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Degrees and Schools
A lot of colleges offer bachelor's degrees in dietetics, food and nutrition and food service systems management. Some students choose to continue their education and get a graduate degree. Completing a program that has been approved by the American Dietetic Association's Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education can improve the chances of getting a job.
The Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association offers the Registered Dietitian credential. The credential is not required and it's not the same as the statutory certification regulated by some states. However, the credential may look good on a resume. Obtaining the credential requires completing academic coursework, completing an internship and passing an exam.
Classes
Typically classes include:
- Institution management
- Nutrition
- Chemistry
- Foods
- Microbiology
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Biology
Online Classes and Programs
Many colleges offer online dietitians and nutritionists education programs. Bachelor's and master's degrees are available. Prospective online students should look for schools which have received accreditation from agencies approved by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education (CHEA).
Employment Requirements
Dietitians and nutritionists usually are required to have at least a bachelor's degree in dietetics; food and nutrition; food service systems management or in a related field. Most states have laws governing dietetics and many of these states require licensure. Some states require certification. Major employers include hospitals, schools, nursing care facilities, home healthcare agencies and community health programs.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
While evaluating schools, prospective students should consider getting answers to the following questions:
- School's Reputation - Does the school have a good reputation with local employers?
- Training - Does the program include externships? Do students have to find their own externship? How long are the externships?
- Curriculum - Can students specialize in their area of interest? Does the program prepare students to obtain the registered dietitian credential?
- Job Placement - Does the school provide job placement services? How does the school's job placement rate compare to other schools?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Has the school been approved to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the program approved by the American Dietetic Association's Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education?
Dietitians and Nutritionists Job Description
Dietitians and nutritionists have the challenging and rewarding opportunity to create healthy, yet tasty food and nutrition programs. Besides preparing menus they help people improve their eating habits. By promoting healthy eating they actually help prevent and treat illnesses. Some dietitians work in hospitals and schools and manage food service operations. Many dietitians and nutritionists are involved in important research projects.
When comparing registered dietitians to nutritionists, registered dietitians usually have more education and training. Dietitians typically have greater responsibilities and usually have higher salaries. Some examples of responsibilities for both occupations are shown below:
- Discuss with individuals and groups food nutrition and healthy eating habits
- Evaluate clients nutritional needs, diet restrictions and current health to develop a dietary-care plan
- Monitor a food service operation to make sure it conforms to nutritional, sanitation, safety and quality standards
- Develop special meals
- Provide public policy recommendations for food fortification, nutrition standards and nutrition labeling for schools
- Work with doctors and healthcare personnel to determine diet restrictions and nutritional needs of patients
- Develop and supervise dietetics and nutrition programs
- Purchase food items in accordance with safety and health codes
Some dietitians specialize and become a community dietitian, clinical dietitian, outpatient dietitian, management dietitian or a consultant. Many dietitians specialize in renal, diabetic, cardiovascular or pediatric dietetics. The American Dietetic Association is a good resource for people considering the occupation.
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