Overview:

Nutritionist/Dietitians are the point of contact for individuals that want to be advised on eating programs, healthy food selection, and the alteration of diets to achieve their nutrition and diet needs.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Complete initial patient nutrition related screenings and assessments
• Provide nutritional recommendations to patients and family members
• Coordinate planning, implementation and evaluation of individual nutrition programs
• Utilize safe and protective equipment
• Work with family physician and other medical staff to ensure quality patient care
• Council family members relating to nutritional concerns
• Modify menu for specialized diets for specific patients
• Answer patient questions after program is in place
• Provide education to other health care professionals in a workplace environment
• Research and keep up to date with new studies and nutritional recommendations for health conditions and diseases

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s degree in Dietetics, Food Science, or Nutrition.

To pursue a career as a Nutritionist/Dietitian:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, family and consumer sciences, chemistry and mathematics.

Typical Employers:

Typical employers include food production, food ingredient companies, restaurants, school, community and government groups.

Future Job Market/Outlook:

The future outlook for Nutritionist/Dietitians is projected to be good to excellent.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:

• American Dietetic Association
• American Nutrition Association
• National Association of Nutrition Professionals