Registered dietitians perform nutritional analysis and food planning functions in varied environments. They create hospital patients' food plans and design school system menus to meet students' nutritional needs. Some health clubs retain dietitians to provide members with food and dieting guidance, and sports team dietitians help athletes enhance individual performance. Registered dietitians frequently establish private consulting practices, while others provide professional guidance to grocery chains or food manufacturing companies. A registered dietitian credential requires a defined program of study and a recognized standard of evaluation.
Step 1
Fulfill your educational requirements. Complete an American Dietetics Association (ADA)-approved program of study. The ADA sets and maintains registered dietitian professional standards. Prepare for a bachelor's degree program that includes courses in human physiology, nutritional science, biochemistry and food service planning. Plan for business-focused courses as well.
Step 2
Complete your internship requirements. Satisfy the necessary internship component of all ADA-approved registered dietitian programs. Some state certifications may also require an internship segment. Professionally-supervised internship programs commonly last for six months to one year, and include extensive patient clinical work. Identify your registered dietitian career path, and seek an internship with the best introduction to that subspecialty. Maintain high academic standards to prepare for an increasingly competitive internship environment.
Step 3
Take the ADA's registered dietitian certification exam. You may take it after completing your academic and internship requirements. Verify certification criteria for the state in which you plan to practice. Plan to compile 75 or more approved continuing education credit hours within the five years after your initial ADA certification. Completing this educational requirement helps retain your registered dietitian status.
Step 4
Accumulate volunteer dietitian experience. Volunteer at a nonprofit or community-based facility to strengthen your resume and provide your community with valuable nutritional assistance. Consider volunteering at a women's shelter, senior center or social services agency. Gain real-world experience that may widen your professional network and provide an entree to a new career.
Things You'll Need
- List of bachelor's degree nutrition and dietetics programs
- State certification and internship requirements
- List of potential internship opportunities
- Registered dietitian exam study materials
- List of local non-profit and community-based volunteer opportunities
References
- West Chester University of Pennsylvania: The Nutrition and Dietetics Program; What Is a Registered Dietitian?
- American Dietetic Association: What Is a Registered Dietitian?
- Nutritionist-World: Dietician Internships
- United States Bureau of Labor Statistics; Occupational Outlook Handbook: 2010-11 Edition; Dietitians and Nutritionists; April 2010
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