Watch this video about becoming a dietician/nutritionist. Then read on for more information about becoming a dietician or nutritionist in Austin.
To work as a dietitian, you must:
■ have a bachelor's degree;
■ take approved coursework for dietitians;
■ complete a practicum; and
■ pass an exam to become a registered dietitian.
Formal Education
Dietitians need a bachelor's degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, or food services management. In these programs, you study foods, nutrition, and food service. You also learn about biology, physiology, and chemistry.
On-the-job Training
To be a registered dietitian, you must complete a supervised internship. In an internship, you work at a health care facility, an agency, or a food service company. An experienced dietitian supervises your work.
Many states require that dietitians have a license. To get a license you also must complete a supervised internship. The length of an internship varies by state. It may last from six months to two years.
Military Training
The military does not offer training in this field. However, the Army and Air Force offer internships in dietetics that are approved by the American Dietetic Association.
Hiring Practices Twenty-seven states require that dietitians be licensed. In these states, employers can hire only licensed dietitians. Fourteen states require that dietitians be certified or registered. This means that only dietitians who meet certain requirements can use the term "registered dietitian." It is possible to work in these states without a certificate or registration.
For information about the Registered Dietitian (RD) credential, contact:
Commission on Dietetic Registration
216 West Jackson Boulevard , 8th Floor
Chicago , IL 60606-6995
Phone: 312.899.0040
http://www.cdrnet.org
Nationally, about 48,700 dietitians work in this small occupation.
Major employers ■ Hospitals
■ Nursing homes
■ Doctors' offices
■ Federal, state, and local government agencies
Nationally, the number of jobs for dietitians is expected to grow as fast as average through the year 2010.
The need for dietitians is expected to increase since people are paying more attention to their eating habits. In addition, the growing population of elderly people will have an effect. Nursing homes, home health agencies, and other groups that work with the elderly will all need dietitians. Job openings will also result from replacing workers who leave the field.
The number of jobs for dietitians in hospitals is expected to grow slowly. Fewer patients are spending the night in hospitals so there is less demand for food. In addition, many hospitals contract out their food service so they do not need dietitians on staff. Employment may also be limited because other workers may substitute for nutritionists. For example, nurses, health educators, and dietetic technicians all could fill in for dietitians.
Advancement Opportunities Experienced dietitians may move into management positions. They may also start their own businesses.
Content provided by the Minnesota Board of Education
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