprehensive nutrition programs that meet the educational requirements of Maryland. Consider the following career-focused programs delivered by experienced nutritionists:
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).
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 Experience
Upon completion of the necessary educational requirements, applicants must complete a structured course of pre-planned professional experience that results in 900 hours of supervised experience in nutrition practice. This requirement ensures that license candidates develop practical competencies in applying nutrition science to real-world scenarios.
Supervised Experience Requirements
The 900-hour supervised experience component must include:
- Direct client or patient interaction under qualified supervision
- Nutrition assessment and counseling activities
- Documentation of nutrition interventions and outcomes
- Professional development activities related to nutrition practice
- Verification from a qualified supervising professional
Finding Supervised Experience Opportunities
Candidates can fulfill the supervised experience requirement through various settings:
- Healthcare facilities: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers
- Community programs: Public health departments, WIC programs, and community nutrition initiatives
- Research institutions: Universities and nutrition research centers
- Private practice settings: Established nutrition consulting practices
- Corporate wellness programs: Employee health and wellness initiatives
It’s essential to establish your supervised experience arrangement before starting and ensure that your supervisor meets the Maryland Board’s qualifications.
Pass the CNS Examination for Licensure
Only candidates who have met the supervised experience and educational requirements and completed an application for licensure may qualify to take the Certification Nutrition Specialists Examination (CNS) administered by the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS). This examination pathway is distinct from the registered dietitian route, which requires passing the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) examination.
About the CNS Examination
The CNS exam is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates advanced knowledge in nutrition science and the ability to apply evidence-based nutrition practices. The examination covers:
- Advanced nutrition assessment and biochemistry
- Research methodology and evidence-based practice
- Medical nutrition therapy and clinical applications
- Nutrition counseling and behavior change strategies
- Professional ethics and regulatory compliance
- Public health nutrition and community interventions
Examination Process and Fees
After the Maryland Board of Dietetic Practice verifies your eligibility based on your completed application, education, and supervised experience, you’ll receive authorization to schedule your CNS examination through the CBNS. The examination fee is paid directly to the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists when you register for the exam.
The Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists provides detailed information about current exam fees, content, preparation resources, and testing procedures.
Submitting Examination Results
After completing the CNS examination, your results must be submitted directly to the Maryland State Board of Dietetics Practice. The Board will review your complete application package, including:
- Official transcripts from your accredited institution
- Documentation of 900 hours of supervised experience
- CNS examination results
- Completed and notarized application
The Board will notify you of your eligibility for licensure after reviewing all materials.
Submit Your License Application
To apply for licensure as a nutritionist in Maryland, candidates must complete the Maryland Department of Health Board of Dietetic Practice Application for Licensure in its entirety and have it notarized. The application requires an initial processing fee of $75 (made payable to the Board of Dietetic Practice). Additionally, candidates must register and pay separately for the CNS examination directly through the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists.
Required Application Materials
| Document | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Form | Completed and notarized | Available through the Maryland Department of Health |
| Official Transcript | Sent directly from the registrar | Must come from an accredited institution |
| Maryland Application Fee | $75 payable to Board | Initial application processing fee |
| CNS Examination Fee | Paid directly to CBNS | Separate fee for examination registration |
| Maryland Licensing Fee | $225 upon approval | Paid after Board notification of eligibility |
| Supervised Experience Documentation | 900 hours verified | Must include supervisor credentials |
| CNS Examination Results | Official CBNS results | Submitted directly from the testing organization |
Application Submission
The completed application and all related documentation must be sent to:
Maryland State Board of Dietetic Practice
4201 Patterson Avenue, Room 312
Baltimore, Maryland 21215
After submitting your application package, the Board will review your materials and notify you of your eligibility status. Upon approval, you’ll need to pay the licensing fee of $225 to receive your nutritionist license.
