To become a licensed nutritionist in New Jersey, you need a master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition from an accredited institution, complete 1,000 hours of supervised experience, and pass either the BCNS or the American Clinical Board of Nutrition examination. New Jersey started licensing nutritionists in January 2021.
Nutritionists remain a powerful tool in the fight against obesity in New Jersey. By providing clients with informative assessments, personalized diet plans, and food-related counseling, nutritionists are helping to popularize preventive solutions for future generations. The adult obesity rate in New Jersey was 27.7% as of the most recent data from the CDC. Historical comparisons vary depending on the timeframe. Statistics from the New Jersey Department of Health illustrate the prevalence of obesity among state residents:
- 14 percent of New Jersey youth ages 10-17 were obese
- 9 percent of high schoolers in New Jersey (grades 9-12) were classified as obese
- 27.7 percent of New Jersey’s adult residents were obese
If you’re interested in joining the fight against obesity and helping New Jersey residents achieve better health through nutrition, you’re in the right place. View how to become a registered dietitian in New Jersey here for information about the RDN credential pathway.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in New Jersey
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass Required Examination
- Submit Your Certification/License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Your Registration and License
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in New Jersey
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in New Jersey
In order to become a licensed nutritionist in New Jersey, the State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition says that you must have a master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition or a related field from an accredited college or university. This is a critical requirement that distinguishes New Jersey from states that allow bachelor ‘s-level nutritionists to 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.
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.
Approved Fields of Study
Related fields that meet New Jersey’s education requirements include:
- Human nutrition
- Food and nutrition
- Community nutrition
- Public health nutrition
- Nutrition education
- Nutrition science
- Clinical nutrition
- Applied clinical nutrition
- Nutrition counseling
- Nutrition and functional medicine
- Nutritional biochemistry
- Nutrition and integrative health
Required Coursework
In addition to your master’s or doctoral degree, you must have completed courses in medical nutrition therapy, including:
- 15 semester hours of clinical or life sciences, with at least three semester hours in human anatomy and physiology
- 15 semester hours of nutrition and metabolism, with at least six semester hours in biochemistry
Recommended Degree Programs in New Jersey
Some examples of degrees that would lend themselves well to becoming a licensed nutritionist in New Jersey are:
- Master of Public Health in Public Health Nutrition – Rutgers University, New Brunswick
- Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition – Rutgers University, Newark
- Master of Science in Nutrition and Food Science – Montclair State University, Montclair
- Master of Science in Nutrition – Saint Elizabeth University, online program
The following bachelor’s and master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more about what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Gain Required Supervised Experience
Besides holding the education listed above, you must also have completed a board-approved internship or supervised experience to fulfill practical experiential requirements before a nutritionist license will be granted in New Jersey.
Experience Requirements
You must complete 1,000 hours of providing nutrition care services and medical nutrition therapy, with at least:
- 200 hours in nutrition assessment – Evaluating clients’ nutritional status through comprehensive health histories, dietary analysis, and physical measurements
- 200 hours of nutrition intervention, education, counseling or management – Developing and implementing personalized nutrition care plans, conducting one-on-one counseling sessions, and providing group education
- 200 hours of nutrition monitoring or evaluation – Tracking client progress, adjusting care plans based on outcomes, and documenting the effectiveness of interventions
Approved Supervisors
This experience must be completed under the supervision of one of the following qualified professionals:
- Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS)
- Diplomate of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition (DACBN)
- Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
- Licensed dietitian nutritionist or licensed nutritionist in New Jersey
- State-licensed health care provider who provides nutrition services
- A person with a doctoral degree in the field of nutrition
It’s essential to document all supervised hours accurately, as you’ll need to provide verification of this experience when applying for your license. Keep detailed logs of your activities, client interactions, and supervisor sign-offs throughout your supervised practice period.
Pass Required Examination
You must pass an examination before you receive a nutritionist license in New Jersey. The state accepts certifications from two nationally recognized organizations.
Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS)
The Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists offers the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) credential. This comprehensive examination tests your knowledge in:
- Advanced nutrition science
- Biochemistry and metabolism
- Clinical nutrition assessment
- Nutrition intervention strategies
- Research methodology
- Professional practice standards
American Clinical Board of Nutrition (ACBN)
The American Clinical Board of Nutrition provides the Diplomate certification. This examination focuses on:
- Clinical nutrition practice
- Nutritional biochemistry
- Medical nutrition therapy
- Patient assessment and counseling
- Evidence-based practice
Examination Exemption
If you already hold a valid current certification with the BCNS that gives you the right to use the title Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) or a valid current certification with the American Clinical Board of Nutrition that gives you the right to use the title Diplomate, American Clinical Board of Nutrition (DACBN), you may be exempt from the examination requirement.
Learn more about nutritionist certification programs and requirements nationwide.
