DIETITIAN
Dietitians (also referred
to as nutritionists) teach and counsel about basic nutrition and diet modifications
that can prevent or correct health problems. They plan and supervise meal
preparations in hospitals, schools, restaurants or other public and private
institutions. Administrative duties would include purchasing, quality assurance
and managing personnel.
Education
Registered dietitians must complete
an accredited program of study approved by The American Dietetic Association
at the undergraduate level. They must also participate in an approved supervised
practice component. There are two pathways to becoming a registered dietitian.
One pathway is a Coordinated Program in Dietetics and either a Dietetic
Internship or a Preprofessional Practice Program. The second pathway is
a Didactic Program in Dietetics and either a Dietetic Internship or a Preprofessional
Practice Program.
Registration/Certification/Licensure
Registered dietitians must pass
the Registration Examination for Dietitians. Dietitians are licensed and
nutritionists certified by the Kentucky Board of Licensure and Certification
for Dietitians and Nutritionists.
A nutritionist may become
a registered or licensed dietitian. Some registered dietitians hold additional
certificates in specialized areas of practice, such as pediatric nutrition,
renal nutrition and diabetes education. These certificates are awarded
through the Commission on Dietetic Registration and/or other medical and
nutrition organizations.
Salary
$25,000-50,000
Employment Opportunities
Dietitians may work in hospitals,
nursing homes, restaurants, public health departments, public schools,
health clubs and private practice, as well as in food manufacturing, advertising,
marketing and research.
Coordinated Programs in Dietetics
Didactic Programs In
Dietetics
Dietetic Internships
Preprofessional Practice
Programs
Professional Association
American
Dietetic Association
216 West Jackson Boulevard,
Suite 800
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
(800) 877-1600
Last updated: May 30, 2001