To become a licensed nutritionist in Massachusetts, you need a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, complete 900+ hours of supervised experience OR equivalent paid experience based on degree level, pass the CNS exam (the only accepted exam), and obtain LDN state licensure. Licensed nutritionists earned an average of $82,380 in 2024.
The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Dietetics and Nutritionists grants nutritionist licenses to qualified professionals who meet strict education, experience, and examination requirements. Licensed nutritionists in Massachusetts use the LDN (Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist) credential and work in hospitals, clinics, private practice, and community health settings across the state.
View how to become a registered dietitian in Massachusetts for the RD credential pathway, which requires ACEND-accredited programs and different certification requirements.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Massachusetts
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass the CNS Certification Examination
- Submit Your License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain License and Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Massachusetts
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Massachusetts
To become a licensed nutritionist in Massachusetts, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a bachelor’s degree or higher from a U.S. Department of Education-recognized institution. The degree must be in one of these approved fields:
- Dietetics and nutrition
- Human nutrition
- Nutrition education
- Public health nutrition
If your degree is in a different field, you can still qualify by completing these minimum coursework requirements:
| Subject Area | Required Hours | Specific Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Sciences | 9 semester hours | Human anatomy, physiology, microbiology |
| Chemistry | 6 semester hours | Must include biochemistry |
| Behavioral Sciences | 3 semester hours | Psychology, sociology, counseling, and cultural anthropology |
| Food and Nutrition | 24 semester hours | Medical dietetics, food science, applied nutrition (3+ hours each) |
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 Experience
Massachusetts requires substantial hands-on experience before granting nutritionist licenses. You must complete one of these supervised experience options:
Option 1: Formal Internship
- Board-approved clinical internship
- Minimum 900 hours in dietetics and nutrition
- Supervised by a licensed nutritionist
- Post-baccalaureate program
Option 2: Paid Professional Experience
Minimum 32 hours per week in dietetics and nutrition, with timeframes based on degree level:
- Bachelor’s degree holders: Three years post-baccalaureate experience
- Master’s degree holders: Two years post-baccalaureate experience
- Doctoral degree holders: One year post-doctoral experience
Pass the CNS Certification Examination
All nutritionist license candidates in Massachusetts must pass the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) examination administered by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS). This is the only examination accepted for nutritionist licensure in Massachusetts (the RD exam is for registered dietitian licensure, which is a separate credential pathway).
| Exam Section | Percentage | Content Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Fundamental Principles of Nutrition | 20% | Basic nutrition science, biochemistry |
| Nutrients and Human Health | 30% | Vitamins, minerals, macronutrients |
| Nutrition Assessment | 20% | Client evaluation methods |
| Clinical Intervention and Monitoring | 25% | Treatment planning, follow-up |
| Professional Practice | 5% | Ethics, legal issues, and communication |
Submit Your License Application
To apply for your Massachusetts nutritionist license, submit the following documents to the Board of Dietetics and Nutritionists:
- Completed Application for Licensure as Dietitian/Nutritionist
- Official transcript verifying your degree, OR Course Summary Form with transcripts if the degree is inan unrelated field
- Official sealed letter from CBNS verifying CNS exam passage
- Application fee of $196 (payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) – verify current fee with the Massachusetts Board
- Notarized application
Mail completed application to:
Board of Dietetics and Nutritionists
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710
Boston, MA 02118
Important: Licensing requirements and fees may change. Always verify current requirements, application procedures, and fees with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Dietitians and Nutritionists before applying.
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Licensed nutritionists in Massachusetts work in diverse healthcare settings and can pursue various specializations:
Employment Settings
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Private practice clinics
- Community health centers
- Public health departments
- Corporate wellness programs
- Sports and fitness facilities
Specialization Areas
- Clinical nutrition
- Sports nutrition
- Pediatric nutrition
- Geriatric nutrition
- Weight management
- Eating disorder recovery
Maintain License and Continuing Education
Massachusetts nutritionist licenses must be renewed every two years. To maintain your license, you must complete 30 continuing education units during each renewal period.
Continuing Education Requirements:
- 30 units every two years
- Each unit = 50+ minutes of organized learning
- Must contribute to professional competence
- License expires on your birthday
- Renewal fee: $130
Massachusetts Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dietitians and nutritionists in Massachusetts earned an average salary of $82,380 as of May 2024 (verify with the most recent BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics release). Massachusetts ranked third nationally for the concentration of dietitian and nutritionist jobs, indicating strong demand for qualified professionals.
| Salary Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,820 | $26.36 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $82,380 | $39.61 |
| 90th Percentile | $114,670 | $55.13 |
The Boston metro area reported an average salary of $81,400 for dietitians and nutritionists, ranking fourth nationally among metro areas with the highest employment levels in this profession.
Becoming a Health Coach in Massachusetts
Health coaching represents an alternative career path in Massachusetts that doesn’t require state licensure. The Massachusetts Hospital Association has implemented health coaching initiatives since 2016 to reduce hospital readmissions and improve patient outcomes. Important note: Health coaches cannot provide medical nutrition therapy or clinical nutrition services – these require licensed nutritionist or registered dietitian credentials.
Education and Certification Options
While no specific educational path is mandated, most employers prefer candidates with:
- Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field
- Professional health coach certification
- Clinical or wellness experience
Professional Certifications
- American Council on Exercise (ACE): NCCA-accredited health coach certification
- International Coach Federation (ICF): ACC, PCC, and MCC credentials
- National Institute of Whole Health: Massachusetts-based program in Wellesley, recognized by many MA employers
Career Opportunities
Health coaches in Massachusetts work in various settings, including hospitals, corporate wellness programs, and private practice. The role focuses on helping clients adopt healthy behaviors and manage chronic conditions through lifestyle modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a nutritionist in Massachusetts?
The process typically takes 4-6 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, plus 6 months to 2+ years for required supervised experience, depending on your chosen pathway (internship vs. work experience).
Can I practice nutrition in Massachusetts without a license?
No, Massachusetts requires licensure to use titles like “nutritionist” or “dietitian-nutritionist” or to provide nutrition services. However, you can work as a health coach without state licensure.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian in Massachusetts?
Nutritionists in Massachusetts earn the CNS credential through CBNS, while registered dietitians earn the RD credential through CDR. Both require state licensure, but have different educational and examination requirements.
Do I need to complete an internship to become a nutritionist in Massachusetts?
Not necessarily. You can fulfill experience requirements through either a 900-hour supervised internship OR 1-3 years of paid professional experience in nutrition, depending on your degree level.
How much does the CNS exam cost?
The CNS examination fee varies by year. Check the BCNS website for current pricing, as fees typically range from $500-800.
Key Takeaways
- Massachusetts requires a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field with specific coursework requirements
- You must complete 900+ hours of supervised experience or 1-3 years of paid work experience
- All candidates must pass the CNS examination administered by CBNS
- The application process requires official transcripts, exam verification, and a $196 fee
- Licensed nutritionists in Massachusetts earn an average of $82,380 annually
- Licenses must be renewed every two years with 30 continuing education units
- Health coaching offers an alternative career path without licensure requirements
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Massachusetts?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed nutritionist by exploring accredited nutrition degree programs. Our education specialists can help you find the right program that meets Massachusetts requirements and fits your career goals.
Find Nutrition Degree 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.
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.
