There are two official titles for people who fall under the category of a nutritional consultant. Dietitians normally have bachelor's degrees in nutrition, dietetics or some other science discipline, and often they have graduate degrees in nutrition or dietetics. They are registered by their state after taking and passing an exam. Nutritionists normally have bachelor's degrees or a certificate from an accredited organization. While some states have guidelines for who is officially referred to as a nutritionist, most do not.
Nutritional consultants may have degrees ranging from non-degree certificates to post-graduate degrees. Most major United States universities offer courses and degree programs in nutrition. Some offer programs for people who have bachelor's degrees in another science discipline. Agencies like the American Fitness Professionals and Associates offer non-degree certificates in nutrition and wellness. People with all of these levels of education can work in nutritional consulting on some level. Those with the highest levels of education may be able to work for hospitals, doctors or government agencies. Those with certificates may get work in the fitness field or for weigh loss, or other nutrition programs.
While there is no federal guideline for licensing as a nutritionist, registered dietitian is a term reserved for those licensed through the American Dietetic Association's Commission for Dietetic Registration. This agency regulates the requirements necessary for calling yourself a registered dietitian. There are different levels of certification from the American Dietetic Association dependent on level of education and experience. Forty-six states require licensing by the American Dietetic Association for a person to work as a dietitian. Registered dietitians generally are required to complete continuing education to maintain their licenses.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for nutrition consultants is expected to rise 9 percent from 2008 through 2018. Those with an advanced degree in nutrition and who pass licensing testing are qualified to work as consultants for hospitals and care centers, school districts and other government agencies. They may also go into business for themselves, providing individual nutritional consulting for clients, or they may work for an agency that provides this kind of service.