What can you do with a nutrition degree?
A nutrition degree trains you in food science and healthy eating so you can help others build healthy habits. It can also prepare you to become a clinical nutritionist, dietitian, or health education specialist.
By: Genevieve Carlton, Edited by: Rebecca Munday and Janice Mejías Avilés
Last updated: February 12, 2026
Healthy eating habits are a key part of overall wellness. Nutritionists educate people about healthy eating and design nutritional plans that support health improvement. Learning about nutrition and food science can help you launch a career in nutrition. And with a master's in nutrition, you can become a registered dietitian nutritionist.
Find out how to become a nutritionist and other career paths you can pursue with a nutrition degree.
How to become a nutritionist
In the United States, nutritionists and dietitians typically need a license to practice, though requirements vary by state. So, how do you become a dietitian or nutritionist? This career path often requires a master's degree, supervised clinical training, and passing scores on a licensing exam.
Education
Earn a master's degree from an accredited nutrition or dietetics program to qualify as a registered dietitian or certified nutritionist.
Training
Complete an accredited dietetic internship. The programs typically include at least 1,000 hours of supervised practice.
Exam
Pass the registered dietitian (RD) or certified nutritionist (CNS) exam. The RD 180-minute exam covers nutrition science, food service systems, and counseling.
Licensure
Apply for a state-issued license to practice in your state. A handful of states do not require a license.
The Commission on Dietetic Registration provides additional information on becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist.
Nutritionist career snapshot
Clinical nutritionists and dietitians
Clinical nutritionists and dietitians customize nutritional diet plans for patients based on their healthcare needs and goals. They coordinate care with a patient's care team, such as their primary care physician and endocrinologist.
Community nutritionists and dietitians
Community nutritionists and dietitians develop nutrition-focused programs for the public, often as part of a broader community-based health program, like a public healthcare clinic. Many of them focus on a specific population, such as older adults.
Management dietitians
Management dietitians lead food service programs for schools, hospitals, cafeterias, and other organizations. They create menus and meal plans to meet diverse nutritional needs. Management dietitians may also oversee food purchasing.
How much does a nutritionist make?
Nutritionists earn a median pay of $73,850, according to May 2024 BLS data. The lowest-paid nutritionists earn less than $48,830, while the highest-paid earn more than $101,760.
Work setting plays a significant role in earning potential. Nutritionists who work in outpatient care centers and hospitals earn more than the profession's median pay. Those who work in nursing and residential care facilities earn less than the median.
Location, experience, and job title can also impact how much nutritionists earn. For example, management dietitians who oversee food service programs may make higher salaries. Nutritionists typically see their earning potential increase with experience.
Other jobs for nutritionists
Community health outreach worker
Community health workers promote healthy behaviors and connect people with health resources. Those who specialize in nutrition training and food security benefit from holding a nutrition degree.
- BLS median annual salary (May 2024): $51,030
- Job outlook (2024-2034): +11%
Health education specialist
Health education specialists can work in public health departments, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare facilities to educate groups of people on health and wellness. They can specialize in diet and nutrition.
- BLS median annual salary (May 2024): $63,000
- Job outlook (2024-2034): +4%
Wellness coordinator
Wellness coordinators plan and implement wellness programs for organizations, healthcare facilities, or community programs. They also supervise health and fitness professionals, such as athletic trainers or nutritionists.
- O*NET median annual salary (May 2024): $61,340
- Job outlook (2024-2034): +7%
Take the next step in your career
Are you ready to become a nutritionist? Browse edX master's degrees in nutrition or sign up for a course to explore the field today.