Dietician

Description

Dieticians plan food and nutrition programs and supervise the preparation and serving of meals. They run food service systems for hospitals and schools. They also counsel groups and individuals on nutritional practices to promote good health and prevent disease. Some dieticians advise clients on diet-related concerns such as weight loss. Food manufacturers also hire dieticians to help analyze foods, prepare literature or report on nutritional issues.

Working Conditions

Dieticians work indoors and can be on their feet much of the day. Many dieticians work part time. Some may work weekends.

Salary

The middle 50 percent of dieticians earn between $28,000 and $42,700. Salary varied by practice area, such as clinical nutrition, food and nutrition management, community nutrition, consultation and business, and education and research. Salaries also vary by years in practice, educational level, geographic region and size of community.

Helpful Skills and Subjects to Study

Dieticians need to communicate well, both orally and in writing. Helpful courses include biology, chemistry, mathematics, health and communications.

Related Jobs

Jobs similar to management dieticians' include home economists and food service managers. Nurses and health educators often provide services related to those of community dieticians.

Education & Training

Dieticians need at least a bachelor's degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area.

Job Outlook

Increased emphasis on disease prevention by improved dietary habits, as well as an aging population, will cause the employment of dieticians to grow.

Sources for Additional Information

American Dietetic Association
216 West Jackson Blvd., Suite 800
Chicago, IL 0606-6995
www.eatright.org