To become a nutritionist in Montana, you must earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s or doctoral degree in dietetics, food and nutrition, or public health nutrition from an accredited program, complete 900 hours of supervised practice experience, pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam, and obtain licensure through the Montana Board of Medical Examiners.
Montana offers rewarding career opportunities for nutrition professionals who want to make a meaningful impact on public health in Big Sky Country. The state’s unique blend of rural communities and growing urban centers creates diverse pathways for nutritionists to serve populations with varied dietary needs. Whether you’re interested in clinical nutrition, community wellness programs, or private practice, Montana’s licensing framework provides clear steps to establish your professional credentials.
The Montana Board of Medical Examiners oversees the licensing and regulation of nutritionists practicing in the state. Montana requires nutritionists to meet specific educational standards and pass national certification examinations to ensure the highest quality of care. If you’re also considering the registered dietitian pathway, view how to become a registered dietitian in Montana for comparison.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Montana
- Gain Required Supervised Practice Experience
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Submit Your Montana Nutritionist License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Your License and Professional Development
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Montana
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Montana
Montana’s licensing requirements establish clear educational standards for aspiring nutritionists. The Montana Board of Medical Examiners recognizes nutritionists as individuals who have successfully completed advanced academic preparation in nutrition science from accredited institutions.
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.
Required Degrees
To qualify for nutritionist licensure in Montana, you must complete both:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in dietetics, food and nutrition, or public health nutrition
- Master’s degree or doctorate from an accredited institution in one of the same fields
These programs must come from colleges or universities that hold proper accreditation. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nutrition should verify that their chosen institution meets the standards for recognition in Montana.
Alternative Educational Pathways
Candidates who possess degrees in related fields but don’t meet the exact requirements listed above may apply directly to the Montana Board of Medical Examiners for individual evaluation. The Board reviews each applicant’s educational background, assesses fitness to practice, and determines whether the foundational requirements have been satisfied through equivalent coursework.
Accredited Nutrition Programs
The following programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by experienced nutrition professionals:
| Program Type | Typical Duration | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s in Dietetics | 4 years | Nutritional biochemistry, food science, clinical nutrition, community health |
| Master’s in Nutrition | 2 years | Advanced clinical practice, research methods, public health nutrition, and medical nutrition therapy |
| Doctorate in Nutrition | 3-5 years | Original research, advanced practice, leadership in nutrition science |
Gain Required Supervised Practice Experience
Montana requires all nutritionist candidates to complete documented, supervised practice experience before they are eligible for the CDR examination. This hands-on training ensures that new nutritionists develop practical competencies in real-world settings under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Supervised Practice Requirements
- Minimum hours: 900 hours of documented, supervised practice
- Supervision: Must be completed under a qualified preceptor (licensed nutritionist, registered dietitian, or approved supervisor)
- Documentation: Detailed logs and verification forms must be maintained
- Settings: Can include hospitals, community health centers, private practices, public health departments, or research facilities
Dietetic Internship Programs
Many candidates complete their supervised practice hours through structured dietetic internship (DI) programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Although Montana doesn’t have ACEND-accredited DI programs within the state, candidates can complete internships in neighboring states and still qualify for licensure in Montana.
Dietetic internships typically provide 1,200 supervised practice hours, exceeding Montana’s minimum requirement. These competitive programs combine rotations across multiple practice settings, offering exposure to clinical nutrition, community nutrition, and food service management.
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
Montana requires all nutritionist license candidates to pass the national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This comprehensive exam assesses knowledge across the full spectrum of nutrition practice domains.
CDR Exam Overview
- Exam name: Registration Examination for Dietitians
- Format: Computer-based test with 125 multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 3 hours
- Passing score: Scaled score of 25 or higher (out of 50)
- Test centers: Available at Pearson VUE locations nationwide
Exam Content Domains
| Domain | Percentage | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Principles of Dietetics | 15% | Food and nutrient composition, nutrition assessment, dietary guidelines |
| Nutrition Care | 40% | Medical nutrition therapy, nutrition diagnosis, and intervention strategies |
| Management of Services | 15% | Program planning, quality improvement, and food service systems |
| Food/Nutrition-Related Research | 30% | Research methods, evidence analysis, and application to practice |
Exam Eligibility
To sit for the CDR exam, you must have completed both the educational requirements and supervised practice experience outlined in Steps 1 and 2. Learn more about registered dietitian certification requirements and the CDR examination process.
Submit Your Montana Nutritionist License Application
After passing the CDR exam, you’re ready to apply for your Montana nutritionist license through the Montana Board of Medical Examiners. The application process requires careful attention to documentation and proper submission procedures.
