Nutritionists and dietitians advise people on food choices and nutrition, but their credentials differ. While anyone can claim to be a nutritionist, a dietitian has specific certification and educational requirements. The choice between a nutritionist and registered dietitian depends on the needs of the individual or organization. Fundamental to both jobs are an understanding of the connection between food and health and an ability to communicate that understanding to others.
Job Descriptions
Nutritionists and dietitians plan meals and recommend dietary changes that can help people treat, prevent or control disease. Some dietitians and nutritionists work in facilities such as nursing homes, hospitals or schools to plan the appropriate foods for the individuals under their care. Others work in public health settings, helping devise nutritional policies or promote health and nutrition issues for government bodies or organizations. Another option for a dietitian or nutritionist is to go into private practice, counseling individuals on their dietary needs. Some dietitians and nutritionists work for food manufacturers, helping design products or marketing materials involving food and nutrition.
Training
Someone who wants to become a dietitian or nutritionist needs a bachelor's degree in nutrition, dietetics or a related area. States have different licensing requirements that range from requirements to pass a state-specific certification test, to merely registering with the state where the person intends to practice as a dietitian or nutritionist. The Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association offers independent certification that provides verification of a dietitian's qualifications. This qualification requires an appropriate degree and 900 hours of internship as a dietitian before taking the certification test. Anyone passing the test receives the title registered dietitian, or R.D. People who do not have this qualification cannot call themselves dietitians, only nutritionists.
Knowledge
The base courses for a dietitian or nutritionist include biology, chemistry, health, math and communications. Upper-level courses include specific classes on nutrition and food preparation. After obtaining a degree, the graduate typically has a good understanding of how digestion works, how foods and nutrients affect health, and how to tailor nutritional advice to individuals. Some dietitians and nutritionists also take courses in management or business to learn how to manage nutrition programs for companies or organizations.
Considerations
In most states, only an R.D. can work in a clinical setting such as a hospital, or see patients privately. Nutritionists without this qualification cannot do clinical work, but may be able to apply for a Ph.D. program in nutrition or work in a community relations or public health setting that does not require dispensing nutrition advice to individuals. The only way to determine the qualifications of a nutritionist or dietitian is to ask about her education, experience and certification.
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