A degree in dietetics can help you build a career in health and nutrition. You’ll learn how to use food as a tool to improve the health of individuals, groups and communities. You can earn your degree in a variety of different ways, from an online associate’s to a master’s.
Bachelor’s degrees in dietetics are available from universities and colleges across the country. These programs often offer a combination of hands-on practice and classroom study. Some of these programs may also prepare you for a dietetic internship.
This four-year, 120-credit program provides a solid foundation in the basic liberal arts and science education as well as the knowledge needed to understand the field of nutrition. Students are exposed to the scientific study of food, diet and wellness, with courses in biology, chemistry and statistics. They also take courses in subjects such as normal nutrition, medical nutrition therapy and food service management, as well as community and institutional food service operations.
These undergraduate degrees also help you develop the skills and understanding necessary to apply for a dietetic internship, which will lead to your eligibility for a Registered Dietitian credential. These supervised experiences can be completed in hospitals, private practices, universities, food and pharmaceutical companies, public health agencies and more.
You’ll gain the critical thinking and research skills needed to work as a dietitian, clinical nutritionist, or other allied health professional in the field. You’ll also learn about global health, community nutrition and public policy.
The program is designed to be flexible, so you can pursue your education at a pace that works best for you. In addition, many of these programs are offered entirely online, making them a viable option for students with busy schedules and families.
Master’s degrees in dietetics are a popular option for those who want to further their studies and become dietitians. These graduate programs generally take two years to complete and are available online. Some of these programs are designed for students who want to specialize in a certain area, such as women’s health, diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
A graduate degree in dietetics can also be a good choice for those who want to start their own business in the health and nutrition field. They can provide a range of services, from consulting and menu development to meal planning and cooking classes.
RDs and nutritionists are often a fixture in restaurants, working to ensure their customers’ satisfaction and the restaurant’s bottom line. They can also help restaurants create new menu items to suit dietary preferences, such as vegan or gluten-free dishes.
They can also conduct nutritional research on foods and their effects on the human body. Besides serving as a health care professional, RDs are often role models in their communities and can play an important role in promoting healthy lifestyles and diets.
Some RDs work in hospitals and clinics, ensuring patients have access to the proper foods for their health needs. They also help patients with chronic illnesses and diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. They might also advise patients on weight loss, eating disorders or other problems.
