AHEC Connecticut
DIETETICS & NUTRITION - Nutritionist
To be a successful Nutritionist you should...
- be interested in the relationship between nutrition and health
- want the opportunity to help others
- want to be a part of the health care team
- like a diverse work environment
- be interested in food, health promotion, disease prevention, and health care
- have good communication skills
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What will my job be like?
Nutritionists promote health and the prevention of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension among groups and communities, through good food habits. Nutritionists carry out research and educational programs to help individuals, groups, and entire communities reduce their health risks through nutrition programs. Most nutritionists are also registered dietitians (RDs) with advanced education and/or experience.
Where could I work?
Nutritionists work for international, federal, state and local health agencies (such as public health departments), educational settings, sports programs, and food/health-related industries.
What is the average annual salary?
$47,200
What is the future of this career?
Employment of nutritionists is expected to grow about as fast as the average through 2014, due to increased emphasis on disease prevention by improved dietary habits.
What type of education and/or training do I need?
Nutritionists should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program.
Where can I get the education and/or training?
- University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport
- University of Connecticut–Nutritional Sciences, Storrs
Do I need a license or certification for this career?
Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut. Prerequisite: Current certification as a Registered Dietitian by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) or have taken CDR's Registration Examination for Dietitians and hold an acceptable master's or doctoral degree primarily focused on human nutrition or dietetics.
Where can I get more information?
American Dietetic Association
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000
Chicago, IL 60606
(800) 877-1600
www.eatright.org