Nutrition Certifications

Obtaining nutrition certifications helps you to specialize the work you do. Even if you plan to cover several areas in your nutrition work it is ideal to seek certifications in those areas to help reflect your expertise.

For example, the American Dietetic Association provides certification in nutrition specialties such as gerontology, sports nutrition and pediatric nutrition.

When seeking out an agency for certification outside the American Dietetic Association, it is important to determine whether they are well respected in the field. The Institute for Credentialing Excellence is an organization that oversees professional certifications. Check to make sure the agency you are interested in is on their list.

Maintaining professional nutrition certifications does two things for you. First, it promotes continuing education because you will be required to stay up-to-date in the field to keep the certification. This can improve your appeal to potential employers because it indicates that you are actively involved in current research and trends. Second, these certifications promote networking with likeminded professionals. These individuals are valuable resources from information, including job leads.

Here are some more certifications which relate to nutrition jobs. In addition, many state government departments which oversee the work of registered dietitians and nutritionists also offer certifications in the field.

American College of Sports Medicine
American Council on Exercise
American Culinary Federation
Dietary Managers Association
International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals
National Commission for Health Education Credentialing
School Nutrition Association