This program is designed for personal trainers, group fitness instructors, and other health and wellness professionals looking for a credible curriculum to gain expertise in advising their clients on nutrition. This online certificate program provides an in-depth examination of advanced sports nutrition, vitamin/protein supplementation, functional food implementation, antioxidants, and meal-plan analysis for optimal performance. The certificate will enhance your resume and demonstrate to clients that you're a qualified professional.

Estimated Cost Estimated Cost
$1,197-$1,596
Completion Time Completion Time
4-5 Months
Course Format Course Format
Online

The courses are approved for Continuing Education Credits (CECs/CEUs/CPEUs) by ACSM, NSCA-CSCS, NSCA-CPT, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), the credentialing agency for Registered Dietitians (RDs) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), and other organizations. The program is also ideal for health enthusiasts wanting to learn more about nutrition and healthy eating.

Instructor Pamela Wu, DPA, RDN is a health care management clinician, working closely with health care professionals and executive leaders to educate on current healthcare guidelines for wellness, diabetes, cardiac, and other chronic conditions.

Two Certificate Options

If completing either certificate, we recommend the courses be taken in order listed below.

  1. Nutrition for Optimal Health and Wellness Certificate (Can be completed in 15 weeks.)
    Successfully complete the following three online courses:
    • Nutrition and You: Functional Foods
    • Weight Management and Nutrition in the Lifecycle
    • Public Nutrition and Wellness Education
  2. Nutrition for Optimal Health, Wellness, and Sports Certificate (Can be completed in 20 weeks.)
    Successfully complete the three courses above plus Introduction to Sports Nutrition and Performance.

Students must complete each five-week course within eight weeks from the date they are emailed their login information. As such, we suggest completing one course before registering for another.

Enrolling in the Program
Enroll in the program at any time, even before registering for a course. It’s free, and offers many benefits:

  • Secure your curriculum (should the requirements change in the future).
  • See upcoming courses when you log into your student account.
  • Track your progress.

Enrolling in a program doesn’t mean you’re registered for courses. You still must register and pay for each course you wish to take.

 

Labor Analysis
Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor — Nationwide

Job Postings
Job Postings
Last 12 months
51,278

Projected Growth
Projected Growth
Over 10 years
+10%

Salary Range
Salary Range
Average
$32,000-$50,000

 

For more information call (619) 594-1556 or email healthcare.ces@sdsu.edu.

Certificates in Nutrition Info Sheet

Programs presented in partnership with a third-party provider are not taught by San Diego State University faculty nor affiliated with a campus academic department. Courses offered with third-party providers are not degree-eligible.

Courses

2021 Summer2021 Fall2022 Winter2022 Spring
2021 Fall
NU 0001 Nutrition and You: Functional Foods
Heard about the health benefits of cocoa for cardiovascular health? What do garlic, tomato sauce, and tofu have in common? Which spices and herbs need to be consumed in your daily diet? In this course you will learn what functional foods to eat for increased performance in sports, training, and daily life.
Course Date(s)
August 24 - January 3
$399
Inquire
Instructors
Pamela Wu
2021 Fall
NU 0002 Weight Management and Nutrition in the Lifecycle
Applying the principles of good nutrition starts at day 1, whether working with clients or designing the optimal personalized eating program. This course teaches students the principles behind helping a client in any stage of their life to set and achieve peak performance while working in conjunction with a registered dietitian in a team approach. Discover what specific nutrients need to be increased in your diet for peak performance and at different stages of your life. Learn how to personalize your own meal plan and those of your clients.
Course Date(s)
August 24 - January 3
$399
Inquire
Instructors
Pamela Wu
2021 Fall
NU 0003 Introduction to Sports Nutrition and Performance
Learn what to eat before, during, and after competition, design optimal meal plans for athletes, and be able to identify the best sport supplements such as protein powders/bars, creatine, and sport drinks. Learn to provide the best fuel for your body and how proper nutrition can provide optimal muscle development, recovery, and sports performance.
Course Date(s)
August 24 - January 3
$399
Inquire
Instructors
Pamela Wu
2021 Fall
NU 0004 Public Nutrition and Wellness Education
This course delves more deeply into nutrition, performance, and optimal wellness. Master the tools needed to provide educated answers on nutrition and overall well-being. Learn how to navigate through the media's mixed messages on sports nutrition, supplementation, diets, and effectively interpret nutrition news, and understand critical information on the science behind vitamins/proteins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Course Date(s)
August 24 - January 3
$399
Inquire
Instructors
Pamela Wu