To become a licensed nutritionist in Pennsylvania, you need a baccalaureate or higher from a regionally accredited college or university in human nutrition, food and nutrition, dietetics, or food systems management, complete 900 hours of supervised practice, and pass an approved examination — CDR’s Registered Dietitian exam or BCNS/ANA’s Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) exam. Pennsylvania requires licensure through the State Board of Nursing, and the process typically takes 4-6 years (program + practice + exam + licensure).
Pennsylvania is one of the states that requires licensure for nutritionists and dietitians. The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing oversees the licensing of dietitians and nutritionists through authority granted by the Professional Nursing Law, which was amended in 2002 to include nutrition professionals. Only licensed dietitians and nutritionists may use the title or abbreviation LDN in Pennsylvania.
Whether you’re a recent graduate exploring nutrition as a career or a healthcare professional looking to specialize, this guide walks you through Pennsylvania’s specific requirements, examination options, and career pathways. For information about the registered dietitian pathway, see our guide on how to become a registered dietitian in Pennsylvania.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Pennsylvania
- Gain Required Supervised Practice Experience
- Pass an Approved Nutritionist Examination
- Submit Your Pennsylvania LDN License Application
- Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
- Maintain Your License and Continuing Education
- Alternative Path: Becoming a Health Coach in Pennsylvania
Complete Nutritionist Education Requirements in Pennsylvania
The foundation of your nutritionist career begins with proper education. The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing requires a baccalaureate or higher from a regionally accredited college or university with a major in one of the Board-specified fields. Select ACEND-accredited coursework if you intend to sit for the CDR (RD/RDN) exam.
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
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
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.
Required Educational Background
Your degree must include a major course of study in one of these fields:
- Human Nutrition – Focuses on how nutrients affect human health and disease prevention
- Food and Nutrition – Combines food science with nutritional biochemistry
- Dietetics – Prepares students for clinical nutrition practice
- Food Systems Management – Integrates nutrition with food service operations
Choosing Your Educational Pathway
While Pennsylvania law specifies regionally accredited programs in the majors listed above, your choice of program should align with your examination pathway:
- If pursuing CDR’s RD/RDN credential: Choose an ACEND-accredited program (required for CDR eligibility)
- If pursuing CNS credential: Graduate-level nutrition program with specified coursework in biochemistry, metabolism, and clinical sciences
- Both pathways: Must meet Pennsylvania’s supervised practice requirements
ACEND-Accredited Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers numerous ACEND-accredited nutrition programs at various degree levels. When selecting a program, verify its accreditation status directly with ACEND if you plan to pursue the CDR pathway.
The following programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field:
| Degree Level | Typical Duration | Key Focus Areas | Career Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Basic nutrition science, food service, dietary assessment | Entry roles (e.g., dietary aide). Does not meet the PA LDN education requirement. |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | Nutritional biochemistry, medical nutrition therapy, and community nutrition | Meets PA LDN education requirement (with additional practice and exam) |
| Master’s Degree | 2 years (post-bachelor’s) | Advanced clinical practice, nutrition research, specialized populations | Required for RD/RDN (as of Jan 2024); meets CNS and PA LDN requirements |
Essential Coursework
Pennsylvania-approved programs typically include coursework in:
- Nutritional biochemistry and metabolism
- Medical nutrition therapy
- Community and public health nutrition
- Food science and food safety
- Lifespan nutrition (pediatric through geriatric)
- Nutrition assessment and counseling
- Research methods and evidence-based practice
Gain Required Supervised Practice Experience
Pennsylvania requires at least 900 hours of planned and continuous pre-professional experience in dietetic practice. This supervised practice component bridges academic learning with real-world application.
Supervised Practice Requirements
The Board-approved supervised practice must include:
- Minimum Hours: 900 hours of documented supervised practice for PA LDN licensure
- Board Approval: Your program must be approved by the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing
- Continuous Nature: Experience should follow a planned, progressive curriculum
- Professional Supervision: Must be overseen by qualified nutrition professionals
Types of Supervised Practice Programs
| Program Type | Hours Required | Setting | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coordinated Program (CP) | 900+ hours integrated | Built into bachelor’s or graduate degree programs | Students seeking a streamlined path |
| Dietetic Internship (DI) | ~1,000-1,200 hours (program-specific; CDR eligibility) | Post-bachelor’s supervised practice | Graduates with didactic program completion pursuing RD/RDN |
| Graduate Program | ~1,000-1,200 hours (program-specific; CDR eligibility) | Integrated with a master’s degree | Those pursuing advanced credentials and the RD/RDN pathway |
Practice Experience Areas
Your supervised practice will typically cover:
- Clinical nutrition in healthcare settings
- Community nutrition program planning and implementation
- Food service systems management
- Nutrition counseling and education
- Population-specific nutrition interventions
Pass an Approved Nutritionist Examination
Pennsylvania requires passing an approved examination to demonstrate competency. The Board approves two examination pathways, each with specific eligibility requirements.
