Dieticians develop healthy eating plans for both individuals and entire institutions.
Dietitians are trained in nutrition science to work both one-one-one with individuals and to oversee food service programs at hospitals or other institutions. In addition to working with those that want to adopt a healthier lifestyle, dietitians also provide guidance to individuals who have specific nutritional needs. For example, they may work with diabetic patients to develop an eating plan that supports management of the disease. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2009 wage data, dietitians can expect to earn an average annual salary of between $49,000 and $54,000.
Instructions
1. Find out your state's requirements for dietitians by visiting the website of or contacting the state's board of dietetics or nutrition.
2. Find a four-year college or university in your area that offers a bachelor program in nutrition, dietetics or food systems management. Use the American Dietetic Association (ADA) website to search for programs accredited by the association's Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
3. Complete program coursework in nutrition, food science, biology, physiology, and health sciences. Expect to take courses in statistics, business and the behavioral sciences as well, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
4. Participate in a 1,200-hour ADA-accredited dietetic internship if you did not complete at least 900 hours of supervised practice during your academic program at a four-year institution. Find accredited internship opportunities in your area on the ADA's website.
5. Apply to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Submit the exam application and fee online on the CDR website or complete the paper version included in the examination handbook. Mail paper applications and the fee in the form of a money order or check to:
Dietitian Registration (84)
ACT
PO Box 168
Iowa City, IA 52243
6. Register to take the registration exam at an ACT Center. The CDR will provide you with testing locations nationwide once your application is approved.
7. Prepare for the exam by studying the exam contents outlined in the CDR handbook; topics include nutrition science, counseling, research, management and food service systems according to the handbook.
8. Take the Registration Examination for Dietitians at an ACT Center. Bring your CDR authorization letter and a current government-issued ID such as a driver's license, state identification card or passport.
9. Complete any additional registration requirements mandated by your state's dietetic board.
10. Maintain your registered dietitian status by reporting to the CDR your completion of 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) every five years. Find approved courses and programs for dietitians by searching the CDR's online continuing education database.
Tags: Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Commission Dietetic, Commission Dietetic Registration, Dietetic Registration, Examination Dietitians
