|
Field Description
Dietitians promote health, prevent disease and shape the food choices
and dietary habits of patients and the public. They combine extensive
scientific knowledge of food, nutrition, biochemistry, physiology
and management with the behavioral and social sciences to perform
their work.
Dietitians work in clinical and community settings, performing
nutrition screenings and assessing patients’ needs. They also
provide counseling and regular follow-up to patients to reinforce
behavioral changes. Dietitians have a high level of contact with
patients and interact closely with physicians, residents, nurses
and allied health-care staff.
Dietitians also work in food service management, coordinating all
aspects of food service in both hospital and industry settings with
people of all ages, cultures and economic status. Those who enjoy
being with people and want to assist them in leading healthier lives
will find satisfaction in this field.
Choose a program:
Career Opportunities
Dietitians are employed in health care, education, research, business
and industry and private practice settings.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of
dietitians and nutritionists is expected to grow about as fast for the average for
all professions through the year 2014. Employment in hospitals is
expected to show little change. Faster growth is anticipated in
nursing homes, residential care facilities and physician clinics.
Clinical dietitians are a vital part of the medical team in hospitals,
nursing homes, health maintenance organizations and other health-care
facilities. They work with doctors, nurses and therapists to help
speed patients’ recovery and lay the groundwork for long-term
health. Opportunities for advancement are available by specializing
in a particular area of nutrition, such as diabetes or pediatrics.
Earning Potential
In 2007, registered dietitian salaries ranged from $42,000 to $65,000.
Salary levels vary with geographical location, scope of responsibility,
employment settings and supply of registered dietitians. Salary
also increases as experience increases and many registered dietitians,
particularly those in management, business and consulting, earn
incomes above $60,000.
Professional Organizations
Visit the following Web sites to learn more about dietetics:
|
