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Nutritionists Growing in Number
Nutrition Jobs, School & Career Guide
Find Nutrition Schools | Nutrition Degree Training and Career Guide
| | "If the doctors of today do not become the nutritionists of tomorrow, then the nutritionists of today will become the doctors of tomorrow." ~ Rockefeller Institute of Medicine |
The United States has also experienced a crisis in health over the past decade, with a critical obesity problem, increasing levels of diabetes, heart disease and other health-related conditions. When you go to a doctor these days, a dietitian or nutritionist is often recommended. Many people with a family history of these problems are seeking advice and help from nutritionists in order to protect their health. "Wellness maintenance" and "disease prevention" are just a few of the buzzwords currently circulating, and nutritionists are in demand as a result.
Nutritionist or Dietitian Job Overview
Dietitian and nutritionists work with patients and clients in a number of different ways. Here are some of the main nutritionist and dietitian responsibilities:
- Evaluating patient health
- Planning food and nutrition programs for promoting healthy eating habits
- Suggesting ways clients can improve their health by modifying diet and exercise routines
- Working with athletes to improve their fitness nutrition and performance
Dietitians usually work in institutions such as hospitals and schools, overseeing food programs to promote sound eating habits and health for recovering patients and children. Major areas of practice include clinical, community, management and consultant dietetics.
Nutritionist or Dietitian Licensure
In most states, a license is required to practice as a nutritionist or dietitian. In fact, 35 of the 46 states with laws governing the field of dietetics require licensure. Twelve states require certification, and one requires registration—a lower level of qualification. The Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association (ADA) awards the Registered Dietitian credential to those who pass a certification exam after completing their academic coursework and supervised experience.
Nutritionist or Dietitian Job Outlook
Choosing nutrition jobs is a good career move right now, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These jobs are expected to grow by 9 percent by 2016, from 57,000 currently to around 62,000.
Salaries range for nutrition jobs from $42,000 to $63,000, with a median income of $52,150, according to the latest statistics from May 2009. The higher salaries will go to nutritionists with advanced degrees such as a master's degree in nutrition, and jobs at outpatient care centers and general and surgical hospitals will pay the most, at about $52,000 to $55,000.
It's a great time to become a nutritionist or dietitian, whether in private practice or in the mainstream health care industry. A career in nutrition is a rewarding way to be involved and positively contribute to the health and well being of your community. Start your search for nutrition schools today!
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2009
About.com, 2008
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