The Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS) was founded in 1993 by the American College of Nutrition (ACN) to help meet the growing demand for knowledgeable, responsible professional nutritionists. The CBNS was created as a national certifying body in response to the many advanced degree nutritionists (master’s and doctoral level) from regionally accredited institutions that seek more formal recognition of their knowledge, skills and experience.

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WHAT IS A CERTIFIED NUTRITION SPECIALIST (CNS)?

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A CNS has an advanced degree (master’s, doctoral, or professional level), in nutrition or closely allied subject, and has additionally met the stringent requirements of the American College of Nutrition (ACN)’s certifying arm, the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS). Since 1995, this has included successful performance on a rigorous written examination covering the broad science of nutrition, ranging from basic aspects through clinical and research applications. CNS’s are required to maintain their certification by earning extensive continuing nutrition education (CNE) credits, generally through attendance at educational programs in nutrition, such as ACN’s annual scientific/clinical meetings. CNS’s are urged to be active members of ACN.

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WHAT IS A NUTRITIONIST?

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A nutritionist is a health specialist who devotes his/her professional activity exclusively to food/nutrition science, preventive nutrition, diseases related to nutrient deficiencies, and the use of nutrient manipulation to enhance the clinical response to human diseases.

All distance courses in the Irwin Graduate School are open to students who wish to pursue course work in particular subjects but have not been admitted to a master’s degree program. Certificates are awarded to those who complete three related courses in specific subject areas, such as charitable giving or other areas, outlined below. Completion of the programs may qualify a student for up to nine credits towards an MSFS degree if the student is subsequently admitted to the master’s program.

Certificates are designed for students who have not yet been admitted to the master’s program. Once admitted to the master’s degree program, the student is not eligible to commence work on a new certificate, but will be allowed to complete work on any one certificate already in progress.

Graduate Financial Planning Track

Through a program registered with Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, students who successfully complete the following seven courses may sit for the CFP