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Licensed nutritionists in Maryland work in a variety of settings, ranging from clinical healthcare to community wellness programs. Understanding the nutrition career opportunities available can help you identify the path that aligns with your professional interests and strengths.
Maryland Nutrition Employment Landscape
As of June 2025, Maryland’s nutrition workforce includes 1,954 credentialed professionals working throughout the state. The demand for qualified nutritionists continues to grow as healthcare organizations, public health agencies, and private practices recognize the crucial role of nutrition in preventive care and the management of chronic diseases.
Career Settings for Licensed Nutritionists
Maryland nutritionists find employment in various professional environments:
- Healthcare Systems: Major hospital networks like Johns Hopkins Medicine, University of Maryland Medical System, and MedStar Health employ nutritionists for inpatient and outpatient services
- Public Health Agencies: County health departments throughout Maryland hire nutritionists for WIC programs, maternal and child health services, and chronic disease prevention initiatives
- Private Practice: Many licensed nutritionists establish independent consulting practices or join group practices specializing in areas like weight management, sports nutrition, or integrative health
- Corporate Wellness: Large employers and wellness companies hire nutritionists to develop employee health programs and provide nutrition counseling
- Research Institutions: Universities and research centers employ nutritionists to conduct nutrition research and contribute to evidence-based practice development
- Community Organizations: Nonprofits, senior centers, and community health organizations hire nutritionists for health education and program development
Specialized Practice Areas
Licensed nutritionists can develop expertise in specialized areas of practice:
- Clinical nutrition and medical nutrition therapy
- Sports and performance nutrition
- Pediatric and maternal nutrition
- Geriatric nutrition
- Integrative and functional nutrition
- Public health and community nutrition
- Nutrition education and program development
- Food service management and consultation
Maintain Your License and Continuing Education
All licensed nutritionists in Maryland are required to maintain their licenses by completing at least 30 hours of continuing education related to nutrition during each renewal period. This requirement ensures that practitioners maintain current knowledge and stay informed about advances in nutrition science and clinical practice.
Approved Continuing Education Providers
The Maryland Board of Dietetic Practice accepts continuing education units (CEUs) from various reputable organizations:
- The Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists
- The American College of Nutrition
- American Society for Nutrition
- The Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education
- The Accreditation Council for Pharmaceutical Education
- American Osteopathic Association
- The Red Cross
- United States Department of Agriculture, including Agricultural Research Services
- National Institutes of Health
- Food and Drug Administration
- Accredited colleges and universities
License Renewal Process
Licensed nutritionists in Maryland can complete their renewal online through the Board’s portal. The Board sends instruction letters to eligible practitioners regarding the renewal process. To complete the renewal, you’ll need:
- Maryland Board of Dietetic Practice license number
- Social Security number
- Continuing education records (documentation of 30 hours)
- Visa or MasterCard for the renewal payment
Professional Development Strategies
Beyond meeting minimum requirements, successful nutritionists invest in ongoing professional development through:
- Attending national and regional nutrition conferences
- Pursuing advanced certifications in specialized areas
- Participating in professional association activities
- Engaging in research and publication opportunities
- Developing expertise through mentorship and peer collaboration
Maryland Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
As of May 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that Maryland ranked as the fifth top-paying state in the nation for dietitians and nutritionists in terms of average salary. Professionals in this combined category earned an annual mean salary of $84,080 in Maryland, reflecting the state’s strong healthcare economy and demand for nutrition professionals.
Regional Salary Variations
Salary levels vary by region and practice setting within Maryland:
- DC Metro Area: Dietitians and nutritionists in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area earned an average salary of $75,140 as of May 2024
- Baltimore Region: Maryland’s largest city offers competitive salaries due to the concentration of major healthcare systems
- Suburban Counties: Montgomery and Howard counties typically offer higher compensation due to higher costs of living
Note: BLS salary data combines the categories of dietitians and nutritionists and may not distinguish between licensed nutritionists and registered dietitians.
