How to Become a Dietitian depends on education and experience; there are many steps that you need to take to become as a dietitian. The first and arguably most crucial step is obtaining an undergraduate degree in nutrition or a related field, such as biology or chemistry. After completing your degree, you will typically need to get certified or registered through your state’s regulatory agency.
This generally involves passing an exam and having a certain number of years of experience under the supervision of a registered dietitian. Additionally, it is usually recommended that you complete a dietetic internship program where you can gain valuable hands-on experience working with clients.
Once all of these steps are completed, you can begin practicing as a dietitian and helping others achieve their health and fitness goals. So if you have a passion for food and nutrition, becoming a dietitian could be the perfect career!
How to Become a Dietitian
Dietitians specialize in the study of nutritional health. There are many ways to become a dietitian. The most common way is to get a four-year degree in nutrition from an accredited university. However, there are other ways to become a dietitian as well. Some people may become a dietitian by getting a degree in exercise science or biology.
Others may become dietitians by getting a degree in food and nutrition management. In addition, some programs offer dietetic internships. These internships allow people to work with registered dietitians and learn about the profession. After completing an apprenticeship, people can take the registration exam to become registered dietitians.
| Degree Level | Degree Level |
|---|---|
| Degree Field | Dietetics, foods and nutrition, clinical nutrition, food service systems management |
| Experience | 1 to 2 years of experience generally required |
| Licensure and Certification | Licensure or certification required in most states; other voluntary certifications available |
| Key Skills | Problem solving, communication, organizational skills, and compassion |
| Salary | $57,910 (2015 median annual salary for all dietitians and nutritionists) |
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Many different paths can lead to becoming a dietitian. However, the most common way is to earn a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, food science, or a related field.
After completing a degree program, you must complete an accredited dietetic internship and pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam. Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) that the Accreditation Council for Education accredits in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Other relevant majors include foods and nutrition, food service management, and clinical nutrition.
Complete an Internship
dietitians have a few avenues they can explore to complete their training. Dietetic internships are one of the most common ways to become a registered dietitian. These internships allow aspiring dietitians to receive supervised training in dietetics, such as clinical, community nutrition, food service management, and more. Dietetic internships can be completed through universities, hospitals, or private companies.
- Completing an internship is a critical step in becoming a registered dietitian. Dietetic internships offer students the opportunity to learn about the profession while working with registered dietitians.
- Internships can be completed in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practice.
- Interns typically work under the supervision of a registered dietitian and complete rotations in different areas of dietetics.
- The internship experience allows students to apply what they have learned in school and develop their professional skills.
- Internships are a great way to network with professionals and learn about different career options.
- To be eligible for an internship, students must have completed an accredited bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics.
Become Licensed or Certified
There are many different routes you can take to become a dietitian. The most common path is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, followed by a dietetic internship and then pass the Registered Dietitian (RD) exam. However, there are other ways to become a dietitian.
Some states offer licensure for dietitians, which allows you to practice without completing an internship. Alternatively, you can become certified as a Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) or as a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE). Each route has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to research which option is best for you.
Consider Specialty Certification
Are you passionate about nutrition? Do you want to help people achieve their health and wellness goals? If so, consider becoming a dietitian. Dietitians are nutrition experts, and they help people make healthy food choices. They also counsel people on eating correctly to meet their individual needs.
There are several ways to become a dietitian. One way is to earn a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics. Another way is to make a degree in another field and then complete a dietetic internship. The third way is to earn a graduate degree in nutrition or dietetics.
Once you have completed your education, you will need to become certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). To do this, you will need to pass an exam. Once you are certified, you can start working as a dietitian.
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