Application Requirements
Complete the Application for Nutritionist License and submit the following:
- Application fee: $58.50 (make checks payable to Montana Board of Medical Examiners)
- Official transcripts: Must be sent directly from your degree-granting institutions to verify completion of the required education in nutrition
- Current CDR card: Provide a copy of your active Commission on Dietetic Registration credential
- NPDB self-query: Complete the National Practitioner Data Bank self-query and mail to the address provided in the instructions (available at www.npdb.hrsa.gov or by calling 1-800-767-6732)
- Verification of supervised practice: Documentation showing completion of the required 900 hours
Application Submission
Mail your completed application packet with all required documents and fees to:
Montana Board of Medical Examiners
P.O. Box 200513
Helena, MT 59620-0513
For questions about the application process, contact the Board at 406-841-2300
Processing Timeline
The Montana Board of Medical Examiners typically processes complete applications within four to six weeks. Incomplete applications or missing documentation can significantly delay the review process. Plan ahead and submit your materials well in advance of when you need to begin practice.
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Montana’s licensed nutritionists work across diverse settings, each offering unique opportunities to apply nutrition science in ways that improve individual and community health outcomes.
Scope of Practice
Montana law defines the scope of dietetic and nutrition practice specifically. Only licensed nutritionists may provide these services:
- Assess the nutrition needs of individuals and groups
- Establish priorities and objectives that align with available resources and constraints
- Develop, implement, and manage nutrition care systems
- Evaluate and maintain appropriate standards of quality in food and nutrition services
Employment Settings
The shift toward holistic healthcare has integrated nutritional therapy across Montana’s healthcare landscape. Licensed nutritionists find career opportunities in:
- Hospitals and medical centers: Billings Clinic, St. Patrick Hospital, Benefis Hospital, Kalispell Regional Medical Center, St. Vincent Healthcare
- Long-term care facilities: Missouri River Care and Rehabilitation Center, St. John’s Lutheran Home, Village Health Care Center, Park Place Healthcare Center, Valley Health Care Center, Billings Health and Rehab Community
- School districts: Billings Public Schools and other districts implementing nutrition education programs
- Government and public health: County health departments, state agencies, tribal health services
- Private practice: Independent consultations, wellness coaching, specialized nutrition counseling
- Corporate wellness: Employee health programs in Montana’s growing business sector
Specialization Opportunities
After establishing your Montana license, consider pursuing advanced certifications in specialty practice areas such as:
- Sports nutrition
- Pediatric nutrition
- Oncology nutrition
- Renal nutrition
- Diabetes care and education
- Gerontological nutrition
Maintain Your License and Professional Development
Montana nutritionist licenses remain valid for two years and must be renewed to maintain an active status.
License Renewal Requirements
- Renewal period: Every 2 years
- Renewal window: August 31 through October 31 biennially
- Renewal fee: $100
- Continuing education: Montana does not currently require continuing education for license renewal
While Montana doesn’t mandate continuing education for license renewal, maintaining your CDR credential requires ongoing professional development. The Commission on Dietetic Registration requires 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) every five years.
Professional Organizations
Membership in professional organizations supports your career development, provides networking opportunities, and keeps you informed about nutrition practice issues affecting Montana. Consider joining:
- Montana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – State affiliate connecting Montana nutrition professionals
- American Nutrition Association – National organization advancing integrative nutrition practice
- American Society for Nutrition – Research-focused organization promoting nutrition science
- School Nutrition Association – Specialized support for professionals in school nutrition programs
These organizations offer continuing education opportunities, practice resources, advocacy support, and connections to colleagues across Montana and beyond. Compare Montana’s requirements with those of other states’ nutritionists and dietitians if you’re considering multi-state practice or relocation.
Montana Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
Montana’s nutrition professionals earn competitive salaries that reflect the state’s cost of living and the specialized nature of nutrition practice. Understanding salary expectations helps you plan your education investment and career trajectory.
Current Salary Data
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nutritionists in Montana earned an average annual salary of $68,900 as of May 2024. This figure represents compensation across all experience levels and practice settings throughout the state.
| Experience Level | Typical Salary Range | Practice Settings |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $52,000 – $62,000 | Hospital rotations, community health, supervised practice |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $63,000 – $75,000 | Clinical nutrition, private practice, program management |
| Experienced (8-15 years) | $76,000 – $88,000 | Senior clinical roles, department leadership, specialized practice |
| Senior (15+ years) | $89,000+ | Executive leadership, private practice ownership, consulting |
Employment Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth for nutrition careers nationwide. Over the ten-year period leading up to 2032, Montana is expected to experience approximately 30 annual job openings for nutritionists, resulting from a combination of new position creation, retirements, and natural workforce turnover. The BLS projects a 19.4% increase in nutritionist positions in Montana during this timeframe, significantly outpacing average job growth across all occupations.
