- Accredited Master’s Degree
The Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition program offers students a focused training in advanced applied holistic nutrition. There is an emphasis on integrating holistic nutrition research and coaching skills to prepare graduates for direct application of holistic nutrition theory, science, and concepts in holistic health lifestyle planning for optimal health.
The Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition degree program provides professional holistic nutrition and wellness education from which community programming and client education can be based. This program trains graduates to apply current nutrition theories to a wide range of healthcare practices and develop nutrition and lifestyle plans for individuals, organizations, and community groups. Students in this program will be able to develop holistic nutrition advocacy plans that consider policy-making, academic research, manufacturing, and leadership. Students will also conduct a study or research review on a current issue or theory in integrative health and functional nutrition as part of their Capstone.
Industry-Recognized Credentials
Meet the education requirements to sit for both the Board Certification in Holistic Nutrition exam and the Certified Nutrition Specialist exam.
The Holistic Nutrition Advantage
Gain the clinical, research, and practical expertise to make a difference in the lives of the people you serve.
Science-Backed Curriculum
Build expertise grounded in current nutrition science, from functional nutrition and biochemistry to integrative pathophysiology and dietary supplements.
Real-World Application
Develop holistic nutrition and lifestyle plans for individuals, organizations, and community groups, applying theory directly to professional practice.
Personalized Support
Work closely with experienced instructors who guide you through the program with direct feedback and professional mentorship along the way.
Professional Pathways & Credentialing
National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP)
Approved by NANP to prove that graduates have completed a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for professional practice and eligibility to sit for the Holistic Nutrition Board Exam.
CNS®️ – Certified Nutrition Specialist
To be eligible to take the CNS exam, candidates must meet the educational requirements by completing a qualifying program and submit a completed application including two letters of recommendation, current CV, and official college transcripts.
Clinical Nutrition Certification Board (CNCB)
ACHS graduates of the following programs meet the core education requirements for the Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN) exam through the Clinical Nutrition Certification Board (CNCB).
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Apply Your Education in Real-World Settings
Graduates work in nutrition and wellness settings ranging from community health organizations and private practice to corporate wellness and healthcare support roles. Skills built at ACHS are grounded in both science and professional application, providing a strong foundation whether you’re stepping into a dedicated nutrition role or deepening an existing practice.
Popular career options among program graduates include:
Holistic Nutrition Consultant
Health or Holistic Nutrition Coach
Holistic Health Practitioner
Wellness or Lifestyle Coach
Admissions Requirements
Here’s what you’ll need to do to get started:
Step 1: Hold a Bachelor's Degree
Provide official transcripts for a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution. Learn more.
Don’t have a bachelor’s degree yet?
Start your journey with an ACHS bachelor’s program and build the foundation for graduate study.
Step 2: Apply Online
Complete and submit your application online to begin the admissions process. Learn more.
Step 3: Achieve Acceptance for Admission
Your application will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee for an admission recommendation.
Step 4: Confirm Your Funding
Work with the ACHS team to finalize your funding, including payment plans, tuition assistance or military benefits, or financial aid for those who qualify. Learn more.
Step 5: Complete Your Enrollment
Review and sign your Academic Plan and Enrollment Agreement once accepted.
Step 6: Attend Orientation
Explore ACHS learning and student support resources through our online Orientation and Welcome Week activities
Required Courses
The Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition is a 36-credit program completed entirely online over 60 weeks. Across 12 required courses, you’ll build a comprehensive foundation in nutrition science, integrative health, and professional practice.
Nutrition Core
Learning Outcomes
- Apply current nutrition theories to health-related practices and issues.
- Develop nutrition and lifestyle wellness plans using holistic nutrition and integrative health principles.
- Synthesize evidence-based research and literature to apply best practices in holistic nutrition.
- Evaluate current ethical and professional healthcare and holistic nutrition standards.
