A bachelor's degree in dietetics requires an emphasis on coursework in the natural sciences; including biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology and human nutrition. A bachelor's degree in dietetics usually takes four years to complete. If you hold a bachelor's degree in dietetics, you may refer to yourself as a "nutritionist". Earning this degree will allow you to become a licensed professional dietitian and earn the professional designation "RD".
A bachelor's degree in foods and nutrition offers another path to becoming a licensed professional dietitian and adding the professional designation "RD" to your business card. Similarly to dietetics degrees, bachelor's degrees in food and nutrition require a great deal of coursework in the biological sciences. You will need to take biochemistry, microbiology, and anatomy & physiology as well as courses in food production and manufacturing. Four years is usually required to complete a bachelor's degree in foods and nutrition. and it is common for graduates to call themselves nutritionists.
Although it may be a longer route to becoming a nutritionist or dietitian, you can launch a career in nutrition with a bachelor's degree in other areas. If you hold a bachelor's degree in a discipline other than nutrition, the American Dietetic Association suggests that you should have your college transcript evaluated by the director any of dietetics programs you are considering and have him identify the additional coursework you need to complete in order to have a professional career as a nutritionist or dietitian.
If you have your sights set on a career in research or if you already hold a bachelor's degree in another discipline, a graduate degree in nutrition may be the right choice for you. Some institutions offer master's or doctoral degrees in human nutrition, dietetics, and food science. Completing a graduate degree can give your career a boost and offer opportunities to specialize in areas such as pediatrics.
Although anyone who holds a degree and works in a nutrition-related field can refer to himself as a nutritionist, professional licensing is preferable. In order to receive the designation "RD" and work in many settings, you must do the following:
Complete a bachelor's degree or higher with coursework approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association (ADA).
Complete an internship as part of your degree. Most internships last six to 12 months.
Pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
Complete professional continuing educational requirements throughout your career in order to maintain licensure.