Are you interested in entering the Integrative and Functional Nutrition world? Whether you are already in the healthcare field or are looking for a career change, this growing specialization can open up new doors for you and your patients or clients.
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the significance of nutrition in maintaining overall health and well-being. Integrative and functional nutrition programs have gained popularity for their holistic approach, combining traditional dietary knowledge with cutting-edge scientific advancements.
However, if you’re interested in entering this field, you likely have noticed the multitude of training programs that are out there. It can be overwhelming (to say the least) to sort through these options.
Let us help reduce some of the stress by mapping out the top 5 programs - why we like them, how they differ, and how to get started!
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1. Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy
The IFNA (Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy) is one of the most respected functional nutrition training and mentoring programs in the industry. It was co-founded by two of the nation’s top integrative medicine nutritionists, Dr. Sheila Dean and Kathie Swift, MS.
There are different certification options offered. Your choice will be based on preference, time commitment, cost, and professional eligibility:
- Continuing Professional Education (CPEUs) - You have the opportunity to progress through various educational tracks and obtain Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs). As an accredited provider recognized by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, they offer up to 224 CPEUs for professionals seeking to maintain their credentials and expand their expertise.
- Certificate of Training (COT) - To earn the Functional Nutrition Certificate of Training (which includes CPEUs), you must successfully complete Tracks 1-5 within a two-year period. Additionally, passing all quizzes associated with each module in these tracks is required. The IFNCP board exam is not required.
- Advanced Practice Credential, Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certified Practitioner (IFNCP) - The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certified Practitioner (IFNCP) credential is open to a wide range of professionals in the healthcare field. Completion of all 33 modules, quizzes, and passing the IFNCP board exam is required. Additional requirements apply for some healthcare practitioners.
Cost and Length of the IFNA Program
The total cost will vary based on full-time student rate and optional add-on mentoring. The full program costs $4727, with lower options available if only taking CPEU courses. The total time commitment is 9-12 months. You can view their fee schedule for more detailed descriptions and breakdowns of all costs.
IFNA Tracks & Modules
IFNA offers 33 modules separated into 5 Tracks. These are all 100% online and self-paced. IFNA’s stellar faculty includes thought leaders and experienced clinicians in functional medicine. Use this link to learn more!
A “food as medicine” approach is the central piece to IFN therapy; thus, an understanding and application of functional nutrition concepts to support health and healing are woven through the entire curriculum.
IFNA training includes skill-building and competencies in six essential clinical areas:
- Whole body systems approach
- Root cause analysis
- Therapeutic elimination diets and food plans
- Conventional and functional diagnostic labs, including nutrigenetic testing
- The art and science of dietary supplements
- Mind-body modalities such as meditation, yoga, breathing techniques, and other lifestyle-oriented coaching practices to support behavior change
Who is IFNA training for?
Whether you are a registered dietitian or nutritionist eager to incorporate functional nutrition into your practice or a health coach determined to find holistic solutions for your clients’ more complex issues, this is the training for you. IFNA is a comprehensive functional nutrition training program that is highly recognized in the industry. Their students come from all over the world and include:
- Registered Dietitians
- Nutritionists
- Health Coaches
- Physicians
- Physician Assistants
- Naturopaths
- Nurses
- Nurse Practitioners
Other allied healthcare professionals may qualify. If unsure, email info@IFNAcademy.com to inquire about eligibility and requirements.
How to Get Started with IFNA
Learn how the IFNA program works and what your next steps are, including how to become a member to earn additional savings and how to register for the Tracks.
For a “sneak peek” into the IFNA program, click HERE for a brief video on what you can expect from your IFNA training!
Other allied healthcare professionals may qualify. If unsure, email us via the Contact Us tab to inquire about eligibility and requirements.
Want to know what others are saying about IFNA?
View their raving testimonials here.
2. Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN):
The Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) stands as a pioneer in the field of integrative nutrition education. Founded in 1992, IIN has been at the forefront of training health coaches and nutritionists in a comprehensive curriculum that covers not only nutrition science but also the psychological and lifestyle factors influencing dietary choices. The program emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on bio-individuality and recognizing that one size does not fit all when it comes to nutrition.