Option 1: CDR’s Registered Dietitian Examination
The Commission on Dietetic Registration examination is administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration and leads to RD or RDN credentials, which satisfy Pennsylvania’s LDN examination requirement.
Eligibility Requirements (Updated January 1, 2024):
- Graduate degree (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited institution
- Completion of ACEND-accredited coursework requirements
- Completion of ACEND-accredited supervised practice (~1,000 hours minimum)
- Application approval from CDR
Exam Details:
- Format: Computer-based adaptive test
- Length: Variable-length exam (~125-145 scored questions)
- Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
- Content areas: Principles of dietetics, nutrition care, management, food service
- Passing score: Scaled score of 25 or higher
- Cost: $200 registration fee (subject to change)
Option 2: BCNS/ANA’s Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) Examination
The CNS examination is administered by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS), a credential of the American Nutrition Association (ANA). This pathway is particularly suited for individuals with a graduate-level education in nutrition or a related clinical field.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition, OR
- Doctoral degree in the clinical healthcare field with at least 15 semester hours in nutrition and metabolism (including 6 hours in biochemistry)
- At least 15 semester hours in clinical or life sciences (including 3 hours in anatomy/physiology)
- Minimum 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience
Exam Details:
- Format: Computer-based comprehensive examination
- Content areas: Advanced nutrition assessment, medical nutrition therapy, nutritional biochemistry
- Focus: Clinical nutrition and disease management
- Administered at testing centers nationwide
| Examination | Best For | Education Requirement | Practice Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CDR RD/RDN Exam | Traditional dietetics pathway | Graduate degree + ACEND coursework | ~1,000 hours (ACEND-accredited) |
| BCNS/ANA CNS Exam | Advanced clinical specialists, graduate-prepared nutrition professionals | Master’s or doctorate in nutrition or a clinical field | 1,000 hours supervised practice |
Exam Preparation Tips
- Begin studying 3-4 months before your exam date
- Use official practice exams and review courses from credentialing bodies
- Focus on weak content areas identified through practice testing
- Join study groups or online forums
- Review current evidence-based guidelines and position papers
Submit Your Pennsylvania LDN License Application
Once you’ve completed your education, supervised practice, and examination, you’re ready to apply for licensure through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.
Online Application Through PALS
Pennsylvania uses the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) for online license applications. This streamlined process enables you to submit documentation electronically and track the status of your application.
Application Steps:
- Create an account in the PALS system
- Complete the online Application for Dietitian-Nutritionist License
- Upload required documentation:
- Official transcripts showing degree completion
- Verification of CDR registration (if applicable) or CNS certification
- Verification of supervised practice completion from the program director
- Proof of examination passage
- Pay current application and licensure fees through PALS
- Submit the application electronically
Required Documentation by Pathway
For Applicants with CDR Registration (RD/RDN):
- Request CDR to send a verification letter directly to the Board
- Upload official transcripts
- Complete the application in PALS
- Pay applicable fees
For Applicants with CNS Certification:
- Request BCNS to send verification of certification to the Board
- Submit official transcripts showing a graduate degree
- Provide documentation of supervised practice hours
- Complete the application in PALS
- Pay applicable fees
Processing Timeline
Processing times vary based on application completeness and Board workload:
- Initial review: 2-4 weeks
- Request for additional information: 1-2 weeks (if needed)
- License issuance: 4-8 weeks from complete application
- Check application status through your PALS account
Contact Information for Questions
- Phone: 717-783-7142
- Email: [email protected]
- Online Portal: PALS system
Application Tips
- Ensure all forms are complete before submission
- Request verification documents early, as institutions may take 2-3 weeks to process
- Keep copies of all submitted documents
- Monitor your PALS account for status updates and Board requests
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
Explore Career Opportunities and Specializations
Pennsylvania offers diverse career opportunities for licensed nutritionists in various settings, including clinical, community, research, and private practice.
