How to Become a Dietitian in Pennsylvania

Dietitians may advise clients about the nutritional value of foods and supplements.

A dietitian is a professional who is trained and knowledgeable in the value of foods and nutrition. The title is sometimes loosely defined by those who practice in the field, which has prompted numerous states to enact laws regulating certification, registration and licensure of dietitians and nutritionists. Candidates who wish to be licensed as a dietitian-nutritionist in Pennsylvania must comply with provisions of the state's 2002 Professional Nursing Law.

Instructions

1. Graduate from high school. Pennsylvania's 2002 Professional Nursing Law includes provisions requiring candidates for the licensed dietitian-nutritionist credential to hold at least a bachelor's degree, and most colleges and universities require prospective students to have a high school diploma or educational equivalent for admission. The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics advises candidates to take college preparatory courses while in high school to include studies in mathematics, the humanities, English, communications, and the sciences, including biology, chemistry and natural science.

2. Earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university that has been approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. The degree must include a major in food and nutrition, dietetics, human nutrition or food system management.

3. Work in a field related to dietetics or nutrition. The Professional Nursing Law requires candidates for the licensed dietitian-nutritionist credential to gain at least 900 hours of pre-professional experience in dietetic practice as part of the educational process. The experience component must be approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

4. Pass a Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing approved qualifying examination. Candidates who sit for and pass the certifying examination required by the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association are awarded the Registered Dietitian credential. This examination also qualifies the candidate to apply for the licensed dietitian-nutritionist credential with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

Tips & Warnings

• Pennsylvania's 2002 Professional Nursing Law does not make the licensed dietitian-nutritionist credential mandatory, nor does it limit any dietitian's ability to practice in the state. Only those dietitians who qualify and are licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing may use the licensed dietitian-nutritionist credential after their name.

References

• Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing: Dietitian-Nutritionists
• The Pennsylvania Code: Qualifications for licensure
• Pennsylvania Dietetic Association: Licensure - Mandatory vs Non Mandatory
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Dietitians and Nutritionists

Resources

• American Dietetic Association
• Commission on Dietetic Registration