How to Become a Naturopathic Nutritionist
If you want to pursue a career in the health and wellness industry, becoming a naturopathic nutritionist or holistic nutritionist might be a good choice. A career as a nutritionist requires some post-secondary education, but does not necessarily require completion of an advanced degree; thus, it is possible to break into the field fairly quickly. Holistic nutritionists advise clients on how to make the right nutritional choices to stay well and live a healthy lifestyle.
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Research nutrition and dietetics as a career option. A naturopathic nutritionist emphasizes health and wellness through preventative nutrition, but also emphasizes herbal remedies and other natural supplements as a way to treat certain conditions. Naturopathic nutritionists are closely akin to dietitians and nutritionists but differ in emphases. Overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects average job growth for this field from 2008 to 2018.
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Obtain a bachelor's degree in nutrition or dietetics. The reality is that degree programs in naturopathic nutrition simply do not exist. Such programs that do arise typically disappear before receiving any level of true academic accreditation. Because holistic nutrition is primarily different in emphasis, it is best for students to obtain a degree from an accredited college or university and emphasize the holistic aspect of nutrition in their careers.
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Gain experience working as a nutritionist or dietitian. Dietitians generally have to obtain licensing in the state in which they practice their profession. Licensing typically requires the completion of a dietetics internship program. Aside from experience gained through an internship program, working as a nutritionist for an employer that emphasizes holistic nutrition or starting your own advising business can help you work toward certification.
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Pass the board certification exam the Holistic Nutrition Certification Board (HNCB) offers. The HNCB requires the completion and documentation of 500 hours of professional experience in the industry. Up to 250 of these hours may be indirect contact hours gained through research or other methods not involving direct advising of clients. Applicants must pay a review fee of $150 as of 2011, followed by a $75 certification application fee and a $300 exam fee. Additional documentation is required, including letters of reference and college transcripts.
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