The Institute for Integrative Nutrition offers The Health Coach Training Program™ that equips students with the knowledge and skills to become certified health coaches. This comprehensive program covers various aspects of nutrition, wellness, and health coaching.
Cost and Length of the IIN Program
Pricing can vary depending on the specific program offering chosen but ranges around $5500 - $12000. Click here to view the most up-to-date pricing information. Most program options are 12 months in length. However, there may also be some 6-month options available.
IIN Tracks and Modules
The Institute for Integrative Nutrition offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes a variety of tracks and modules focused on nutrition, health coaching, and wellness practices. The program is designed to cover essential topics such as dietary theories, coaching methods, business development, and holistic health.
For detailed information on the specific tracks and modules available, including their content and how they are structured, please visit their official website.
Who is the Training for?
While many healthcare practitioners join this program to expand their knowledge and skills, this specific program is also super welcoming to anyone interested in health, nutrition, and wellness looking to start a career in health coaching and even individuals interested in improving their own health and lifestyle. It's suitable for anyone passionate about health, wellness, and helping others meet their health goals, which is not the case for every program.
How to Get Started
To get started with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, you can visit their official website and look for the enrollment section. They often provide an option to call an admissions representative who can talk you through the process, explain program details, and answer any questions you might have. You will also find options to directly apply or sign up for more information online, including webinars or introductory courses that give a taste of what the program offers.
If you happen to have specific questions, you can request more info here. If you’re ready to register, you can choose your program here or send an email to admissions@integrativenutrition.com
Want to know what others are saying about IIN?
View their fantastic program reviews here!
3. Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA):
The Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA) is dedicated to training health coaches in the principles of functional medicine. Functional medicine is a sect of medicine that identifies and addresses the root causes of health issues rather than just treating an individual's symptoms. FMCA's program incorporates the principles of functional medicine, equipping coaches to work alongside healthcare practitioners to create personalized, integrative treatment plans. The curriculum emphasizes the interconnectedness of body systems and the importance of lifestyle factors in achieving optimal health.
Cost and Length of the FMCA Program
The cost of the program at the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA) is $9,779, and it takes 12 months to complete. For a comprehensive overview and further details, FMCA encourages prospective students to download their information packet directly from their website.
FMCA Tracks and Modules
The Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA) offers a comprehensive curriculum that is designed to prepare students for a career in health coaching with a focus on functional medicine principles. The program is structured around 12 core curriculum modules that cover a range of topics essential for effective health coaching.
- Foundational Coaching Skills: The program begins by introducing students to the basic principles of functional medicine and positive psychology. It aims to build a strong foundation in fundamental coaching skills.
- Principles of Functional Medicine Health Coaching: Students learn advanced coaching techniques, including building rapport and motivational interviewing, to become effective coaches for their clients.
- Guiding Clients Toward Change: This module focuses on behavior change, incorporating principles of functional nutrition and the Institute for Functional Medicine Food Plans, along with positive psychology, to assist clients in making lifestyle changes.
- Digestion and Immunity: Students gain knowledge about digestion, immune health, and mind-body practices, including guidance on The IFM Elimination Diet.
- Hormone Balance and Communication: This covers the basics of hormonal and cardiometabolic health and the importance of diet and lifestyle in maintaining these systems.
- Energy and Resiliency: The focus here is on energy production and mitochondrial health, coaching on functional nutrition, sleep, exercise, and movement.
- Integrating Environmental Health: Students learn about environmental health impacts and strategies for detoxification through nutrition and lifestyle choices.
- Coaching Chronic Conditions: This module explores chronic disease pathways and inflammation, offering strategies for nutrition and lifestyle changes to promote healing.
- Mental Health and Emotional Wellness: Students explore mental health from a functional medicine perspective and learn coaching strategies that differ from psychotherapy.
- Group Coaching and Remote Monitoring: The curriculum includes training on facilitating group coaching sessions and the use of remote health monitoring.
- Navigating Coaching Challenges: Preparation for facing challenges as a coach, with a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and ethical dilemmas.
- Your Coaching Future: The final module synthesizes all learned principles and prepares students for their coaching careers.
The FMCA curriculum includes live training sessions, pre-recorded content, and interactive learning experiences. The program is recognized for its excellence in online learning and offers a unique blend of functional medicine, nutrition, positive psychology, and mind-body medicine principles tailored for those looking to establish a career in health coaching.