- Apply professional standards and entrepreneurial business skills within a holistic nutrition or organizational setting including effective record keeping, insurance, scope of practice, ethics, legal considerations, marketing, networking, and state and federal regulations.
- Design holistic nutrition advocacy plans that consider policy-making, academic research, manufacturing, and leadership.
- Conduct a study or research review on a current issue or theory in integrative health and functional nutrition.
Plan Your Holistic Nutrition Path With An Advisor
Connect with an academic advisor to talk about your goals. Get personalized guidance and explore your path in holistic nutrition.
The Value of Accreditation
ACHS is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). DEAC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
This status ensures that your education meets high academic and professional standards, giving you confidence in the quality and credibility of your training.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Estimate your total tuition by selecting any required course below to view its price. Tuition and fees are subject to change. You may also be able to reduce your total cost through credit transfers, challenge exams, and eBook textbooks. Financial aid opportunities are available as well. The projected maximum cost for the Master of Science in Herbal Medicine program is outlined below.
$28,980
Estimated Total
$200
Registration Fee
$23,940
Tuition
$4,790
Books and Supplies
$50
Graduation Fee
This estimate includes all textbooks, materials, and the online ACHS eTextbook. It reflects the courses with the greatest out-of-pocket costs and is based on 2026–2027 tuition rates. Actual costs may be lower if you qualify for transfer credit, pass a challenge exam, or opt for eBook options.
Program Disclosures
- Approved by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists SM (BCNS)
- Meets the education requirements for graduates to sit for the Certified Nutrition Specialists (CNS®) exam*
- Approved by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP)
- Meets the education requirements for graduates to sit for the Board Certification in Holistic Nutrition exam offered by the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board of the National Association of Nutrition Professionals**
- The BCNS requires a graduate degree in nutrition from an institutionally accredited university, specific coursework, and 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience. The BCNS reviews each candidate individually, including current course descriptions, transcripts, and experience, to determine eligibility. To learn more about becoming a CNS, visit TheANA.org/Certify/.
- In addition to completing this program, documentation of 500 hours (includes a minimum of 250 direct contact hours and up to 250 indirect contact hours) of professional experience in holistic nutrition is also required. NANP also offers an exception for new graduates that defers these requirements for two years if the exam is taken within 12 months of graduation. Please visit https://achs.edu/alumni/professional-exams-registration for more information or contact https://www.nanp.org/board-exam-eligibility.
- Please note that this program does not prepare students to be eligible to sit for the NCHEC CHES exam and become a Certified Health Education Specialist.
FAQs
What does a holistic nutritionist do?
Holistic nutritionists work with individuals, organizations, and communities to develop evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle plans that support long-term health and wellness. In practice, this can include client consultations, nutrition coaching, community health programming, and education on the safe and effective use of dietary supplements and integrative health protocols.
How do I become a Certified Nutrition Specialist?
The Certified Nutrition Specialist credential requires a graduate degree in nutrition from an accredited institution, specific coursework, and 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience. ACHS’s Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition meets the education requirements for the CNS exam. The American Nutrition Association reviews each candidate individually — visit TheANA.org/Certify for more information.
Is this program approved by any professional organizations?
Yes, this program is approved by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) and meets the education requirements to sit for the Board Certification in Holistic Nutrition exam. It is also aligned with the American Nutrition Association’s Board Certification for Certified Nutrition Specialists.
How long does the program take to complete?
The Master of Science in Holistic Nutrition is designed to be completed in 60 weeks. The program is 36 credits and delivered entirely online, giving you the flexibility to work through the curriculum at a pace that fits your life and professional commitments.
What is the difference between a holistic nutritionist and a registered dietitian?
Registered dietitians are licensed healthcare professionals trained in clinical dietetics and authorized to provide medical nutrition therapy. Holistic nutritionists take an integrative, whole-person approach to nutrition, focusing on lifestyle, wellness, and prevention. Please note that ACHS programs do not train graduates to become registered dietitians.
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