Dietician
Education required for this profession
Becoming a dietitian or nutritionist usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area. Graduate degrees also are available. College students in these majors take courses in foods, nutrition, institution management, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, and physiology. Other suggested courses include business, mathematics, statistics, computer science, psychology, sociology, and economics. High school students interested in becoming a dietitian or nutritionist should take courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, health, and communications.
Relevant Degree/Diploma/Certificatebachelor’s degree in dietetics
Quick Facts
Most jobs are in hospitals, nursing care facilities, outpatient care centers, and offices of physicians or other health practitioners.
Dietitians and nutritionists need at least a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area; licensure, certification, or registration requirements vary by State.
Employment is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations; however, growth may be constrained if employers substitute other workers for dietitians and if limitations are placed on insurance reimbursement for dietetic services.
Good job opportunities are expected.
SalaryMedian annual earnings of dietitians and nutritionists are $46,980 . The middle 50 percent earn between $38,430 and $57,090. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $29,860, and the highest 10 percent earn more than $68,330.