A career in nutrition is becoming more popular and there are many degree programs supporting this choice. Nutritionists and dieticians are experts in the field of healthful eating habits, exercise, and food and weight management. They work in hospitals, nursing care facilities or outpatient care, helping to devise food plans and menus for a variety of people. Often nutritionists and dieticians provide nutritional counseling for sick people. To become a nutritionist or dietician, you must have a degree, licensure or certification or be registered.
Bachelor's Degree
To become a nutritionist or a dietician, a minimum of a bachelor's degree is required. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, usually the degree is in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service management or something similar. Courses can include food science, health, biology, human anatomy, chemistry, biochemistry and clinical dietetics. Each degree program may have different courses but they are all closely related to health, nutrition and science. According to the Degree Directory website, the bachelor's degree program must be accredited by the American Dietetic Association and an internship is usually part of the degree program. To qualify for the ADA's registration examination, a bachelor's degree is needed.
Master's Degree
According to the Degree Directory website, sometimes a master's degree is needed. A master's degree may be required if you want to become a professor at a college or university or an administrator for a hospital. Many people go on to obtain a master's degree even if it is not required. Furthering your education can help to advance your professional career in areas such as research, clinical positions or public health. Having a master's degree in nutrition can propel you into management positions or specialized services such as renal, diabetic, cardiovascular or pediatric dietetics.
Certification
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that 33 states require licensure, 12 states require certification and one requires registration. A license in the required states is needed to work as nutritionists and dieticians. The states that require certification limit the use of certain titles. People with the proper certification can practice as a nutritionist or dietician but cannot use certain titles. The Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association awards the Registered Dietician credential to individuals who pass an exam, though this is not required. To pass certification, supervised internships are necessary. Either completion of an accredited program or 900 hours of experience is needed for certification.
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