A nutritionist is an expert on diet, eating well and weight loss or gain. People see a nutritionist for a number of reasons. Many have a problem losing or gaining weight. Others need to adjust their diet in order to increase their energy or improve their overall health. Although many nutritionists work one-on-one with patients, others specialize in outreach education programs, public health or school nutrition.
Nutritionist vs. Dietitian
Dietitians must have at least a bachelor's degree in nutrition and dietetics in order to work as such. They must also complete an internship. In some states, dietitians also need to pass an exam that gives them national registration and state licensure. Dietitians can work with people who suffer from heart disease, diabetes or obesity. They can advise on dietary changes to help control those issues, and they sometimes work alongside primary-care physicians to provide support. Nutritionists don't have a set educational path. According to Ask the Dietitian, anybody can legally call himself a "nutritionist," even if the only education he has is a short online course. Because there is no standard educational path to become a nutritionist, the regulations are somewhat blurred.
Short Studies
Short courses on nutrition abound. Many can be completed online, while others require regular attendance. You can obtain a certificate as a nutrition adviser in a couple of weeks through workshops offered by private schools, or you can attend classes offered at local colleges and obtain a more in-depth certification. For example, the American Fitness Professionals & Associates offers a Sports Nutrition Consultant Certification course that can be completed at home. There's no central regulatory system that oversees these private courses, so it's up to you to research an individual school to decide whether it's worth your time and money.
Advanced Studies
Nutritionists can choose to complete a bachelor's degree in a field related to food and nutrition, such as food service systems management, dietetics or food science. Graduate degrees are also available for those who want to pursue a specialization, such as research, public health or education. Nutritionists take courses in biochemistry, statistics, nutrition and food, sociology and chemistry.
Licensure and Certifications
Laws vary from state when it comes to licenses, certifications and registrations. Nutritionists with a university degree and who expect to work at schools, hospitals or other institutions might need to pass a state exam in order to obtain the necessary permits. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 33 states require licensure, one state requires registration and 12 states require some form of statutory certification.
