Becoming a dietitian requires a combination of education, training, and licensure. A dietitian, also known as a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), is a healthcare professional who specializes in the field of nutrition and dietetics. Dietitians work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practice, and community organizations, to provide nutrition counseling, develop meal plans, and promote healthy eating habits. To become a dietitian, one must complete a series of steps, which are outlined below.
Education and Training
To become a dietitian, one must first earn a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, such as food science, biology, or biochemistry. The degree program should be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). The program typically includes coursework in nutrition, biochemistry, physiology, and statistics, as well as supervised practice experiences in clinical, community, and food service settings. Some universities offer combined bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in nutrition, which can provide advanced training and prepare students for leadership roles in the field.
Accredited Programs
ACEND-accredited programs provide students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to become a competent dietitian. These programs include a minimum of 120 credits of coursework and 1,200 hours of supervised practice experiences. The programs are designed to prepare students for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam, which is required for licensure as a dietitian. Some examples of ACEND-accredited programs include:
| University | Program |
|---|---|
| University of Illinois | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition |
| University of California, Berkeley | Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences |
| University of Michigan | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics |
After completing the degree program, students must complete an internship program, which provides hands-on experience in clinical, community, and food service settings. The internship program is typically 6-12 months in length and provides students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
Internship Programs
Internship programs are designed to provide students with the practical experience necessary to become a competent dietitian. These programs are typically accredited by ACEND and provide students with the opportunity to work under the supervision of experienced dietitians. Some examples of internship programs include:
- University of Illinois Dietetic Internship Program
- University of California, Berkeley Dietetic Internship Program
- University of Michigan Dietetic Internship Program
Licensure and Certification
After completing the degree program and internship, students must pass the CDR exam to become a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). The CDR exam is a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge and skills in nutrition, biochemistry, physiology, and statistics. To maintain licensure, dietitians must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the Code of Professional Conduct.
Certification Options
In addition to the RD or RDN credential, dietitians can also obtain specialized certifications in areas such as pediatric nutrition, gerontological nutrition, or sports nutrition. These certifications demonstrate expertise and commitment to a particular area of practice. Some examples of certification options include:
- Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC)
- Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSPN)
- Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition (CSGN)
Dietitians can also obtain advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctoral degree, to pursue careers in research, education, or leadership.
What is the difference between a registered dietitian (RD) and a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN)?
+The terms "registered dietitian" (RD) and "registered dietitian nutritionist" (RDN) are often used interchangeably, but they refer to the same credential. The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) offers the RD and RDN credentials to individuals who have completed the necessary education, training, and experience requirements.
How long does it take to become a dietitian?
+The length of time it takes to become a dietitian varies depending on the individual's educational background and career goals. Typically, it takes 4-6 years to complete a bachelor's degree program in nutrition, followed by a 6-12 month internship program. After completing the degree program and internship, students must pass the CDR exam to become a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN).
What is the average salary for a dietitian?
+The average salary for a dietitian varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for dietitians was $61,900 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from $40,000 to over $90,000 per year, depending on the specific job and location.
In conclusion, becoming a dietitian requires a combination of education, training, and licensure. By completing a bachelor’s degree program in nutrition, internship program, and passing the CDR exam, individuals can become registered dietitians (RDs) or registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) and pursue careers in a variety of settings. With the increasing demand for healthcare professionals with expertise in nutrition and dietetics, becoming a dietitian can be a rewarding and challenging career path.
