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Dietician and Nutritionalist
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“Is That Healthy?”
Dietitians and nutritionists plan food and nutrition programs, and supervise the preparation and serving of meals. They help prevent and treat illnesses by promoting healthy eating.
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Average Pay: $50,900 Qualifications: BS. Degree
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The Job
Dietitians and nutritionists plan food and nutrition programs, supervise meal preparation, and oversee the serving of meals. They prevent and treat illnesses by promoting healthy eating habits and recommending dietary modifications. For example, dietitians might teach a patient with high blood pressure how to use less salt when preparing meals, or create a diet reduced in fat and sugar for an overweight patient. Dietitians manage food service systems for institutions such as hospitals and schools, promote sound eating habits through education, and conduct research. Many dietitians specialize, becoming a clinical dietitian, community dietitian, management dietitian, or consultant. Clinical dietitians provide nutritional services to patients in hospitals, nursing care facilities, and other institutions. Community dietitians counsel individuals and groups on nutritional practices designed to prevent disease and promote health. Management dietitians oversee large-scale meal planning and preparation in health care facilities, company cafeterias, prisons, and schools. They hire, train, and direct other dietitians and food service workers; budget for and purchase food, equipment, and supplies; enforce sanitary and safety regulations; and prepare records and reports.
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Work Environment
health care facilities, company cafeterias, prisons, schools, hospitals and nursing homes
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College Majors
dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area.
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Minimum Qualifications
Dietitians and nutritionists need at least a bachelor's degree. License, certification, or registration requirements vary by State.
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Personality traits helpful for this career
The desire to help others. Interest in health and wellness.
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Quick Facts
- Increased public interest in nutrition has led to job opportunities in food manufacturing, advertising, and marketing.
- More Info: The American Dietetic Association, Internet: http://www.eatright.org
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Compensation and Outlook
Median annual wages of dietitians and nutritionists were $50,590 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $41,060 and $61,790. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,460, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $73,410.
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