A degree in dietetics focuses on educating students about how the human body works and how nutrition affects health. It is a science-based field, and students typically earn a bachelor’s degree and pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam to become registered dietitians or registered dietitian nutritionists.
A four-year, 120-credit program offers a strong education in nutrition and science as well as an understanding of the social, cultural and economic issues surrounding food and eating. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in dietetics can pursue careers as dietitians, nutritional consultants, food service managers, wellness specialists and community counselors.
Coursework covers biology, chemistry and a wide range of subjects that include normal nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, institutional food service management and consumer science. These courses explore the biological, cellular and genetic components of an organism as well as how the human body is affected by physical activity, environmental factors and social influences.
The read more curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) examination and a career in dietetics, a rewarding field where nutritionists can help people live longer, healthier lives. It also includes coursework that teaches about the role of a dietetics professional and how to be successful in this profession.
During the program, students complete three Supervised Experiential Learning (SEL) courses that provide hands-on training in culinary and food service operations, community, and clinical settings. SEL courses are integrated with concurrent classroom-based coursework to translate knowledge into practice.
In addition to the SEL courses, students are required to complete an ACEND-accredited, supervised dietetic internship in conjunction with their degree. This can be completed through the Individual Supervised Practice Pathway, a Coordinated Programopen_in_new, or another program involving the completion of an internship in addition to graduate coursework.
As a dietetics student, you will work closely with a mentor to develop your skills and learn how to apply them in the real world. You’ll gain the ability to communicate effectively with patients, families and other stakeholders, and you will learn to apply your nutrition knowledge to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease.
You will be provided with the knowledge, resources and support needed to become a dietitian in the United States. You’ll also learn how to use research and data to advance the field and improve the quality of life for your clients.
Those who hold a master’s degree in dietetics can enjoy higher salaries than those with bachelor’s degrees. According to PayScale, dieticians with master’s degrees can earn an average of $300 more per week than those without the degree.
An entry-level master’s degree in clinical nutrition* teaches the scientific and critical thinking skills essential to clinical practice, management, research and leadership. It also prepares graduates to become role models in their communities. The program emphasizes the functional approach to health promotion, disease prevention and intervention, focusing on the unique needs of individuals.
As of January 1, 2024, a minimum of a master’s degree is necessary to take the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) national exam and become a registered dietitian. This change is significant for those who plan to enter the field as new professionals.