Common Career Paths
- Clinical Nutritionist: Work in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers providing medical nutrition therapy
- Community Nutritionist: Develop and implement nutrition programs for public health agencies
- Food Service Manager: Oversee nutrition services in schools, healthcare facilities, or corporate settings
- Sports Nutritionist: Work with athletes and fitness enthusiasts to optimize performance
- Pediatric Nutritionist: Specializes in childhood nutrition and growth
- Oncology Nutritionist: Support cancer patients through nutrition interventions
- Private Practice Nutritionist: Provide personalized nutrition counseling and wellness coaching
Pennsylvania Employment Outlook
According to the Commission on Dietetic Registration, Pennsylvania has one of the largest populations of registered dietitians and nutritionists in the nation. The state’s diverse healthcare system, research institutions, and population health needs create strong demand for nutrition professionals.
Pennsylvania offers competitive salaries for nutrition professionals. For comprehensive salary data across various settings and specializations, see our nutritionist salary data guide.
Specialization Opportunities
After gaining experience, you can pursue board certification in specialized areas:
| Specialty | Certifying Body | Focus Area | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) | CDR | Cancer care | 2,000 hours of oncology experience |
| Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR) | CDR | Kidney disease | 2,000 hours of renal experience |
| Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP) | CDR | Children and adolescents | 2,000 hours of pediatric experience |
| Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) | CBDCE | Diabetes management | 2 years of professional experience |
Maintain Your License and Continuing Education
Pennsylvania requires licensed nutritionists to maintain their credentials through continuing professional education and timely license renewal.
Renewal Requirements
- Renewal Period: Every two years
- Continuing Education: Minimum 30 hours of Board-approved CPE credits per renewal period
- Deadline: License expires on the last day of your birth month in the renewal year
- Renewal Fee: See the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing website for current renewal fees
Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirements
CPE must be Board-approved and related to nutrition and dietetics practice. Retain records of all CPE activities for at least 4 years in case of audit.
Approved CPE Providers:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
- American College of Nutrition (ACN)
- Individual state dietetic associations
- Member associations of AND or ACN
- Approved colleges and dietetic programs (with certificate of attendance)
- Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME)
- Accreditation Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE)
- American Osteopathic Association
- American Medical Association
Acceptable CPE Activities
You can apply to the Board for CPE credit approval for:
- Case presentations
- Academic coursework and research approved by institutional review boards
- Interactive workshops and seminars
- Lectures related to dietetics-nutrition practice
- Post-baccalaureate residency and fellowship programs sponsored by accredited institutions
Record Keeping Best Practices
- Maintain documentation of all CPE activities
- Keep records for at least 4 years
- Include certificates of completion, attendance records, and activity descriptions
- Track credits throughout the renewal period
- Be prepared to provide verification if audited by the Board
Pennsylvania Nutritionist Salary and Job Market
Pennsylvania offers competitive compensation for nutrition professionals across diverse settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dietitians and nutritionists in Pennsylvania earned an average annual salary of $68,810 as of May 2024 (BLS OEWS, May 2024). The Philadelphia metropolitan area offered higher average annual salaries of $73,890 (BLS OEWS, May 2024).
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary | Typical Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (0-2 years) | $48,000 – $55,000 | Clinical nutritionist, WIC counselor |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $58,000 – $70,000 | Senior nutritionist, program coordinator |
| Experienced (8-15 years) | $70,000 – $85,000 | Nutrition manager, clinical specialist |
| Senior Level (15+ years) | $85,000 – $100,000+ | Director of nutrition services, consultant |
Salary by Work Setting
Compensation varies significantly by employment setting:
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: $65,000 – $78,000
- Outpatient Care Centers: $70,000 – $82,000
- Government and Public Health: $58,000 – $72,000
- Nursing and Residential Care: $60,000 – $74,000
- Private Practice: $50,000 – $95,000 (highly variable)
- Research and Universities: $55,000 – $80,000
Job Market Outlook
The Commission on Dietetic Registration reported thousands of active RDs and RDNs practicing in Pennsylvania, reflecting the state’s robust nutrition workforce. Major employment centers include:
- Philadelphia metropolitan area
- Pittsburgh region
- Harrisburg-Carlisle area
- Lehigh Valley
- Erie region
Pennsylvania’s aging population, focus on chronic disease prevention, and expanding healthcare system create ongoing demand for qualified nutrition professionals.
