If you're interested in helping people eat better to help with athletic performance, weight loss or health problems from diabetes to irritable bowel syndrome, you may wish to pursue a career as a nutritionist or dietitian. Educational and professional requirements for nutritionists and dietitians vary by state, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. However a registered dietitian, or RD, fulfills the requirements set by the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association, or ADA.
Bachelor's Degree
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a bachelor's degree in dietetics, food and nutrition, food service systems or a related area is a minimum requirement for a career in nutrition. In addition to courses in food and nutrition, coursework may also include chemistry, biology, physiology, psychology and sociology as well as business, economics, mathematics, statistics and computer science. For the RD credential, this degree must be earned from a university or college that is accredited by the ADA's Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education, or CADE.
Licensure, Certification and Registration
The U.S. Department of Labor reports that 48 states have statutes regulating dietetic practice. Thirty-five states require licensure, meaning that only licensed persons may work as nutritionists or dietitians. Twelve states require statutory certification that allows uncertified individuals to practice dietetics, but limits their use of certain occupational titles. One state requires only registration, which is the least restrictive form of regulation while two states do not have laws regulating dietetic practice.
RD Credential
The RD credential is separate from state licenses or certifications, though the ADA says that the training required for the RD frequently meets states' requirements. In addition to earning bachelor's degrees at CADE-accredited schools, RDs must also complete CADE-accredited practice programs at healthcare facilities, community agencies or foodservice corporations or combined with undergraduate or graduate programs. They must also pass the national Commission of Dietetic Registration examination and meet continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials.
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