Submit Your Certification/License Application
Once you’ve completed your education, supervised experience, and examination, you’re ready to apply for your nutritionist license in New Jersey.
Application Requirements
To be eligible for a nutritionist license in New Jersey, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be of good moral character
- Submit a completed application to the State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition
- Submit the fees required by the board
- Submit proof of completion of educational, experiential, and examination requirements
Special Provisions for Current Practitioners
New Jersey implemented nutritionist licensing on January 13, 202,1, through the Dietetics and Nutrition Licensing Act. The law included a one-year grandfather clause (January 13, 2021, to January 13, 2022) for practitioners already working in the field.
During that transitional period, any person practicing or living in New Jersey could apply for a license with reduced requirements if they met all of the following:
- At least 18 years of age
- Of good moral character
- Held at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with 30 credit hours or a major concentration in nutrition or related fields
- Had been employed at least part-time as a nutritionist providing nutrition care services regularly for three of the previous five years
This grandfather clause has now expired, and all new applicants must meet the full master’s degree requirements outlined in Step 1.
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Licensed nutritionists in New Jersey work in diverse settings, helping individuals and communities achieve better health outcomes through evidence-based nutrition interventions.
Common Work Settings
- Healthcare facilities – Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities
- Private practice – Independent consulting, group practices, wellness centers
- Corporate wellness – Employee health programs, onsite nutrition services
- Community health – Public health departments, nonprofit organizations
- Food service management – Healthcare foodservice, commercial food operations
- Research institutions – Universities, medical centers, pharmaceutical companies
- Education – Universities, community colleges, continuing education programs
Recent Job Opportunities in New Jersey
Those seeking licensed nutritionist jobs in New Jersey may find a wide variety of opportunities available. Recent job postings in the state include:
- Clinical Nutrition Manager at Sodexo in Paramus
- Nutrition Care Manager at Compass Group in West Orange
- Clinical Dietitian Nutritionist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in nearby New York City
- Nutritionist at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick
Specialization Opportunities
As a licensed nutritionist, you can pursue additional certifications in specialized areas such as:
- Sports nutrition
- Pediatric nutrition
- Gerontological nutrition
- Renal nutrition
- Oncology nutrition
- Diabetes education and management
- Weight management
- Integrative and functional nutrition
Maintain Your Registration and License
Maintaining your nutritionist license in New Jersey requires ongoing professional development to ensure you stay current with the latest evidence-based nutrition research and clinical practices.
Continuing Education Requirements
Licensed nutritionists must maintain their national certification (CNS or DACBN) to keep their New Jersey license active. Each certifying body has specific continuing education requirements:
CNS Recertification (through BCNS):
- 75 continuing professional education credits every 5 years
- Minimum of 15 credits per year
- Credits must be from approved providers
DACBN Recertification (through ACBN):
- 50 continuing education credits every 5 years
- Credits must be relevant to clinical nutrition practice
- Various formats accepted, including conferences, online courses, and publications
Professional Development Opportunities
Professional associations and organizations that licensed nutritionists in New Jersey may consider joining include:
- The New Jersey Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- New Jersey School Nutrition Association
- New Jersey Partnership for Healthy Kids
- Center for Food Action
- Community Food Bank of New Jersey
- Meeting Essential Needs with Dignity Hunger Relief Network
These organizations offer networking opportunities, continuing education programs, and advocacy efforts that support the nutrition profession in New Jersey.
Nutritionist Salary and Job Market in New Jersey
New Jersey offers competitive compensation for nutrition professionals, reflecting the state’s high cost of living and strong demand for qualified practitioners.
Salary Expectations
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dietitians and nutritionists in New Jersey earned an average salary of $80,670 as of May 2023. The average salary for these professionals is often higher in the state’s large metro areas, like the NYC-Newark-Jersey City metro area, which reported an average salary of $85,140 during this time.
Employment Projections
According to the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), there were over 2,000 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in New Jersey as of recent reports. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% national increase in dietitian and nutritionist jobs through 2032. State-specific projections for New Jersey are not publicly available.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors can influence your earning potential as a licensed nutritionist in New Jersey:
- Geographic location – Urban areas and northern New Jersey typically offer higher salaries
- Work setting – Healthcare facilities and private practice often pay more than community health positions
- Experience level – Senior practitioners with 5+ years of experience command premium compensation
- Specialization – Specialized certifications (sports nutrition, oncology nutrition) can increase earning potential
- Advanced degrees – Doctoral degrees may qualify you for research and academic positions with higher pay
Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in New Jersey
If you’re interested in nutrition and wellness but want a different career path than a licensed nutritionist, health coaching offers an accessible alternative with growing demand in New Jersey.
Why Consider Health Coaching?