Factors Influencing Earning Potential
Several factors affect nutritionist salaries in Maryland:
- Years of experience and specialized expertise
- Practice setting (hospital, private practice, public health)
- Additional certifications and advanced degrees
- Geographic location within the state
- Level of responsibility and leadership roles
Professional Associations for Maryland Nutritionists
Membership in professional organizations provides networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy support:
Maryland School Nutrition Association – Supports nutrition professionals working in school settings
Maryland Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – State affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, offering professional development and networking
Becoming a Health Coach in Maryland
Maryland faces significant public health challenges that present opportunities for health coaches to make a meaningful impact. According to America’s Health Rankings by the United Health Foundation, while Maryland has a lower smoking prevalence than many states and more primary care physicians per capita, the state struggles with health disparities based on income and education levels.
Maryland’s Health Landscape
Baltimore and other Maryland communities face specific public health challenges where health coaches can make a positive impact. Some regions, particularly urban areas, continue to experience health disparities and higher preventable death rates. The 2016 County Health Rankings (compiled by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute) showed Baltimore County ranking last among Maryland counties for overall health, though more recent data may reflect changes in these rankings.
Maryland also ranks high among other states in asthma cases among high school students and AIDS cases in children aged 13 and under. These are areas where the education and health promotion efforts of health coaches have the potential to positively impact behavior, particularly in urban settings.
Health Coach Career Opportunities
Health coaches in Maryland work across multiple sectors, from major hospital systems to corporate wellness programs and public health agencies. They play vital roles in promoting weight loss, healthier lifestyles, smoking cessation, reducing drug dependence, and preventing premature death through education and behavior change support.
Education and Certification Requirements
Health coaching is an unregulated profession in Maryland without specific licensing requirements. However, if your work involves designing nutrition plans for patients in hospitals or other clients, you’ll need to become a Registered Dietitian through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Commission and obtain licensure through the Maryland State Board of Dietetics Practice.
Most health coaching positions don’t require a dietitian licensure or RN credentials. Instead, success in health coach certification depends on obtaining education and training that meets specific employer requirements.
Degree Options for Health Coaches
Associate Degree and Certificate Programs:
- Certificate in Integrative Wellness
- Associate of Applied Science in Health and Wellness
- Nutrition Certificate
- Holistic Nutrition Certificate
Bachelor’s Degree Programs:
- Health Education and Promotion
- Health and Wellness Coaching
- Public Health
- Sports and Health Sciences
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Exercise Science and Kinesiology
Master’s Degrees and Graduate Certificates:
- Master of Science in Nutrition and Integrative Health
- Master of Arts in Health Coaching with Concentration in Nutrition
- Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Health & Wellness Coaching
- Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Professional Health Coach Certifications
Many Maryland employers prefer or require specific professional certifications:
National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC) – Offers credentialing as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES). Candidates must pass an examination and meet experience requirements.
International Coach Federation (ICF) – Provides credentials at three levels: Associate Certified Coach (ACC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Master Certified Coach (MCC). Each level requires passing an oral examination and participating in mock coaching situations.
American Council on Exercise (ACE) – ACE certification is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and provides “standard” or “premium” self-study packages to prepare for the Health Coach Certification examination.
Sample Health Coach Positions in Maryland
The following examples illustrate the types of employment opportunities available to properly credentialed health coaches in Maryland:
Health Educator for Johns Hopkins Medicine – Baltimore, MD
Responsibilities include developing, implementing, and evaluating health education programs, locating health education resources, networking with community groups, focusing on relevant health topics, and administering classes throughout Maryland.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in health promotion, health education, nursing, or another health-related field
- Certified Health Education Specialist preferred
- Health or Wellness Coach certification preferred
- Two years of experience in health education or promotion
Community Health Worker at CareLink – Gaithersburg, MD
Assists clients in follow-up medical care post-hospital discharge, accompanies clients to medical appointments, checks in on them in the community, and acts as the hospital liaison between providers.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in community health, health education, or promotion preferred
- Fluency in Spanish preferred
- Pass a background check
Program Director of Health and Wellness Coaching Programs at Maryland University of Integrative Health – Laurel, MD
Manages and administers the school’s master’s degree and graduate certificate Health and Wellness Coaching programs, and participates in recruiting students into the program.