Factors Affecting Compensation
Several factors influence earning potential for Montana nutritionists:
- Geographic location: Larger cities like Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls typically offer higher salaries than rural areas
- Practice setting: Hospital-based positions often provide higher base salaries plus benefits, while private practice income varies with client volume
- Specialization: Advanced certifications in high-demand areas command premium compensation
- Years of experience: Salary increases steadily with demonstrated expertise and track record
- Additional credentials: Holding both a nutritionist license and an RD credential may increase opportunities and compensation
Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Montana
If you’re passionate about wellness but prefer a different educational path, health coaching offers an alternative career option in Montana’s growing preventive health sector. Health coaches support individuals in making lasting lifestyle changes related to nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and overall well-being.
Health Coaching in Montana’s Wellness Landscape
Montana faces significant public health challenges that health coaches help address. According to Healthy Gallatin, a resource through the Gallatin City-County Health Department, 24% of Montana residents struggle with obesity. Health coaches partner with local health departments, healthcare systems, and community organizations to support healthy eating initiatives and physical fitness programs.
Montana’s natural environment provides unique opportunities for health coaches to engage clients beyond traditional gym settings. The state’s extensive network of hiking trails, biking paths, skiing resorts, and two national parks offers diverse outdoor fitness activities that health coaches can incorporate into wellness programs.
Community Impact: Race Montana
Race Montana exemplifies how health coaches and fitness professionals create community wellness impact in Big Sky Country. Founded by athletic enthusiasts in central Montana, this organization encourages physical fitness through organized events, including the Race Montana Triathlon, Save the Ta Ta’s 5k, Burn the Bird 5k and 10k, and the Kickin’ Half Marathon and 10k.
Race Montana has expanded beyond events to support Great Falls’ development of the River’s Edge Trail, a 25-mile paved trail with an additional 35 miles of gravel paths. This infrastructure creates opportunities for health coaches to integrate outdoor fitness into client programming, demonstrating how Montana’s natural resources support active lifestyles.
Health Coach Education and Certification
Unlike nutritionist licensure, health coaching doesn’t require specific state licensing in Montana. However, professional certification demonstrates competency and improves employment prospects.
Degree Options
Educational pathways for health coaches vary based on career goals:
- Associate’s degree options: Health and wellness, applied nutrition, health sciences (suitable for some entry-level positions)
- Bachelor’s degree options (most common): Exercise science, health education, exercise physiology, health management, kinesiology, dietetics
- Master’s degree options: Public health, nutrition, health promotion, exercise science (beneficial for career changers with bachelor’s degrees in unrelated fields)
Professional Certification
Most employers require or strongly prefer professional certification. The ACE Health Coach Certification is one of several NCCA-accredited health coaching programs. Others include certifications from NASM, ACSM, and NBHWC. ACE offers standard and premium self-study packages to prepare for the certification examination.
ACE certification must be renewed every two years by completing approved continuing education. The ACE Certification Candidate Handbook provides comprehensive details about exam content, renewal requirements, and maintenance processes.
Other respected certifications include programs through ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), and the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching. Learn more about health coach career pathways at our comprehensive health coach guide.
Health Coach Career Opportunities in Montana
Montana’s health coaching positions span multiple sectors. Representative job opportunities include:
Wellness Professional – HealthFitness (Helena, MT)
Responsibilities: Promote health and wellness programs, interact with members and participants, provide health education and promotion for employees
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, exercise science, health promotion, or related field
- Minimum 2 years of related experience
- Current first aid and CPR/AED certification
- Personal training certification (ACE, ACSM, AFAA, NSCA, or NASM preferred)
- Experience coordinating programs, including budgeting, marketing, and promotions
Active After School Coordinator – Gallatin Valley YMCA (Bozeman, MT)
Responsibilities: Coordinate and oversee Active After School Club, monitor staff performance, and participant services
Requirements:
- 1-2 yearsof experience working with children
- 1-2 years of experience in health and wellness/fitness or related field (preferred)
- Current first aid and CPR/AED certifications
- Complete mandatory training within 30 days of hire (sexual harassment prevention, bloodborne pathogens, child abuse prevention)
Exercise Specialist – Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital (Bozeman, MT)
Responsibilities: Work as a Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab Exercise Physiologist, managing health risks and ensuring lasting behavior changes
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, exercise science, exercise physiology, or related field (required)
- Master’s degree inthe same fields (preferred)
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Health Care Providers certification
- ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist within 4 months of hire (required)
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) within 4 months of hire
- 500 hours of practical experience in a clinical exercise program
Local Health Resources
Montana health coaches can connect with these organizations for professional development and community partnerships:
- Mineral County, Montana Health Department
- Central Montana Health District
- Flathead City-County Health Department
- Healthy Gallatin
- Montana Public Health Association
- Montana Nutrition and Physical Activity Program
- Race Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a nutritionist in Montana?
