Mississippi requires licensed dietitians to provide nutrition services. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, complete 900+ supervised hours, and pass the CDR exam. Licensed dietitians earned an average of $61,780 in 2024.
Mississippi has unique regulations for nutrition professionals. The Office of Health Protection, Professional Licensure Division, regulates dietetic practice, requiring specific licensing for anyone providing nutrition services. While the title “nutritionist” is protected, only licensed dietitians can legally provide medical nutrition therapy and nutrition counseling in the state.
If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in Mississippi, this guide walks you through the complete process from education to licensure. You’ll learn about degree requirements, supervised experience, examination standards, and career opportunities in the Magnolia State. For comprehensive information about state-specific requirements for nutritionist practice across all states, explore our complete guide.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Mississippi
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass Required Examination
- Submit Your Certification/License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Certification/License and Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Mississippi
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Mississippi
Mississippi requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with coursework that meets the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics standards. Your degree must include specific areas of study that prepare you for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) examination.
Required Academic Areas
Your bachelor’s degree program must include coursework in:
- Food and Nutrition Sciences – Nutritional biochemistry, human nutrition, food science
- Food Systems Management – Food service operations, food safety, menu planning
- Human Nutrition – Life cycle nutrition, clinical nutrition, community nutrition
- Physical and Biological Sciences – Chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, anatomy, physiology
- Social Sciences – Psychology, sociology, statistics, economics
Accredited Degree Programs
Mississippi students can choose from several pathways to meet education requirements. Learn more about accredited dietitian degree programs that meet professional standards.
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.
| Degree Level | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree in Nutrition | 2 years | Entry-level positions, preparation for bachelor’s |
| Bachelor’s Degree in Dietetics | 4 years | Meeting CDR eligibility requirements |
| Master’s Degree in Nutrition | 2 years (post-bachelor) | Advanced specialization, research |
Gain Required Supervised Experience
After completing your degree, you must accumulate at least 900 hours of supervised practice experience. This requirement ensures you gain hands-on training in real-world nutrition settings before practicing independently.
Dietetic Internship Options
Most candidates complete their supervised experience through an accredited dietetic internship program. Mississippi offers several pathways:
- Traditional Internships – Full-time programs lasting 6-12 months
- Distance Learning Programs – Flexible options for working professionals
- Individualized Supervised Practice – Custom arrangements with approved preceptors
Experience Areas
Your supervised experience must include rotations in:
- Clinical nutrition in healthcare settings
- Community nutrition programs
- Food service management
- Administrative and business practices
Pass Required Examination
Mississippi requires passing the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) examination to practice as a licensed dietitian. This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge across all areas of dietetic practice.
CDR Examination Details
- Format – Computer-based test with 125 multiple-choice questions
- Duration – 2.5 hours to complete
- Content Areas – Food and nutrition sciences, nutrition care, management, foodservice systems
- Passing Score – Scaled score of 25 or higher
- Cost – $200 examination fee
Exam Preparation
Success on the CDR exam requires thorough preparation:
- Review official CDR study guides and practice tests
- Join study groups with other candidates
- Complete comprehensive review courses
- Focus on areas where you have less experience
Submit Your Certification/License Application
Once you pass the CDR exam, you can apply for dietitian licensure in Mississippi. The state offers both provisional and standard licensing options depending on your qualifications.
License Types and Requirements
| License Type | Requirements | Fee | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provisional License | Degree + supervised experience, CDR exam pending | $50 initial, $50 renewal | 1 year (up to 5 years total) |
| Standard License | Degree + supervised experience + passed CDR exam | $100 initial, $100 biennial renewal | 2 years per renewal cycle |
Application Process
To apply for licensure in Mississippi:
- Complete the Application for Dietitian/Nutritionist form
- Have the application notarized
- Submit required documentation (transcripts, CDR verification)
- Pay applicable fees
- Mail completed application to the Mississippi State Department of Health
Mailing Address:
Mississippi State Department of Health
Professional Licensure: Dietitians
Post Office Box 1700
Jackson, Mississippi 39215
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Licensed dietitians in Mississippi work across diverse settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community programs. The growing emphasis on preventive healthcare creates expanding opportunities for nutrition professionals.
Major Employers in Mississippi
Top employers for licensed dietitians include:
- Healthcare Systems – Mississippi Baptist Health Systems, University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Hospitals – Forrest General Hospital, Gulfport Memorial Hospital, St. Dominic Hospital
- Long-term Care – Brandon Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
- Insurance Companies – BlueCross BlueShield of Mississippi
- School Systems – Public school nutrition programs statewide
Specialty Practice Areas
Consider specializing in high-demand areas:
- Clinical Nutrition – Hospital-based medical nutrition therapy
- Pediatric Nutrition – Childhood obesity prevention and treatment
- Sports Nutrition – Athletic performance and recovery
- Geriatric Nutrition – Nutrition for aging populations
- Community Nutrition – Public health programs and education
Maintain Certification/License and Continuing Education
Mississippi requires ongoing continuing education to maintain your dietitian license. This ensures you stay current with evolving nutrition science and best practices.
