Obesity is a huge problem in America, and many people don't have a healthy understanding of proper dieting practices. Certified nutrition counselors can contribute a lot to help alleviate this problem. Anyone can learn how to get started in this lucrative field.

Nutrition Counseling Education Requirements

To receive a nutrition counseling certification, it is first necessary to obtain a high school diploma or equivalency. Each state provides information to residents who wish to obtain a general high school diploma. Often, this can be taken care of with study and testing. Certification requirements vary state by state, but in most cases it will be necessary to obtain a bachelor's degree (at least) in food and nutrition, dietetics or related fields. Hundreds of degree programs have been approved by the American Dietetic Association. Check your state's education requirements to find out exactly what you need to receive certification.

Applying for Certification

Once all education requirements have been met, double-check the certification procedure in your state. Some areas may require internships to be performed before certification is given to nutrition counselors. If this is the case, talk to the school where you received dietary and nutrition classes; it's likely to have programs in place to further help you in your career. Once your studies are complete, obtaining a nutrition counseling certification isn't a difficult process. Each state has an application (many of which can be easily obtained online) you will need to complete. On the application, you'll list your educational achievements and describe any completed internships. Most states charge an application fee of $150 to $400.

Additional Certification Options

Nationwide groups such as the American Fitness Professionals and Associates (AFPA) provide accredited courses and certification programs that can be completed through distance learning. AFPA offers a nutrition consultant program that requires only a high school-level education to begin. To find or double-check a nutrition counseling certification program, check the American Dietetic Association for Registered Dietitians' Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) listings for information on dietetics and nutrition programs throughout the United States.

Source:

Obesisty Statistics

Dietitians and Nutritionists - U.S. Department of Labor

Applications for Certification - New York

Resource:

How to Receive a Nutrition Counseling Certification

Commission on Dietetic Registration

AFPA