Holistic Nutrition School Checklist

What to Look For in a Holistic Nutrition School

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a school or program to start your career as a Functional Holistic Nutrition Practitioner.

1. Provincial Ministry Protection

Protection as a Student

what to look for

Provincially-licensed and ministry-regulated
Financial transparency and accountability
Protect your educational outcomes with qualified instructors
Eligible for government financial aid
Ensuring your education is a protected investment

How CSNN Delivers

All classroom and/or live online branches are ministry-regulated
Transparent pricing with no hidden costs or misleading fees
Consistent high educational standards across all branches and delivery formats
Select branches are eligible for student aid funding. All branches offer payment plans.
Internal process to safeguard students, including fair withdrawal and refund policies

The Natural Nutrition Program is the same across all branches, including Distance Education (self-study online format). The only difference is the delivery format. All CSNN graduates receive the same education, diploma, and professional designation and title.

2. Graduate Support & Professional Credibility

Protection as a Graduate

what to look for

Eligibility for professional associations to enhance credibility
Ongoing support with business and practice-building tools to protect yourself, clients, and the industry
Recognized credentials to obtain liability insurance

CSNN Graduate Advantages

Eligible to join CAHN-Pro, CANNP, and NANP
Exclusive CSNN Alumni Association with resources, discounts, webinars, mentoring, networking opportunities, and more
Access to professional liability insurance for client protection

3. Comprehensive Curriculum & Clinical Training

Sciences, Theory, Clinical Training, Prep Work

what to look for

In-depth, science-based curriculum with broad, practical application
Practitioner-focused courses that help you make client assessments and customized recommendations
Clinical training through case studies that build upon your knowledge and skills, including communication, critical thinking, and motivational interviewing. Hands-on experience with real-life clients to prepare you for professional practice
Additional learning opportunities that enhance curriculum and explore diverse topics within the broad field of nutrition in health care

CSNN's Evolving and Expert-Designed Program

30+ years of experience developing and updating curriculum. Comprehensive courses across all life stages: pediatric, sports, aging, and more
Core topics covered like nutrition fundamentals, body systems, hormones, biochemistry, eco-nutrition, and more. See full curriculum here.
Practitioner-focused training with 250 clinical hours with real-life clients to build confidence and competence
Practicals/co-requisites supplement core learning, including lectures on a wide range of holistic nutrition and lifestyle topics that support your case study work
CSNN-published textbooks written by holistic nutrition experts, academically reviewed and referenced by highly trained instructors and academic advisors, and regularly updated to meet program goals

4. Flexibility and Accessible Learning Options

How can a school support you best

what to look for

Schedule options to suit your lifestyle
Live Online options with real-time interaction (not pre-recorded)
Self-study online options for independent and motivated learners
In-person classes and hybrid where available
Multiple schedules across time zones—ideal for early birds, night owls, or those needing flexibility
Transfer options available—supportive of life changes and learning needs

How CSNN Delivers

Full-time, part-time, and self-paced schedule options to suit your lifestyle
Study from anywhere with Live Online classrooms with real-time interactions and discussions with instructors and classmates
Self-Paced Self-Study Online Format available with Distance Education so you can study anywhere, anytime.
Select branches offer In-Person/Hybrid/Blended learning for a unique experience
CSNN branches across Canada offer multiple time zones and schedule options – this is to support students and their lifestyle, no matter where they are
CSNN supports transfers between branches or formats if needs or location changes
Enhanced program available at select branches, featuring a clinical component, accelerated format, and additional practical experience

5. Rigorous Testing and Standardized Board Exam

Strong assessment for career readiness

What to look for

Consistent and thorough evaluations throughout the program
Adequate testing throughout to ensure mastery of material
Final board exam that helps establish industry and graduate standards
Emphasis on practical application of knowledge

CSNN's High Academic Standards

Consistent grading structure and feedback throughout program from highly qualified instructors and academic advisors
Ongoing tests and assignments to reinforce and build knowledge
Board exam for students to ensure high level of competence
High academic standards throughout the Natural Nutrition Program foster confident and skilled practitioners

6. Graduate Success & Industry Recognition

Impact on the Holistic Nutrition Industry

What to look for

Ability to earn recognized professional designation and title
Graduates have gained visibility through various media including publications and speaking engagements, demonstrating their expertise
Graduates are making a meaningful impact within their communities

CSNN's Graduates and Their Impact

Over 12,000 graduates worldwide with the most recognized professional designations (R.H.N./C.H.N./C.H.N.C.)
Check out some of our alumni profiles and career stories showcasing their diverse niches and evolving journeys
See the published works of some of our graduates
Here are some videos highlighting their holistic nutrition journey and professional achievements in the industry (Ciara, Gillian, Caroline, Jenna)

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