The American College of Sports Medicine’s annual survey has listed health and wellness coaching among its top 20 international fitness trends every year since 2010. Health coaching is a field that you can break into whether you’re just starting out or want to change careers in mid-life.
Success Stories from New Jersey Health Coaches
Health coach Kathy Dickson of Newfield was an industrial engineer for 30 years. After retiring, she sought health coaching education and certification and now owns an independent health and wellness company, Vital Body Wellness. Dickson counsels clients individually and in small groups. She has also provided health education to corporations that have requested her services.
Another New Jersey health coach, Suzanne Taylor-King of Marlton, specializes in holistic life coaching through her independent practice. She helps clients find time to improve their own health and then holds them accountable to the goals they set together. In this way, Taylor-King is helping clients not only to improve physical health but to learn to better manage time and stress in their lives.
Growing Demand in Healthcare
New Jersey’s Courier-Post suggests that the health coaching profession is gaining ground due to the Affordable Care Act, which is shifting the healthcare industry towards prevention to keep medical costs down. Virtua, a health system in New Jersey, employs community-based health managers to oversee patients with chronic illnesses who face frequent hospitalizations. These managers act as health coaches to patients, ensuring that they receive all the diagnostic testing their illnesses require and that they receive the right care at the right time.
Education Requirements for Health Coaches
Health coaches are not required to be professionally registered, licensed, or certified in New Jersey. This means you have more flexibility when it comes to the type of degree you pursue, as long as it’s health-related.
Most health coaching jobs in New Jersey require a bachelor’s degree. Some positions may require applicants who are Registered Dietitians (RD), which would involve qualifying for registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Degree Options for Health Coaching
Associate degree programs that can help you qualify for entry-level health coaching positions:
- Associate of Science in Health Sciences
- Associate in Science in Health/Physical Education/Recreation
- Associate in Applied Science in Health Sciences
- Associate of Science in Exercise Science
Bachelor’s degree majors that many of New Jersey’s top employers of health coaches look for:
- Nutrition and Food Science
- Integrative Health Coaching
- Holistic Health
- Health/Physical Education
- Exercise Science
- Public Health Education
Graduate programs for career changers with bachelor’s degrees in other fields:
- Master of Science in Health Science – Integrative Health Coaching
- Master of Science in Exercise Science and Physical Education
- Graduate Certificate in Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Graduate Certificate in Health Coaching
Professional Certification for Health Coaches
Many health and wellness coaches in New Jersey elect to pursue professional certification. These accredited and professionally recognized organizations provide optional credentials to qualified individuals:
American Council on Exercise (ACE) – The ACE is the sole professional health coaching certification that has earned accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Two levels of health coaching certification, standard and premium, are offered.
International Coach Federation (ICF) – As an internationally recognized health coach certification foundation, this program provides credentials for Associate Certified Coach (ACC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Master Certified Coach (MCC).
IPEC – This program, accredited by the ICF, is based in New Jersey and provides health coach certification to international clients. Their Health and Wellness Coach Certification Program provides the credential Certified Health and Wellness Coach to qualified candidates.
Learn more about becoming a health coach and explore certification options nationwide.
Health Coaching Career Opportunities in New Jersey
The following job vacancy examples represent the types of employment opportunities available to properly credentialed health coaches in New Jersey:
Health Coach for Corporate Wellness Program – Port Reading, NJ
- Coordinate and conduct biometric screening appointments
- Collect health history and engage members in wellness programs
- Promote goals for fitness, weight loss, and nutrition
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field, three years of health and wellness experience
Wellness Program Consultant – Moorestown, NJ
- Design, coordinate, and deliver health programming
- Coach participants to make behavior changes
- Work with outside vendors and oversee health events
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, account management skills,and ability to travel locally
Health and Wellness Specialist for Behavioral Health – Hammonton, NJ
- Coordinate health and wellness education for mental health clients
- Develop and conduct wellness activities and programs
- Provide disease management education
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, certification as a Health Education Specialist (CHES), or wellness coach certification
Nutrition Coach for Fitness Center – Mount Laurel, NJ
- Provide nutrition consultations and coaching sessions
- Facilitate seminars and group nutrition events
- Engage members in nutrition programs and services
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in nutrition/dietetics/exercise science, RDN or CNS certification preferred
Comparing Nutrition Career Paths in New Jersey
Understanding the differences between licensed nutritionists, registered dietitians, and health coaches can help you choose the right career direction.
| Credential | Education Required | Supervised Experience | Exam Required | NJ Licensing | Average Salary (NJ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Nutritionist (CNS) | Master’s or Doctoral degree in nutrition or related field | 1,000 hours minimum | BCNS or ACBN certification exam | Required (effective Jan 2021) | $80,670 |
| Registered Dietitian (RDN) | Master’s degree (required as of 2024) | 1,200 hours minimum | CDR Registration Exam | Required (effective Jan 2021) | $80,670 |
| Health Coach | Bachelor’s degree (typical), Associate’s for entry-level | Varies by program | Optional (ACE, ICF, IPEC certifications available) | Not required | Varies widely ($35,000-$65,000) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a nutritionist make in New Jersey?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dietitians and nutritionists in New Jersey earned an average salary of $80,670 as of May 2023. Salaries in the NYC-Newark-Jersey City metro area averaged $85,140. Your actual earnings will depend on factors like your work setting, experience level, specialization, and geographic location within the state.
