How to Become a Registered Nutritionist

Nutritionists help people make healthy food choices. Whether this is for a private individual or for an entire hospital, nutritionists are tasked with helping cure and prevent disease and improve quality of life through food. People generally associate nutritionists with the weight-loss industry, but nutritionists do much more than design diets. For example, a nutritionist might help someone plan a way of eating that reduces cholesterol or helps lower blood pressure. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that there will be better than average job growth for nutritionists in the near future.

Instructions

1. Begin preparing in high school. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, future nutrition majors should plan a high school course load that includes "courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, health and communications." These classes will prepare you to study nutrition at the college level.

2. Attend a 4-year university program in nutrition at an accredited college or university. According to the Department of Labor, "nutritionists need at least a bachelor's degree" to be successful in the field. There are approximately 280 college nutrition programs that have received approval by the American Dietetic Association's Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (ADA; see Resources).

3. Become licensed. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there are currently only 35 states with laws governing the role of nutritionists. Some states require nutritionists to become licensed, and some don't. In any case, it's always a good idea to become licensed, as it can help further your career, strengthen your skills, advance at your current position and increase your salary (see Resources for information on your state's requirements).

4. Become registered. Registration is not required to practice, but it establishes you as an expert in your field. You can become a registered dietitian by completing the requirements set forth by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, part of the American Dietetic Association. You will be required to complete your college coursework, complete an internship and pass a written exam.

5. Pursue advanced study. There are currently 22 master's degree programs in nutrition in the United States. Being a registered nutritionist with a master's degree prepares you to manage or direct nutrition programs or to teach nutrition at the university level. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nutritionists with a master's degree enjoy increased pay and better opportunities for advancement.

References

• American Dietetic Association
• Commission on Dietetic Registration
• U.S. Department of Labor