Becoming a Health Coach in Pennsylvania
For those interested in wellness coaching without pursuing full licensure as a nutritionist, health coach certification offers an alternative pathway to support clients in achieving their health goals.
Health Coach vs. Licensed Nutritionist
While licensed nutritionists provide medical nutrition therapy and diagnosis-specific dietary counseling, health coaches focus on behavior change, lifestyle modifications, and wellness support. Health coaching is generally unlicensed in Pennsylvania and does not permit the use of protected titles or the provision of medical nutrition therapy (MNT).
| Aspect | Licensed Nutritionist (LDN) | Health Coach |
|---|---|---|
| Education Required | Bachelor’s or higher in Board-approved major; ACEND required if pursuing CDR route | Certificate programs (weeks to months); no specific degree required |
| State Licensure | Required to use protected titles | Not required; must not use protected titles |
| Practice Scope | Medical nutrition therapy, clinical counseling, MNT | Wellness coaching, lifestyle support, cannot provide MNT |
| Time to Practice | 4-6 years | 3-12 months |
| Insurance Reimbursement | Often covered for qualifying conditions | Typically not covered |
Note: Health coaching is generally unlicensed in Pennsylvania, but it must not imply protected titles (such as nutritionist, dietitian, or LDN) or provide medical nutrition therapy without proper credentials.
Pennsylvania’s Health Coaching Landscape
Pennsylvania faces significant public health challenges that health coaches can help address:
- 30.2% of adults are obese (2024 data)
- 23.3% of adults are physically inactive
- 11.2% have been diagnosed with diabetes
- Only 7.5% consume the recommended daily vegetables
- 33.7% have hypertension
- 19.9% are current tobacco smokers
Health Coach Training Options
Several organizations offer nationally recognized health coach certification:
American Council on Exercise (ACE) Health Coach Certification
- Only an NCCA-accredited health coach program
- Three specialization tracks: Fitness Professionals, Healthcare Professionals, Workplace Wellness
- Self-paced online study
- The exam can be taken at testing centers nationwide
International Coach Federation (ICF) Credentials
- Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
- Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
- Master Certified Coach (MCC)
- Requires coach-specific training hours and supervised coaching experience
Health Coach Education Pathways in Pennsylvania
Many Pennsylvania universities offer relevant degree programs that complement health coaching certification:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
- Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion
- Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion
- Bachelor of Science in Wellness and Health Promotion
- Master of Arts in Nutrition Education with Wellness Promotion Focus
Career Opportunities for Health Coaches
Pennsylvania health coaches find employment in diverse settings:
- Corporate Wellness Programs: Companies like IBM, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin employ health coaches
- Healthcare Systems: Hospitals integrate health coaches into patient care teams
- Community Organizations: Nonprofits like the Highmark Foundation hire health coaches for obesity prevention
- Private Practice: Independent practitioners offer one-on-one and group coaching
- Telehealth Platforms: Virtual coaching through online wellness companies
The Highmark Foundation Initiative
The Highmark Foundation represents a significant employer of health coaches in Pennsylvania. Their childhood obesity prevention initiative has reached over one million Pennsylvania children through nutrition education and physical activity programs. Recent grants in 2016 alone exceeded $700,000 to support community health coaching efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be licensed to practice as a nutritionist in the state of Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania requires licensure to use protected titles (‘nutritionist,’ ‘dietitian-nutritionist,’ ‘LDN’). Some nutrition services may be permitted without using protected titles, but medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and insurance reimbursement typically require qualifying credentials. Check Pennsylvania state law and the State Board of Nursing guidance for specific scope of practice regulations.
Can I practice nutrition in Pennsylvania with a license from another state?
Pennsylvania does not currently participate in interstate licensure compacts for nutritionists. You must apply for Pennsylvania licensure even if you hold a license from another state. However, your credentials and experience may expedite the application process through the PALS system.
What’s the difference between a licensed nutritionist (LDN) and a registered dietitian (RD/RDN) in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, both LDN and RD/RDN credentials satisfy state licensure requirements and permit use of protected titles. The primary difference lies in the credentialing pathway. RDs/RDNs complete ACEND-accredited didactic programs and supervised practice, then pass the CDR examination. LDNs may also qualify through the CNS examination pathway, provided they hold graduate-level education. Both can provide medical nutrition therapy and are recognized by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.