Do I need a license to practice as a nutritionist in New Jersey?
Yes, New Jersey requires nutritionists to be licensed. The state implemented nutritionist licensing on January 13, 2021 through the Dietetics and Nutrition Licensing Act. To practice as a nutritionist in New Jersey, you must hold a license through the State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition, which requires a master’s or doctoral degree, supervised experience, and passing a national certification exam.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian in New Jersey?
Both licensed nutritionists and registered dietitians are licensed in New Jersey and provide nutrition counseling. The primary difference lies in the credentialing path: nutritionists typically earn the CNS credential through the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists, whereas registered dietitians earn the RDN credential through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Both require master’s degrees, supervised experience, and national exams, but the specific requirements differ slightly.
How long does it take to become a licensed nutritionist in New Jersey?
The timeline typically ranges from 6 to 8 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s or doctoral degree, 6-12 months to complete 1,000 hours of supervised experience, and 1-3 months for exam preparation and application processing. If you’re pursuing your education part-time or working while gaining supervised experience, the timeline may be longer.
Can I become a nutritionist with a bachelor’s degree in New Jersey?
No, New Jersey requires a master’s or doctoral degree to become a licensed nutritionist. The state’s grandfather clause that allowed bachelor ‘s-level practitioners to become licensed expired in January 2022. If you currently hold a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, you’ll need to complete a graduate program before you can apply for licensure in New Jersey.
What jobs can I get as a licensed nutritionist in New Jersey?
Licensed nutritionists in New Jersey work in diverse settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices, corporate wellness programs, public health departments, research institutions, and educational facilities. Common job titles include clinical nutrition manager, nutrition care manager, wellness consultant, research nutritionist, and nutrition educator. Specialized positions are also available in areas like sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, and oncology nutrition.
Is the CNS exam difficult?
The Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) exam is comprehensive and requires thorough preparation. It tests advanced knowledge in nutrition science, biochemistry, clinical assessment, and professional practice. Most candidates spend 3-6 months preparing for the exam using study guides, practice tests, and review courses. The pass rate varies, but candidates with strong academic backgrounds and clinical experience typically perform well with adequate preparation.
Can I practice as a health coach without a license in New Jersey?
Yes, health coaches are not required to be licensed in New Jersey. However, you cannot use protected titles like “nutritionist” or “dietitian” without proper licensing. Health coaches typically hold bachelor’s degrees in health-related fields and may pursue optional certifications from organizations like ACE, ICF, or IPEC. This makes health coaching a more accessible alternative career path for those interested in nutrition and wellness.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey licensing started January 13, 2021 – All practicing nutritionists must now be licensed through the State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition
- Master’s or doctoral degree required – New Jersey is one of the few states requiring graduate-level education for nutritionist licensure
- 1,000 hours supervised experience minimum – Experience must be documented across nutrition assessment, intervention, and monitoring
- Two examination options – Pass either the BCNS exam (for CNS credential) or ACBN exam (for DACBN credential)
- Average salary: $80,670 – New Jersey nutritionists earn competitive salaries, with higher averages in metro areas (May 2023 data)
- 7% national job growth projected – Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for dietitian and nutritionist positions through 2032
- Health coaching offers an alternative pathway – For those interested in nutrition and wellness without graduate-level requirements
Ready to Launch Your Nutrition Career in New Jersey?
Whether you choose the licensed nutritionist path with the CNS credential, pursue registration as a dietitian through the RDN pathway, or explore health coaching as an alternative, New Jersey offers excellent opportunities in the field of nutrition. With growing demand driven by increasing obesity rates and a cultural shift toward preventive healthcare, now is an ideal time to begin your journey toward helping others achieve better health through evidence-based nutrition counseling.
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.
The investment in graduate education and supervised experience will prepare you for a rewarding career where you can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. New Jersey’s competitive salaries and diverse employment settings mean you’ll have the flexibility to find a work environment that aligns with your interests and professional goals.
Start by researching accredited graduate programs, connecting with licensed nutritionists in your area for informational interviews, and exploring internship opportunities that can provide the supervised experience hours you need. With dedication and proper planning, you can successfully navigate the path to becoming a licensed nutritionist in New Jersey.
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.