Requirements:
- Master’s degree in health coaching or related field
- Five or more years of administrative experience preferred
- Three or more years of instructional experience preferred
- ICF Coaching Certification preferred (ACC, PCC, MCC)
Health Coach at Serenity Zone Medical Spa – Olney, MD
Works with clients and employees of the medical spa to inspire healthier habits, develops coaching relationships with clients, and assists them in working toward their goals.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in health education, health promotion, athletic training, nutrition, nursing, or another health-related field
- One year of health coaching experience
State and Local Health Resources
Maryland health coaches often collaborate with these agencies and departments:
- Cecil County Health Department
- Harford County Health Department
- Baltimore County Health Department
- Baltimore City Health Department
- Maryland Association of County Health Officers
- Maryland Occupational Safety and Health
- Maryland Public Health Association
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).
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian in Maryland?
While both professions work in nutrition, they follow different educational and credentialing pathways. Licensed nutritionists in Maryland hold a master’s degree in nutrition sciences, complete 900 hours of supervised experience, and pass the CNS examination. Registered dietitians complete ACEND-accredited programs, dietetic internships, and pass the CDR examination. Both are regulated by the Maryland State Board of Dietetics Practice.
How long does it take to become a licensed nutritionist in Maryland?
The typical timeline is 6-8 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s degree, plus several months to complete the 900 hours of supervised experience. The application and examination process adds additional time.
Can I practice as a nutritionist in Maryland without a license?
Maryland law protects the titles “Licensed Nutritionist” and “Licensed Dietitian,” requiring proper licensure to use these professional designations. While individuals may provide certain nutrition-related services without licensure (such as general wellness coaching or nutrition education that doesn’t constitute medical nutrition therapy), using the protected title “nutritionist” or representing yourself as a licensed nutrition professional without proper credentials violates state law. Anyone offering clinical nutrition services or nutrition assessment and counseling should verify that their activities comply with Maryland regulations.
Do I need to renew my Maryland nutritionist license?
Yes. Licensed nutritionists are required to renew their licenses regularly and complete 30 hours of continuing education from approved providers during each renewal period.
What’s the job outlook for nutritionists in Maryland?
Maryland’s nutrition profession exhibits strong growth potential due to the increasing recognition of nutrition’s role in preventive healthcare, the state’s aging population, and the growing emphasis on chronic disease management through dietary interventions.
Can I work as a nutritionist in Maryland with an out-of-state license?
Maryland requires licensure through the state Board of Dietetics Practice. Out-of-state practitioners must apply for a Maryland license, although some credentials may be transferable if they meet the state’s requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland requires a master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition sciences, 900 hours of supervised experience, and passing the CNS examination for nutritionist licensure
- The Maryland State Board of Dietetic Practice regulates both nutritionists and dietitians, establishing professional standards since 1985
- Dietitians and nutritionists in Maryland earn an average salary of $84,080 (May 2024), ranking Maryland as the fifth highest-paying state for nutrition professionals
- Required coursework includes at least 6 credit hours in biochemistry, 3 in physiology, and 12 in nutrition science
- License maintenance requires 30 hours of continuing education per renewal period from approved providers
- Health coaching offers an alternative career path without licensing requirements, but with diverse educational and certification options
- Maryland’s public health challenges create strong demand for nutrition professionals in healthcare, community health, and corporate wellness settings
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Maryland?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed nutritionist by exploring accredited graduate programs in nutrition sciences. Maryland’s growing demand for qualified nutrition professionals creates excellent career opportunities across healthcare systems, public health agencies, and private practice settings.
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.
