Dietician
Summary of profession
Dietitians specialize in the study of nutritional health. They make recommendations on what a person should eat to achieve a health-related goal or to live a healthier lifestyle. Dietitians are responsible for accessing a patient's health needs and diet limitations, helping clients manage or prevent certain
diseases through proper diet and developing and evaluating meal plans.
Working hours, patterns and environments
Dietitians typically work full-time in establishments, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and schools. Hours could vary depending on clients’ schedules.
Education and skills
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement needed to work as a licensed or certified dietitian. Other relevant majors include foods and nutrition, food service management and clinical nutrition.
Job growth and opportunities
The employment of dietitians and nutritionists is projected to increase by over 16 percent from the year 2014 to 2024. This projected growth is much faster than the average growth for all occupations. The role of food in preventing and treating illnesses, such as diabetes, is now well known.