How long does it take to become a licensed nutritionist in Pennsylvania?
The timeline typically ranges from 4 to 6 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree (or 6 years for a master’s if required for your pathway), several months for supervised practice (if not completed during your degree program), time to prepare for and pass the examination, and 2-3 months for license application processing through PALS.
Is ACEND accreditation required for Pennsylvania LDN licensure?
ACEND accreditation is not explicitly required by Pennsylvania statute for LDN licensure. However, if you plan to pursue the CDR (RD/RDN) examination pathway, you must complete ACEND-accredited coursework and supervised practice. The CNS pathway does not require ACEND accreditation, but it does have its own graduate-level education requirements.
How much does it cost to become a licensed nutritionist in Pennsylvania?
Total costs vary but typically include university tuition (which varies by institution and degree level), examination fees (approximately $200 for the CDR exam; CNS exam fees vary), and license application fees through PALS (check current fees at the time of application). Ongoing costs include biennial license renewal and continuing education courses to meet the 30-hour CPE requirement.
Does Pennsylvania require a master’s degree for nutritionists?
Pennsylvania statute requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree for licensure as an LDN. However, as of January 1, 2024, the CDR pathway to becoming an RD/RDN requires a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral level). The CNS pathway has always required graduate-level education. Your degree requirements depend on which examination pathway you choose.
Can I open a private nutrition practice in the state of Pennsylvania?
Yes, licensed nutritionists can open private practices in Pennsylvania. You’ll need proper business licenses and liability insurance, and you must maintain your LDN license through the State Board of Nursing. Many private practitioners also obtain additional certifications in specialized areas to differentiate their services and may need to verify the scope of practice for insurance reimbursement eligibility.
Will insurance cover nutrition counseling in Pennsylvania?
Many insurance plans cover medical nutrition therapy when provided by licensed dietitians (LDN) or registered dietitians (RD/RDN), particularly for conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Coverage varies by insurer and specific plan. Medicare covers medical nutrition therapy for certain diagnoses when provided by RDs/RDNs who meet Medicare provider requirements.
What continuing education is required to maintain my Pennsylvania nutritionist license?
Pennsylvania requires 30 hours of Board-approved continuing professional education (CPE) every two years. These hours must be obtained from Board-approved providers, such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American College of Nutrition, state dietetic associations, or other accredited organizations. Retain documentation of all CPE activities for at least 4 years.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania requires state licensure for nutritionists through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing, with the title “Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN)” protected by law.
- Educational requirements include a baccalaureate or higher from a regionally accredited institution in human nutrition, food and nutrition, dietetics, or food systems management, combined with at least 900 hours of supervised practice experience.
- Two examination pathways are available: the CDR’s Registered Dietitian exam (which requires a graduate degree and ACEND-accredited coursework as of January 2024) or the BCNS/ANA’s Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) exam (which requires graduate-level education and 1,000 practice hours).
- Pennsylvania nutritionists earned an average salary of $68,810 annually as of May 2024 (BLS OEWS, May 2024), with higher wages in metropolitan areas like Philadelphia ($73,890).
- License renewal occurs every two years and requires 30 hours of Board-approved continuing education; check the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing website for current renewal fees.
- Applications are submitted through Pennsylvania’s online PALS system, which streamlines the licensing process and allows electronic document submission and status tracking.
- Health coaching offers an alternative career path that avoids state licensure requirements, although it has a different practice scope focused on wellness rather than medical nutrition therapy and does not utilize protected titles.
- Pennsylvania’s robust healthcare system, aging population, and public health challenges create strong ongoing demand for qualified nutrition professionals.
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Pennsylvania?
Becoming a licensed nutritionist in Pennsylvania opens doors to a rewarding career helping individuals and communities achieve better health through evidence-based nutrition guidance. Whether you’re drawn to clinical practice, community health, research, or private counseling, Pennsylvania’s diverse healthcare landscape offers abundant opportunities for nutrition professionals.
Start by researching programs that align with your chosen examination pathway (CDR or CNS), connect with practicing nutritionists in your area of interest, and familiarize yourself with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing requirements through their website and PALS system. With dedication and proper planning, you can complete your education, gain supervised experience, pass your examination, and begin making a difference in Pennsylvania’s health landscape.
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
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
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.
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.
