According to OnlineNutritionDegree.org, diet and nutrition have been proven many times over to have a profound effect on the human body. Individuals who maintain a healthy diet over time lead overwhelmingly healthier lives on average and generally feel better about themselves than those who do not. As preventive medicine becomes a more prominent feature in comprehensive medical treatment, many individuals who previously ignored the effects of poor diet and nutrition are turning to trusted advisers for how to resume a healthy lifestyle. In fact, OnlineNutritionDegree.org points out that job prospects for nutritionists are expected to rise at a faster than average rate for at least several years to come. Obtaining a degree in this field from properly accredited institutions qualifies you to be the trusted adviser in these people's lives, allowing you to have a positive effect on the overall health of the community you work in.
When considering the vast array of degrees and institutions that are available to individuals with an interest in diet and nutrition, pay particular attention to opportunities you expect to have once the degree is in hand. An associate's degree may be sufficient for one person's aspirations in the field, but not yours. Conversely, a master's degree in diet and nutrition may be overkill for the individual with only a cursory interest in the subject. Determine the career path you want to take: You can expect a higher degree to come with more career options and higher pay, while a lesser degree will be completed more quickly. Different hiring institutions have different standards for the nutritionists they employ; if you envision working in a hospital as a nutrition adviser, contact local hospitals in your area to discover what level of education they expect from qualified candidates.
The decision to complete a degree online vs. in the classroom is a personal choice based on your learning style and lifestyle demands. AcademicInfo.net notes that the online degree offers email, video and web-based coursework in lieu of a traditional classroom experience, but most employers do not discriminate between online and traditionally obtained degrees. For some people with children, jobs or long commutes, an online degree may offer the flexibility to further a career without putting life on hold. Some, however, may need the structure and accountability of a traditional classroom arrangement. Before enrolling in any institution, consider your own strengths and scheduling needs to determine which suits you best. Because the degree earned carries the same weight and significance in either case, finding a solution to fit your specific needs is the only thing you need to consider.