Nutritionist School in New Jersey

New Jersey Nutrition School

Once you have completed your education, you will be ready to begin studying for one of the two certification examinations available to you, which are the CCN (certified clinical nutritionist) and the CNS (certified nutrition specialist).

The CCN certification is considered entry-level and is open to any nutrition graduate with at least an associate’s degree. This test is administered and monitored by the CNCB (Clinical Nutrition Certification Board), and you will receive your certification from them. The fee for this test is $450.

The CNS designation is only available to students who have at least a bachelor’s degree in nutrition. This examination is proctored by the CBNS (Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists), and it is considered to be a specialty-level certification. The fee for this test is $350.

Neither of these certifications is mandatory in your state; however, you should be aware that you are not likely to be hired as a nutritionist without one of them.

Keeping Your Certification

Yes, you will be required to continue your education, in order to keep the CCN or CNS status current. This is largely because of the evolving nature of the profession and the implication of those changes on the public. It is important that you be aware of evolving advancements in medicine and science and their impact on your profession.

If you are certified as a CCN, you will be required to complete no less than 40 educational credits during every two year period. As a CNS, you must complete at least 75 credits during every five year period. After you have successfully completed these requirements, each respective Board will allow you to recertify.

Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Nutritionists in Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Edison and Woodbridge, New Jersey may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Bergen Regional Medical Center, Atlanticare Regional Medical Center and Hackensack University Medical Center.