Certified Nutrition Specialist:
A Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) is a professional designation for individuals who have met specific education and experience requirements in the field of nutrition. The CNS credential is awarded by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS), a certifying body that establishes and maintains standards for advanced nutrition professionals.
To become a Certified Nutrition Specialist, individuals typically need to fulfill the following requirements:
Education: Completion of a master's or doctoral degree in nutrition or a related field from an accredited institution.
Clinical Experience: Accumulation of a certain number of supervised practice hours, often in the form of clinical or practical experience in nutrition.
Examination: Successful completion of the Certified Nutrition Specialist examination, which tests knowledge and competency in various areas of nutrition science.
Continuing Education: Maintenance of ongoing professional development through continuing education to stay updated on the latest research and advancements in the field.
Certified Nutrition Specialists often work in various settings, including healthcare, private practice, research, and public health, providing expert advice on nutrition and helping individuals and communities improve their health through proper dietary practices.