HEALTHCARE IS THE ULTIMATE PEOPLE BUSINESS.
Dietitians are professionals who work in a wide variety of settings to improve health through the use of food and/or nutritional supplementation. They work with groups, or one-on-one, in large facilities, in small practices, or even remotely through the use of the internet.
Dietitians make a direct impact on the wellness of others in a way that is fun and rewarding. Here’s what you should know.
The field for dietitians is growing at a rate of 14%, faster than national average for all jobs. Many specific populations have the greatest need. Dietitians work:
Dietitians can choose to work with a wide variety of needs and conditions, or specialize in the care of specific populations. They can work in large facilities, teach educational classes, lead group support groups, or counsel clients on an individual basis in a private practice. Becoming a registered dietitian means choosing a profession where your career can evolve and change as your own interests do, without stagnation.
It seems almost anyone these days wants to call themselves a “nutritionist.” There is so much conflicting health and food information on the internet that many clients will come in completely confused, or doing what they think are the “right” things. They are in fact doing more harm than good.
A registered dietitian (RD) position is different. It requires specific educational and certification requirements. When you become an RD you understand the science of food, the needs of many different conditions, and gain the experience needed to counsel clients and help them sort through their food-related confusions. RDs, then, can play a crucial part in the attainment of and maintenance of health.
Becoming a dietitian requires at least a bachelor’s degree. The most direct path toward becoming a registered dietitian (RD) is:
If you have completed a bachelor’s degree in a related field (such as biology, health sciences, or nutrition), or if you wish to obtain a higher degree, it is also possible to go back to school to get a master’s degree in dietetics. Then, you may become certified and work as a registered dietitian.
Accredited programs come in many forms, at community colleges, state or private schools, classroom-only, online, or combined classroom/online formats, on a full-time or a part-time basis. If your goal is to become a registered dietitian, an accredited program can work with you to look at your prior education and experience and determine what will be needed to complete the educational steps to work in this interesting and rewarding field.
Salaries for RDs vary greatly, depending on educational level, experience, job requirements and job location, among other factors. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national average salary of $28.33 per hour, or $58,920 per year.
If you are considering changing careers and working as a dietitian, or if you are a dietitian looking to find your ideal employment fit, contact us. We can help you start in a new direction!
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