Continuing Education Requirements
- Standard License – 30 clock hours every two years
- CDR Registration – 75 continuing professional education units every 5 years
- Approved Providers – Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, accredited universities, and professional organizations
Professional Development Opportunities
Advance your career through:
- Specialty certifications (CDE, CSSD, CSP)
- Graduate degree programs
- Professional conference attendance
- Research and publication activities
- Leadership roles in professional organizations
Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Mississippi
Mississippi faces significant health challenges, ranking among the highest in obesity rates nationally. This creates substantial opportunities for health coaches to make a meaningful impact through lifestyle and behavioral interventions.
Mississippi’s Health Challenge
According to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), Mississippi consistently ranks as one of the nation’s most obese states. This creates substantial opportunities for health coaches to address:
- Chronic disease prevention and management
- Childhood obesity intervention
- Diabetes prevention programs
- Cardiovascular health improvement
- Community wellness initiatives
Education and Certification Options
Health coaching doesn’t require state licensing, offering flexibility in educational pathways:
Degree Options
- Associate’s Degree – Health and wellness, applied science
- Bachelor’s Degree – Psychology, exercise science, health education, behavioral health
- Master’s Degree – Advanced specialization opportunities
Professional Certifications
- American Council on Exercise (ACE) – Health Coach Certification
- National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC) – Comprehensive certification programs
- International Coach Federation (ICF) – General coaching credentials
Career Opportunities
Health coaches in Mississippi find employment in diverse settings:
- Corporate wellness programs
- Insurance companies and health plans
- Community health centers
- Private practice and consulting
- Fitness centers and wellness facilities
- Telehealth and remote coaching platforms
Mississippi Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
Mississippi offers competitive compensation for licensed dietitians and nutritionists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides detailed salary information for nutrition professionals in the state. For a broader context on nutritionist salary expectations nationwide, explore comprehensive salary data across all states and specializations.
Average Salary Data
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,120 | $21.69 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,340 | $25.16 |
| Median (50th) | $61,780 | $29.70 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,290 | $35.24 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,150 | $42.86 |
Job Growth Projections
The nutrition field shows strong growth potential in Mississippi:
- Projected Growth – 6.7% increase through 2032
- Annual Openings – Approximately 180 positions per year
- Growth Drivers – Aging population, chronic disease prevention, healthcare emphasis on nutrition
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence earning potential for Mississippi nutritionists:
- Work Setting – Hospitals typically offer the highest salaries
- Experience Level – Salary increases with years of practice
- Education – Master’s degrees command higher compensation
- Specialization – Clinical nutrition and specialty certifications increase earning potential
- Geographic Location – Urban areas like Jackson offer higher salaries
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practice as a nutritionist in Mississippi without a license?
No. Mississippi law requires anyone providing nutrition services, medical nutrition therapy, or nutrition counseling to be a licensed dietitian. The title “nutritionist” is protected, and unlicensed practice is illegal.
How long does it take to become a licensed dietitian in Mississippi?
The typical timeline is 4-5 years: four years for a bachelor’s degree plus 6-12 months for supervised practice experience. Some students complete their degree and internship requirements simultaneously.
Can I get a provisional license while preparing for the CDR exam?
Yes. Mississippi offers provisional licenses for candidates who have completed education and supervised experience requirements but haven’t yet passed the CDR exam. Provisional licenses last one year and can be renewed up to five times.
What’s the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, both titles are protected and require the same dietitian licensing process. Whether you call yourself a dietitian or a nutritionist, you must be a licensed dietitian to legally provide nutrition services in the state.
Do I need to renew my Mississippi dietitian license?
Yes. Standard licenses require biennial renewal with 30 hours of continuing education. The renewal fee is $100 every two years.
Can I practice in Mississippi with a license from another state?
No. Mississippi doesn’t have reciprocity agreements. You must apply for Mississippi licensure, though your credentials from other states may streamline the process.
Key Takeaways
- Education is essential – You need a bachelor’s degree with specific coursework to meet CDR eligibility requirements
- Supervised experience is required – Complete at least 900 hours through an accredited internship or individualized program
- Licensing is mandatory – Mississippi requires dietitian licensure for anyone providing nutrition services
- Multiple pathways exist – Consider traditional dietetics or alternative health coaching careers
- Strong job market – Mississippi’s health challenges create growing demand for nutrition professionals
- Competitive salaries – Licensed dietitians earn an average of $61,780 annually, with room for advancement
- Continuing education is ongoing – Maintain licensure through 30 hours of continuing education every two years
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Mississippi?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed nutritionist in Mississippi. Explore accredited degree programs, connect with internship coordinators, and begin your journey toward making a difference in the Magnolia State’s health outcomes. For those interested in the registered dietitian pathway specifically, learn about becoming a registered dietitian in Mississippi with detailed step-by-step guidance.
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.
