Apply to a program. Almost all nutritionist positions, including those for sports nutritionists, require a bachelor's degree in a field related to nutrition. You can earn a degree in dietetics, nutrition, sports medicine or sports nutrition. Check to see which universities offer degrees. The American Dietetic Association's Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education had approved 279 bachelor's degrees as of 2008.
Earn a master's degree. The American Dietetic Association had approved 18 master's degree programs as of 2008.
Check your state's requirements for licensed dietitians. Forty-six states have laws requiring dietitians to obtain some form of certification in addition to a degree, 33 require dietitians to obtain licenses, 12 require a statutory certification, and one requires registration. Check the requirements for the state where you want to practice.
Consider earning a certification from the American Dietetic Association, which offers a certification credential through its Commission on Dietetic Registration. The credential is not required to practice as a sports nutritionist, but earning the certification gives you official approval from the ADA. Because the ADA is a respected association of dietitians, many jobs may require the certification or consider you more seriously if you have it. The association also offers a Specialist in Sports Dietetics certification.
Gain work experience. Sports nutritionist jobs require a variety of skills and are not entry-level jobs. Working in a hospital or clinic is an important first step toward a career focusing on athletes and other active people. As you begin your career, try to gain as much experience as possible while volunteering with sports programs to enhance your qualifications for sports nutritionist positions.