Becoming a licensed nutritionist in Montana typically requires 6 to 8 years of education and training. This includes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s or doctorate, plus time to complete 900 hours of supervised practice experience and pass the CDR exam. The timeline may vary based on program structure and whether you attend full-time or part-time.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and registered dietitian in Montana?
Both nutritionists and registered dietitians in Montana must hold licenses through the Montana Board of Medical Examiners and pass the same CDR exam. The primary distinction lies in terminology and occasionally, specific educational pathway details. The Board oversees licensing for both titles, and both professionals can provide medical nutrition therapy and comprehensive nutrition services within Montana’s defined scope of practice.
Do I need a license to practice as a nutritionist in Montana?
Yes, Montana requires licensure for anyone providing nutrition assessment, developing nutrition care systems, or establishing nutrition-related priorities and objectives. Only licensed nutritionists are permitted to legally perform these services. Practicing without proper licensure violates Montana law and can result in penalties.
Can I become a nutritionist without a master’s degree in Montana?
Montana’s standard requirements include both a bachelor’s and a master’s or doctorate degree in dietetics, food and nutrition, or public health nutrition. However, candidates with alternative educational backgrounds may apply to the Montana Board of Medical Examiners for individual evaluation. The Board assesses whether your education provides equivalent foundational knowledge and competencies.
Does Montana have reciprocity with other states for nutritionist licenses?
Montana doesn’t have automatic reciprocity agreements, but the state recognizes credentials from other jurisdictions on a case-by-case basis. Montana does not have blanket reciprocity agreements; instead, it evaluates each application from other states on an individual basis. If you hold licensure in another state, contact the Montana Board of Medical Examiners to determine your eligibility for Montana licensure through endorsement. Having your CDR credential facilitates the process since Montana requires this national certification.
How much does it cost to become a nutritionist in Montana?
Education costs vary significantly based on your choice of institution and residency status. Montana residents attending the University of Montana or Montana State University pay lower tuition than private or out-of-state students. Additional costs include CDR exam fees (approximately $200), supervised practice program costs if applicable, license application fees ($58.50), and biennial renewal fees ($100).
What is the job outlook for nutritionists in Montana?
The job outlook for nutritionists in Montana is strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19.4% increase in nutritionist positions from 2022 to 2032, with approximately 30 annual job openings expected throughout the forecast period. This growth reflects the increasing recognition of nutrition’s role in preventive healthcare and the management of chronic diseases.
Can I practice as a nutritionist in Montana if I complete my education online?
Montana accepts degrees from accredited institutions regardless of delivery format, provided the programs meet educational standards and include required supervised practice components. Online programs must come from properly accredited colleges or universities. You’ll still need to complete 900 hours of in-person supervised practice experience, which cannot be fulfilled entirely through distance learning.
Key Takeaways
- Montana requires advanced education: Both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s or doctorate in nutrition-related fields from accredited institutions are mandatory for licensure.
- Supervised practice is essential: You must complete 900 documented hours of supervised practice experience before taking the CDR exam.
- National certification is required: Passing the Commission on Dietetic Registration examination is mandatory for licensure as a Montana nutritionist.
- Strong career outlook: Montana projects a 19.4% increase in nutritionist positions through 2032, with an average annual salary of $68,900.
- License maintenance is straightforward: Montana requires biennial renewal but doesn’t mandate continuing education (though maintaining CDR credentials does require ongoing professional development).
- Alternative pathways exist: Health coaching offers a different career option for wellness professionals interested in lifestyle change support without pursuing nutritionist licensure.
Ready to Begin Your Montana Nutrition Career?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed nutritionist in Montana by exploring accredited nutrition degree programs. Whether you’re starting your bachelor’s degree or ready to pursue graduate education, Montana’s nutrition career pathway offers rewarding opportunities to improve health outcomes across Big Sky Country.
Explore 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, nutritionists, and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary—data accessed September 2025.