Who is the Training for?
The FMCA training is designed for a wide array of individuals interested in health coaching and the principles of functional medicine. This includes:
- Healthcare Practitioners: Medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, and dietitians looking to integrate functional medicine principles into their practice.
- Existing Health Coaches: Coaches seeking to deepen their knowledge and skills in functional medicine to enhance their coaching practice.
- Career Changers: Individuals looking to enter the health and wellness field as certified health coaches with a functional medicine background.
- Wellness Enthusiasts: Those passionate about health and wellness, aiming to improve their own health or to support family and friends through informed, holistic health practices.
The program is particularly beneficial for those who want to work collaboratively with clients to address the root causes of health issues. It's suitable for anyone with a passion for wellness and health, a desire to help others achieve their health goals, and an interest in the comprehensive approach that functional medicine offers.
How to Get Started
Once you've decided that the FMCA program is the right fit for you, complete the application process as outlined on their website. This usually involves filling out an application form, submitting required documents, and possibly an interview. When classes are filled, there may be a waitlist to sign up for.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy's official website or schedule a call.
Want to know what others are saying about FMCA?
Hear from their satisfied alumni here.
4. University of Western States - Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine (MS-HNFM)
For those seeking a more academic and in-depth approach to integrative and functional nutrition, the Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine degree program at the University of Western States is an excellent choice. This program combines rigorous scientific education with a focus on functional medicine principles. Students extensively study advanced topics such as nutrigenomics, microbiome research, and therapeutic interventions. Graduates are well-prepared to contribute to research, clinical practice, or education in the field of functional nutrition.
Cost and Length of the MS-HNFM Program
Tuition may vary slightly from year to year. However, the tuition is roughly $30,000-$35,000 for the full Master’s program. The program is intended to be completed within 2 years. You can learn more about tuition and fees here.
MS-HNFM Tracks and Modules
The Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine (MS-HNFM) degree program at the University of Western States is crafted to meet the growing demand for nutrition professionals who have an advanced understanding of how diet and natural treatments play a crucial role in preventing and managing illness. This program stands out by going beyond conventional nutritional education, equipping graduates with the skills to apply nutrition and holistic therapies in addressing complex health issues.
Graduates from the MS-HNFM program are trained to:
- Merge the principles of whole food nutrition with proactive strategies for health enhancement and disease prevention.
- Utilize the functional medicine approach to meet the unique therapeutic needs of patients or clients.
- Implement targeted interventions to correct physiological imbalances and address states of illness.
- Critically evaluate scientific research to inform clinical practice and support evidence-based decision-making.
This advanced degree prepares professionals to make a significant impact in the health field by integrating functional medicine and nutrition principles to support patient care and wellness.
For more program-specific information, click here to view their details.
Who is the Training for?
The MS-HNFM program is designed for a wide array of individuals who are passionate about advancing their expertise in the field of nutrition, particularly through the lens of functional medicine. This includes:
- Healthcare Professionals: Physicians, nurses, nutritionists, dietitians, and other medical practitioners looking to integrate functional medicine and nutrition principles into their practice.
- Health Coaches and Wellness Practitioners: Those already working in wellness, coaching, or alternative health fields seeking to deepen their knowledge and offer more comprehensive guidance to their clients.
- Career Changers: Individuals seeking to enter the healthcare or wellness fields with a focus on nutrition and functional medicine.
- Researchers and Academics: Those interested in contributing to the body of knowledge in nutrition and functional medicine through research and teaching.
- Lifelong Learners: People with a strong interest in nutrition, wellness, and functional medicine who wish to deepen their understanding of the subject matter for personal growth or to support family and community health.
The program caters to those who are keen on understanding the complex relationship between nutrition, lifestyle, and health and how to apply this knowledge in clinical or personal settings to support health and prevent disease.
How to Get Started
The program is fully online, making it accessible to students globally, and it's eligible for financial aid. It incorporates cutting-edge clinical tools and is offered in collaboration with IFM (the Institute for Functional Medicine), ensuring that graduates are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in functional medicine and human nutrition.
