To become a nutritionist in New York, you need a bachelor’s degree in dietetics-nutrition with 45+ semester hours, complete 800 hours of supervised experience, and pass either the Registered Dietitian (CDR) or the Certified Nutrition Specialist (BCNS) examination. NY requires state certification through the Education Department, with alternative pathways available for associate degree holders with extensive experience.
New York offers excellent opportunities for nutrition professionals, with CDR’s last published by-state breakdown listing 7,188 RDs/RDNs in New York (as of April 11, 2022) according to the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Any use of the titles “Certified Dietitian,” “Certified Nutritionist,” or “Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist” within New York State requires certification through the State Education Department.
Whether you’re considering a career change or just starting your educational journey, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a certified nutritionist in New York, from education requirements to nutrition career options and salary expectations.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in New York
- Gain Required Supervised Experience
- Pass an Approved Examination (CDR RD or BCNS CNS)
- Submit Your Certification Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Certification and Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in New York
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in New York
New York requires specific educational qualifications for certification as a nutritionist. The New York State Education Department recognizes two primary pathways for meeting education requirements.
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.
Bachelor’s Degree Pathway
The most common route requires completion of a bachelor’s degree program that includes:
- Minimum 45 semester hours in dietetics/nutrition coursework
- At least 20 semester hours in human biological sciences and social/behavioral sciences
- ACEND accreditation (formerly CADE) or state-approved dietetics-nutrition program
Associate Degree Alternative Pathway
For experienced professionals, New York offers an alternative route:
- Associate’s degree in dietetics-nutrition (ACEND-accredited (formerly CADE) or state-approved)
- Minimum 30 semester hours in dietetics-nutrition
- At least 15 semester hours in biological and behavioral sciences
- A combination of ten full-time equivalent years of education and supervised experience within the 15 years preceding application
- At least 2.5 FTE years of planned work experience in dietetics-nutrition
- Endorsement of three acceptable dietitians-nutritionists
Programs to Research (verify ACEND or NYSED approval)
| Institution | Degree Type | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purdue University Global | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition | Online | Verify NY eligibility |
| Arizona State University | Master’s in Medical Nutrition | Online | Verify NY eligibility |
| University of North Carolina | MPH Nutrition Concentration | Online | Verify NY eligibility |
| Walden University | BS Health Studies | Online | Verify NY eligibility |
Note: Eligibility in NY generally requires an ACEND program or a NYSED-registered program.
Gain Required Supervised Experience
New York mandates hands-on experience to ensure practical competency in nutrition counseling and assessment.
Bachelor’s Degree Route Experience
Candidates with bachelor’s degrees must complete 800 hours of planned work experience (equivalent to one-half FTE year), including assessing nutrition needs and food patterns, preparing for/directing the provision of food appropriate for physical and nutritional needs, and providing nutrition counseling under qualifying supervision.
This experience can be completed as part of your educational program or after graduation, under the supervision of a NYS-certified dietitian-nutritionist or a member of an acceptable national nutrition association.
Associate Degree Route Experience
The alternative pathway requires more extensive experience, as outlined in the degree requirements section above.
Pass an Approved Examination (CDR RD or BCNS CNS)
New York accepts either the CDR Registered Dietitian exam or the BCNS Certified Nutrition Specialist exam to meet the examination requirement for certification.
Examination Options
New York candidates can choose between two approved examinations:
CDR Registered Dietitian Examination:
- Administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration
- Requires completion of an ACEND-accredited program and internship
- Covers clinical nutrition, community nutrition, and food service management
BCNS Certified Nutrition Specialist Examination:
- Administered by the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists
- Advanced nutrition science focus, including biochemistry, metabolism, and nutrient functions
- Clinical nutrition and research methodology components
- Professional practice, including ethics and counseling techniques
Application Process
Contact the appropriate testing body for examination details:
- CDR Registered Dietitian exam: Visit cdrnet.org for requirements and scheduling
- BCNS Certified Nutrition Specialist exam: Contact CBNS at 202-903-0267
Submit Your Certification Application
The final step involves submitting your complete application package to the New York State Education Department.
Required Documentation
Your application must include:
- Online Form 1 – Application for Certification ($294 fee)
- Form 2 – Certification of Professional Education
- Form 3E – Certification of Examination Results (submitted directly by CDR or BCNS)
- Form 4 – Applicant Professional Experience Record
- Form 4B – Report of Experience Record
- Form 4C – Report of Planned Work Experience
- Form 4E – Endorsement by Acceptable Dietitian-Nutritionist (if applicable)
Application Fees and Processing
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Certification Fee | $294 (application + first registration) | Processing times vary by volume |
| CDR RD Examination | Contact CDR | Exam score reporting handled by CDR |
| BCNS CNS Examination | Contact BCNS | Exam score reporting handled by BCNS |
Send your complete application and fee (payable to New York State Education Department) to:
New York State Education Department
Office of the Professions
P.O. Box 22063
Albany, NY 12201
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
New York offers a diverse range of career paths for certified nutritionists across various healthcare, wellness, and community settings.
