Types of Degrees in Nutrition

The two degrees in the field of nutrition are Registered Dietitian and Dietetic Technician. These credentials are legally protected titles that may only be used by dietetic practitioners who have been authorized by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE).

How to Become A Registered in Nutrition

To obtain the credentials of registered dietitian (RD), a student must obtain a bachelor's degree at an accredited college or university, complete the required curriculum and internship (900 hours of supervised practice) that is accredited by the CADE and pass a registration examination. A dietetic technician (DT) must obtain a minimum of a two-year associates degree at an accredited college or university, complete the required curriculum and pass the national DT registration examination. Both RD and DT degree holders are required to complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain registration.

Non Registered Options

Students attending a four-year college are able to obtain a bachelor's degree in the field of nutrition or a minor in nutrition that often complements their primary field of study such as medicine, athletics, food science or community health. Students attending two-year colleges may also get specialty certifications in nutrition, health and wellness or nutrition as a supplement to their primary field of study. Many individuals enjoy taking nutrition classes because they can apply the information to improving their own health and that of family members.

Questionable "Nutritionists"

There are also a variety of online and self-study by mail programs presumed to increase an individual's awareness of nutrition. These programs may or may not be sources of sound nutrition information. For example, a vitamin and mineral manufacture offers online certificates in holistic health care, master herbalist, and holistic chef certification for animals. These individuals are not able to use the legally protected credentials RD or DT. Furthermore, one should question whether the true intent of their certification is to educate or sell more vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements.

Registered Dietitian The Nutrition Resource

Unfortunately anyone can call themselves a "nutritionist" in many states since few legally regulate the term. This results in public skepticism as messages on healthy eating practices become diluted by people practicing nutrition without a license. It's best to look to the Registered Dietitian as the expert in the field of nutrition.

Nutrition Opportunities

As the definition of health care changes from one of treatment to that of prevention, the opportunities for the RD amd DT are endless. Individuals who have a passion for food, good nutrition and exercise are a good fit for this expanding field. While dietitians have traditionally served in clinical hospital roles, food service or community education, the field is expanding into exciting new areas. Dietitians are taking on very specialized roles including working as personal chefs, doing freelance writing, sports nutrition, treating food allergies and working in corporate wellness. The opportunities are endless and the rewards are great. All you need is a passion for nutrition science and a desire to educate people on how to live healthier lives through good nutrition and regular physical activity.

References

• To obtain the credentials of a registered dietitian (RD), a student must obtain a bachelor's degree at a US regionally accredited college or university, complete the required curriculum and internship (900 hours of supervised practice) that is accredited by the CADE and pass a registration examination. A dietetic technician (DT) must obtain a minimum of a two year associates degree at a US regionally accredited college or university, complete the required curriculum and pass the national DT registration examination. Both an RD and DT are required to complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain registration.