People interested in becoming certified clinical nutritionists must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Many future nutritionists major in nutritional science, dietetics, human nutrition or another science field. The Clinical Nutrition Certification Board requires you to take courses in anatomy and physiology, human biology, chemistry, microbiology, organic chemistry and biochemistry. The board also requires additional coursework in basic nutrition, nutrition assessment, nutrition and aging, supplementation, counseling strategies, and nutrition and disease. A course in herbal medicine also may be needed.
Anyone seeking a certification in clinical nutrition must hold an advanced professional degree in the health sciences. Medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, dentists, optometrists, optometrists, physical therapists, physician's assistants, registered nurses and other licensed health professionals qualify for certification. Alternatively, some students choose to complete a master's or doctorate in human nutrition before becoming certified as a clinical nutritionist.
The Clinical Nutrition Certification Board requires potential applicants to complete its Post Graduate Studies in Clinical Nutrition program before sitting for the certification exam. This program covers biochemistry, environmental health issues, medical conditions, toxicity, laboratory assessments and other skills needed by clinical nutritionists. People with a master's or doctorate in human nutrition may be exempt from completing the PGSCN program before taking the certification exam.
The final step in becoming a certified clinical nutritionist is taking the examination offered by the Clinical Nutrition Certification Board. The examination tests applicants' knowledge of the topics covered in the PGSCN program. Those who successfully pass the exam receive a certified clinical nutritionist credential.