To get started, interested individuals should:
- Review the Program Details: Understand the curriculum, which covers a range of topics from foundational coaching skills to advanced practice modules, including the therapeutic use of botanical medicines, pharmacology, drug-nutrient interactions, and supervised nutrition mentorship, among others. Courses are designed to provide a comprehensive education in human nutrition and functional medicine.
- Check Admission Requirements: For the Master of Science program, a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) is required, along with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and prerequisite courses in biology, physiology or anatomy and physiology, biochemistry (within the last eight years), nutrition, and medical terminology.
- Prepare Application Materials: This includes official transcripts from all prior colleges and universities, a current resume or CV, two letters of recommendation, completion of an interview (either in-person or via Zoom), an essay about your career goals, and a $50 application fee. International students have additional requirements to fulfill.
- Submit Application by Deadline: The program has entry terms in April and October, with applicants encouraged to submit their application and supporting documents sixty days prior to the intended start date. Deadlines for application submissions and deposits are specific to each entry term, so planning ahead is crucial.
- Technology Requirements: Make sure you have access to a reliable computer (along with basic computer skills) and a dependable internet connection, as the program is 100% online.
For more detailed information on the application process and prerequisites and to apply, visit the University of Western States website directly. This program is an opportunity to join a community committed to holistic health, wellness, and the advanced practice of human nutrition and functional medicine.
Want to know what others are saying about the MS-HNFM program?
Click here to read why The University of Western States was nems one of the top schools for online education in nutrition.
5. The Functional Nutrition Alliance (FxNA) - Full Body Systems
The Full Body Systems program by the Functional Nutrition Alliance is an extensive 10-month online course designed by Andrea Nakayama. It focuses on functional nutrition, aiming to equip health practitioners with the tools and knowledge to address the root causes of clients' health issues. The program includes seven modules covering different body systems, practical skills for individualized client plans, and the art of counseling. Graduates receive certification as Functional Nutrition Alliance Certified Functional Nutrition Counselors (CFNC) and can apply for additional board certifications. The course is ideal for health coaches, clinicians, and aspiring counselors looking to deepen their functional nutrition expertise.
Cost and Length of the FxNA Health Coach Training Program
The Full Body Systems program by the Functional Nutrition Alliance is a comprehensive 10-month online immersion. The program offers competitive tuition rates with options for full payment or monthly payments. The full price is $5,950 or $537 per month. The structure of the program includes 26 audio classes (1 for each week of the program) as well as 15 live classes.
FxNA Tracks and Modules
The Full Body Systems program consists of seven intensive modules, each focusing on a different body system such as Digestive, Immune, Urinary, Cardio, Endocrine, Neuro (Brain), and Reproductive systems. These modules provide a comprehensive understanding of how each system functions and its impact on overall health. Additionally, the program includes practical tools for client counseling, functional nutrition strategies, and business development skills essential for a successful health coaching practice.
Who is the Training for?
This program is designed for a broad audience, including established clinicians, health coaches, and aspiring counselors. It's ideal for those in healthcare or wellness-related fields who wish to incorporate diet and lifestyle changes into their practice, as well as individuals passionate about utilizing 'food as medicine.' The program aims to equip participants with the skills to address complex health issues, making it a good fit for practitioners seeking to enhance patient outcomes and for those looking to start a career in functional nutrition.
How to Get Started
The website allows you to request more information or even have a quick text-based chat with an advisor to have all of your questions answered. If you’re ready to get started, you’ll have to schedule an appointment with an advisor to secure your spot.
Want to know what others are saying about the FxNA program?
Click here to read about why participants love this program.
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Key Takeaways
- The field of Integrative and Functional Nutrition is growing, offering diverse opportunities for healthcare professionals and those seeking a new career path.
- Training programs like IFNA, IIN, FMCA, MS-HNFM, and FxNA Full Body Systems provide comprehensive education in functional nutrition, each with unique focuses and modules.
- These programs cater to a variety of learners, from registered dietitians and physicians to health coaches and wellness enthusiasts, emphasizing a "food as medicine" approach.
- Prospective students should consider factors such as program cost, length, curriculum, and specific interests to choose the right program.
- For more information or to enroll, visiting the program's official website and connecting with admissions advisors is recommended.
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