How to Be a Nutritionist

A nutritionist studies the science of food and nutrition and their effect on the body. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that nutritionists' career opportunities will increase due to Americans becoming more aware of how their diets affect their health. Here are a few tips on how to get you started in this career.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Talk to dietitians and nutritionists about their jobs. Ask them what they like and dislike about their career choice. Ask them for suggestions to help you get started.

2. Research four-year accredited nutrition degree programs. This program is similar to a premedical program, including biology, health, mathematics and communication. Often, a four-year program can turn into a five-year program when the internship is included.

3. Investigate the requirements in your state for becoming a nutritionist. Most states require certification and/or a license. Your school should be able to give you information on the requirements you need to practice in your state of choice.

4. Complete your coursework after you've selected a program. Many colleges offer classes on campus and online.

5. Finish a supervised, nine-month internship, and take your required exams for certification.

6. Begin looking for permanent employment. Most nutritionists work in hospitals, doctors' offices or hotels, schools or restaurants.

7. Consider expanding your career by studying exercise physiology.

Tips & Warnings

• The Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association (ADA) gives credentials to those who complete the coursework, complete an internship and pass the exam.
• To obtain an exercise physiology degree could take another 3 years.

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