Top Online Courses to Become a Nutritionist – No Degree Needed (2024 Guide)
Start your career in nutrition without a college degree! Here are the best online courses to get certified.
The demand for qualified nutritionists is growing, and you don’t need a traditional degree to enter this field. With the right online courses, you can gain accredited certifications and start advising clients on diet, wellness, and healthy living.
This guide covers:
✔ Best online nutritionist certifications (fully accredited)
✔ Affordable & self-paced programs
✔ Courses that qualify for jobs & private practice
✔ How to get certified without a degree
5 Best Online Nutritionist Certification Programs (2024)
1. NASM Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) – Best for Fitness Professionals
- Cost: 899(oftenonsalefor899(oftenonsalefor599)
- Duration: Self-paced (3–6 months avg.)
- Certification: Nationally recognized
- Best For: Trainers, coaches, and wellness professionals
2. Precision Nutrition Level 1 – Best for Evidence-Based Learning
- Cost: $1,199 (payment plans available)
- Duration: 6–12 months
- Certification: PN1 (highly respected in the industry)
- Best For: Those who want deep science-backed knowledge
3. ISSA Nutritionist Certification – Best for Beginners
- Cost: $799 (discounts available)
- Duration: Self-paced (complete in 8–12 weeks)
- Certification: Accredited by DEAC
- Best For: Career changers with no prior experience
4. AFPA Holistic Nutritionist Certification – Best for Natural Health
- Cost: $699
- Duration: 6 months (flexible schedule)
- Certification: Board-approved in some states
- Best For: Those interested in plant-based & holistic nutrition
5. Coursera – Stanford Introduction to Food & Health (Budget Option)
- Cost: Free (or $49 for certificate)
- Duration: 6 weeks (part-time)
- Certification: Stanford-backed (non-accredited)
- Best For: Beginners testing interest in nutrition
How to Start a Career as a Certified Nutritionist
- Pick the Right Program – Choose based on career goals (fitness, clinical, holistic).
- Complete the Course & Exam – Most require a final test for certification.
- Get Insurance – Required if working with clients (try NBHWC or NESTA).
- Build Your Brand – Start a blog, offer free consultations, or work at a wellness clinic.
FAQs
❓ “Can I call myself a nutritionist without a degree?”
Yes, but check state laws—some states restrict titles like “dietitian” without licensure.
❓ “Which certification is best for getting hired?”*
NASM CNC & ISSA are widely accepted in gyms and wellness centers.
Final Recommendation
- Best Overall: NASM CNC (respected, flexible)
- Best Budget Option: Coursera (free intro course)
- Best for Holistic Health: AFPA