Career Settings
New York offers diverse career paths for certified nutritionists across healthcare, wellness, and community settings:
- Hospitals and medical centers – Clinical nutrition support and patient counseling
- Private practice – Individual and group nutrition counseling
- Community health programs – Public nutrition education and outreach
- Corporate wellness – Employee health programs and workplace nutrition
- Sports nutrition – Athletic performance optimization for teams and individuals
- Long-term care facilities – Senior nutrition planning and medical nutrition therapy
Maintain Certification and Continuing Education
Once certified, New York nutritionists must maintain their credentials through ongoing professional development and renewal requirements.
Certification Renewal Requirements
New York certified dietitian-nutritionists must renew their certification every three years. Requirements include:
- Professional registration renewal – Submit renewal application and fees
- Continuing education credits – Complete required professional development hours
- Professional practice maintenance – Demonstrate ongoing work in the nutrition field
Professional Development Opportunities
Stay current with advancing nutrition science through:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Webinars and conferences
- Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists – Continuing education programs
- New York State Dietetic Association – Local professional networking and education
- Specialized certifications – Sports nutrition, clinical nutrition, or wellness coaching credentials
Nutritionist Salary and Job Market in New York
New York ranks among the top states for nutrition professionals, offering competitive salaries and strong employment opportunities.
2024 Salary Data
| Location | Employment Level | Mean Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York State | High employment | See BLS OEWS data* | 3rd nationally in employment |
| NYC Metro Area | Highest in the nation | See BLS OEWS data* | 1st nationally in employment |
*Source: BLS OEWS, May 2024, Dietitians and Nutritionists (SOC 29-1031). National median: $73,850 (BLS OOH, May 2024).
Job Growth Outlook
The nutrition field in New York shows strong growth potential driven by:
- Aging population – Increased need for nutrition counseling
- Preventive healthcare focus – Growing emphasis on nutrition in disease prevention
- Wellness industry expansion – Corporate and community wellness programs
- Chronic disease management – Diabetes, heart disease, and obesity prevention
Becoming a Health Coach in New York
New York’s diverse population creates unique opportunities for health coaches, particularly those with bilingual skills in Spanish or Chinese.
Health Coaching Education Options
While no specific degree is required for health coaching, recommended educational backgrounds include:
- Nutrition and Dietetics – Strong foundation in nutritional science
- Exercise Science – Physical activity and wellness focus
- Health Psychology – Behavior change expertise
- Holistic Health – Integrative wellness approaches
Professional Certifications
| Organization | Certification | Focus Area | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Council on Exercise (ACE) | Health Coach Certification | General Health Coaching | NCCA Accredited |
| Institute for Integrative Nutrition | Health Coach Program | Holistic Nutrition | NYSED BPSS-licensed (private career school) |
Sample Job Opportunities
Health coaching positions in New York often require bilingual skills due to the diverse population. Common requirements include:
- Community health organizations – Bilingual (Spanish/English or Chinese/English) preferred
- Healthcare systems – Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field
- Corporate wellness programs – Experience in service environments
- Immigrant services – Cultural competency and translation skills
Frequently Asked Questions
What education is required to become a nutritionist in New York?
New York requires either a bachelor’s degree with 45 or more semester hours in dietetics or nutrition, plus 20 hours in biological/behavioral sciences, or an associate’s degree with 10 years of experience and endorsements from three professionals.
How much do nutritionists make in New York?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, New York nutritionists earn an average annual salary of $80,500 statewide, with professionals in the NYC metro area earning $85,140 on average as of May 2024.
Do I need a license to practice nutrition in New York?
Yes, New York requires certification through the State Education Department. The titles “Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist,” “certified dietitian,” and “Certified Nutritionist” are legally protected and require state certification.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian in New York?
Both dietitians and nutritionists use the credential “Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist (CDN)”. NY accepts either the CDR RD exam or the BCNS CNS exam to meet the exam requirement for state certification.
How long does it take to become a certified nutritionist in New York?
With a bachelor’s degree, the process typically takes 4-5 years, including education and the required 800 hours of supervised experience. The alternative pathway involves a combination of ten full-time equivalent years of education and experience. Learn more about becoming a nutritionist in other states for comparison.
Can I practice nutrition in New York with a degree from an out-of-state institution?
Yes, but your degree program must be ACEND-accredited or meet New York’s specific requirements. You’ll still need to complete supervised experience and pass either the RD (CDR) or CNS (BCNS) exam for state certification.
Key Takeaways
- New York requires state certification for nutrition professionals who use protected titles.
- Two education pathways available – a bachelor’s degree with 800 hours of experience, or an associate’s degree with extensive experience
- Two examination options – CDR Registered Dietitian exam or BCNS Certified Nutrition Specialist exam
- ACEND accreditation is important – Verify the program meets New York’s requirements for eligibility
- Strong job market with competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities statewide
- Ongoing requirements include certification renewal and continuing education to maintain credentials.
- Diverse opportunities exist in clinical settings and health coaching, especially for bilingual professionals. Learn how to become a registered dietitian in New York as a nutritionist for additional information on career pathways.
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in New York?
Take the first step toward becoming a certified nutritionist by exploring accredited degree programs that meet New York’s requirements. With strong job growth and competitive salaries, now is an excellent time to enter this rewarding field.
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.
